Meliteo Kinidio vs Havanese - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Meliteo Kinidio is originated from Greece but Havanese is originated from Cuba. Both Meliteo Kinidio and Havanese are having almost same height. Both Meliteo Kinidio and Havanese are having almost same weight. Both Meliteo Kinidio and Havanese has almost same life span. Both Meliteo Kinidio and Havanese has almost same litter size. Meliteo Kinidio requires Low maintenance. But Havanese requires High maintenance

History

Originating in Greece, the Melitea Kinidio is also known as the Small Greek Domestic Dog. It is an ancient dog breed. The dog has always been a skillful hunter of small game and birds.

It is believed that the dog breed originated from Malta, explaining its Greek name, Melitaion Kunidion.

There are efforts to recognize the Meliteo Kinidio as a separate and unique Greek dog breed but no formal breed clubs exist so far today. The dog also hasn’t been recognized by any reputable registry. Today these common dogs are found in high numbers throughout most of Greece.  

havanese - historyThe only breed of dog that is native to Cuba is the Havanese. These little dogs are great companion animals. Sociable and happy, they are very popular in the United States with urbanites. These happy little pups are a Bichon type of dog which was developed from the “Little White Dog of Havana” or the Blanquito de la Habana which is now extinct.

The Blanquito de la Habana was itself developed from another extinct breed the Bichon Tenerife. Then the Blanquito was bred with the other Bichons and poodles in developing the Havanese. It is believed that some of the first people to settle in Cuba were from Tenerife, an island close to Cuba. In the early part of the sixteenth century, little white dogs were brought to Cuba with these settlers. This dog of Tenerife is believed to be the ancestor of all Bichon breeds.

At that time trade with Cuba was highly restricted by the Spanish and so these dogs developed without any crossing from other breeds from outside the country. They grew to be able to stand hot temperatures and they grew a very unique coat – almost like silk. Their coat is soft and light, while insulating them from the tropical environment.

At this time Cuba was the place to be for Europeans aristocrats on vacation. Unlike the British colonies, Cuba had theatres, operas and palacious. When going back to Europe, many took this little white dog with them to France, Spain and England. The Dog of Havannah was a favorite on European soil as well. Many of these dogs taken to Europe were fawn or parti instead of white. Meanwhile back in Cuba, the bourgeoisie were replacing the aristocracy who themselves would soon be replaced by the Revolution.

During the days of the bourgeoisie, the Havanese became very popular household pets. The breed has been a family pet for the last 150 years. At the same time the breed was very trendy in Europe with Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria owning several. They were by now familiar participants in Europe’s dog shows. Finally, with the Revolution, the bourgeoisie left the country in droves with their little white dogs. A genetic pool was then formed in the US. Gene pool from 11 dogs. All the Havanese in the world are descended from those 11 dogs with the exception of the dogs isolated in Cuba and the US. Today the Havanese is one of the most popular and fastest growing breeds in the world.

Description

The Meliteo Kinidio is a deep chested small sized dog which weighs about 3 to 8kg and stands at about 23 – 32cm in height.

The dog has a bright, fox shaped face, floppy ears and a tail which curls over the back and which is feathery or plumed. The body is longer than being tall.

He is available with two coat types – long- and short-haired, with the long haired one being the more common of the two. People often confuse this dog with the long-haired Dachshund. The coat is dense, weatherproof, silky and wavy.

The coat colors can be beige, blonde, white or black, with there being no standardization with color.

Temperament:

These Greek dogs are no pushover and in fact they are fairly fearless dogs, possessive of the human family, wanting to protect them and therefore being territorial as well. They make excellent pets, being very sensitive to their owners, sensing their different moods.

He has always been a hunting dog so he loves to be busy, making a good dog to have on the farm. They are even tempered and gentle, but have a loud, robust bark for their size.

havanese puppy - descriptionThe Havanese is a sturdy little dog, a member of the toy group. They weigh no more than 16 pounds (7.3kg) and his body is longer than it is tall. The breed has a unique topline that is not level, but it is straight. His front legs are longer than his hind legs producing the lively gait everyone is used to seeing with a Havanese. With a full muzzle that tapers to the nose, the Havanese does not seem to be short. The skull’s length is the same as the muzzle’s. The head of the Havanese is round in the back and flat in the front.

They have a deep chest, almond shaped eyes that are dark brown and their ears are about halfway down the nose. The long ears hang down the side od the face. They have a long plumed tail that is held high and upward. The standard for the breed and now the laws of the United Kingdom state that there can be no docking of the tail.

Characteristics

These feisty Small Greek Domestic Dogs are loving, loyal dogs who enjoy being around their human family but who don’t mind spending some time on their own either.

They’re dogs which are in tune with their owners and they’re intelligent too so they learn easily. You can expect to a have a good friend when you allow this companion dog into your home.

Children friendliness

havanese dog - characteristicsHavanese are highly intelligent and eager to please, and they are easily trained so long as you use only positive methods. This can be a sensitive breed, so care must be taken to not scold them harshly. Socialization from an early age is very important. Expose them calmly to a wide variety of new places and new people, always ensuring that the experiences are positive and not intimidating. Gentle, patient training will result in a wonderful companion dog. They are affectionate with people and get along with other nonaggressive pets.

Special talents

The Havanese is the consummate lap dog. Over time they have become the lovable family companion.

Adaptability

The breed is pretty adaptable being able to live as a companion animal in almost any setting. Just don’t expect your Havanese to go hiking or romp with you on 40 acres in the country.

Learning

They are intelligent, love to learn but can be a little stubborn. Train them early as they like their habits and its much harder to train an older Havanese.

Health Problems

This dog breed enjoys good longevity and can live to be about 12 to 15 years of age with good care.

One thing you have to be careful of with a dog like this is that because he is active he loves to running around and jumping. However, with his long back, jumping off a fairly high bed for instance, can lead to injury and should be discouraged rather. Apart from ear infections, other health issues can be dental.

Dental Issues:

Brushing your dog’s teeth 2 or 3 times a week can prevent dental problems. Small dogs are more prone to plaque formation and gum recession. Many small dogs loose their teeth with dental issues. Plaque that is left on the surface of the tooth is detrimental to the dog’s immune system, starting an inflammatory response. Without good oral hygiene, other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes can become a factor.

Ear Infections:

Ear infections in dogs, particularly those with floppy ears, are common and can be painful.

Scratching at the ear with head shaking is a common sign that your dog has an ear infection as well as the presence of redness and swelling. The inside of the ear needs to be gently cleaned with ear cleanser, but many people don’t like to do this, fearing they may damage the ear. Then it becomes important for your vet or professional groomer to do it for you.

havanese puppies - health problemsA very healthy breed, the Havanese doesn’t have a lot of health issues, but they are not immune to the problems of small breed dogs. The issues they do have are:

  1. Luxating Patella – can result in arthritis or lameness
  2. Liver Disease – could be fatal
  3. Heart Disease – could be fatal
  4. Cataracts – can be discomforting by will not cause total blindness
  5. Retinal Dysplasia – this eye disease is more serious than the cataracts but is also non-progressive and is caused by a viral infection.
  6. Hip Dysplasia – causes lameness and arthritis -most small dogs are susceptible to this

Caring The Pet

The Small Greek Domestic Dog is easy to groom and the coat which sheds moderately will simply require brushing twice a week to keep it silky and vibrant.

Diet:

The Small Greek Domestic Dog is sleek lean and muscular and you want to keep him like that at all costs and avoid obesity. To keep him happy and fit feed him two smaller meals as opposed to one. If you buy commercially manufactured food, make sure its the best quality one as the lower quality foods have inferior ingredients devoid of minerals and vitamins. When you have bought the best quality kibble, treat your dog to some home-made food from time to time – nothing exotic – just plain boiled chicken, brown rice and pasta and cooked vegetables such as potato, carrots and spinach. Some raw meat added in occasionaly is also excellent. Feeding your dog a simple but nutritious meal like this will ensure your dog is healthy, content and free of stomach problems. Fresh, cool water must be availabe around the clock.

Feeding the puppy

havanese dogs - caringFeed 3 to 4 times per day a high quality dry puppy food for toy or small dogs. Feed ¼ to ½ cup each time.

Feeding the adult

Remember these are small dogs and don’t overfeed. Feed a high quality dry food for small or toy dogs. Feed twice a day at about ½ cup each time.

Points for Good Health

The breed is generally very healthy.

Games and Exercises

This breed is not an overly active dog, but he does need some exercise. A nice walk once a day or a backyard to play in. They play inside as well as out. Don’t over exercise the Havanese. They do well in obedience and confirmation more so than agility or fly ball

Basic Information

Group:
Companion dog
Toy dog
Origin:
Greece
Cuba
Height Male:
23 - 32 cm
9 - 13 inches
23 - 27 cm
9 - 11 inches
Height Female:
23 - 32 cm
9 - 13 inches
21 - 25 cm
8 - 10 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 8 kg
6 - 18 pounds
3 - 6 kg
6 - 14 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 8 kg
6 - 18 pounds
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
14 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 7
1 - 9
Size:
Small dog
Toy dog
Other Names:
Small Greek Domestic Dog
Havanese Cuban Bichon Bichón Havanés Havaneser Havanezer Bichon Habanero
Colors Available:
white or black, Beige, blonde
colors all colors
Coat:
Long- and short-haired
coat type soft and curly
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Friendly, Intelligent, Outgoing, Playful
Grooming:
Low maintenance
High maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Morkie vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  2. Havanese vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  3. Havanese vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  4. Havanese vs Chorkie - Breed Comparison
  5. Havanese vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Havanese vs Chiweenie - Breed Comparison
  7. Havanese vs Chug - Breed Comparison
  8. Havanese vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  9. Havanese vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  10. Havanese vs Chipoo - Breed Comparison
  11. Havanese vs Chiapom - Breed Comparison
  12. Havanese vs English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) - Breed Comparison
  13. Havanese vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  14. Havanese vs Franzuskaya Bolonka - Breed Comparison
  15. Havanese vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  16. Havanese vs Cockachon - Breed Comparison
  17. Pekingese vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  18. Long Haired Chihuahua vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  19. Russian Toy Terrier vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  20. Phalene vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  21. Shih Tzu vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  22. Silky Terrier vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  23. Snorkie vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  24. Toy Bulldog vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  25. Toy Mi-Ki vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  26. PekePoo vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  27. Schipperke vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  28. Schweenie vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  29. Meliteo Kinidio vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  30. Meliteo Kinidio vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  31. Meliteo Kinidio vs Alaskan Klee Kai - Breed Comparison
  32. Meliteo Kinidio vs Coton De Tulear - Breed Comparison
  33. Meliteo Kinidio vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  34. Meliteo Kinidio vs Malti-Pom - Breed Comparison
  35. Meliteo Kinidio vs Fruggle - Breed Comparison
  36. Meliteo Kinidio vs Lhasapoo - Breed Comparison
  37. Meliteo Kinidio vs Hawaiian Poi Dog - Breed Comparison
  38. Meliteo Kinidio vs Kyi-Leo - Breed Comparison
  39. Prazsky Krysarik vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  40. Pugalier vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  41. Tsvetnaya Bolonka vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  42. Muggin vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  43. Pomeranian vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  44. Pug vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  45. Miniature Schnauzer vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  46. Papillon vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  47. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  48. Miniature English Bulldog vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  49. Miniature Dachshund vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison
  50. Miniature Poodle vs Meliteo Kinidio - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds