Overview
The Alopekis is a small, ancient landrace found across Greece and neighbouring parts of the Balkans, most often in the farmland and villages of the north. It is not recognised by the FCI.
It was bred as a multipurpose farm dog that hunted pests, guarded the yard and helped with livestock. Numbers are unknown but it is critically endangered.
History
Its domestication in Greece is said to predate the Mycenaean era. An engraved pithos from Thessaly in the Athens archaeological museum is thought to show its silhouette, and another find from Rafina dates to the Early Bronze Age.
Aristotle, Xenophon and Aristophanes all mention it, and the name means a cross between fox and dog, which they believed it was. Mass sterilisation of strays in some regions has cut its numbers, and Greek groups now work to preserve it.
Appearance
The Alopekis is small and fox-like with a wedge-shaped head, erect ears and a sickle or curled tail. The body is longer than tall and robust, with normal, unshortened limbs.
It stands about 25 to 30 cm and weighs 4 to 7 kg. The double coat comes short and smooth, semi-long and tufted, or semi-long and wiry.
Temperament
Quiet, obedient and loyal, the Alopekis is expressive and friendly with people and usually good with children. It is alert and protective of farm animals.
It is a high-energy dog that can cover long distances and a capable hunter of rats and other pests. It adapts to both rural and urban homes.
Care and exercise
Daily walks and play are needed to burn off its energy, and it appreciates a job to do. A securely fenced garden is ideal.
The coat is easy to care for and tends to stay clean, and the dog itself is naturally tidy. Brush weekly, more in shedding season.
