SMALL MEĐIMURJE DOG – MEĐI
According to word of mouth, it is being bred over a hundred years in northwestern Croatia, in Međimurje area mostly. Found in rural yards as a guard dog and hunter for harmful rodents. Because of these characteristics, the owners of mills on the Mura and Drava rivers, as well as nowadays stock breeders, were glad to have them. Because of its size and character it is very suitable for breeding in the urban environment. Međi is small, very harmoniously built dog, a rectangular shape with short legs. Length of body can exceed for one third height at the withers. Medium body structure, not too heavy bones, lively, agile, intelligent and very obedient dog. According to the morphological system it belongs to the lupoid type of dog with wedge-shaped head and triangular erect ears. Coat is short, rather hard and flat, somewhat longer on the upper part of the neck (mane) and on the lower inner side of tail (fringes). Tail reaches to the hock. When alert and happy carried in slight curve above the back. The most commonly colored specimens are bicolored with various forms and patterns, as well as the tricolored. The preferred height at the withers for males and females is between 28 – 33 cm. The length of the body can exceed for 33% the height at the withers. The dog is showing the qualities of a good guard, but not aggressive towards people and other dogs not to domestic animals. It is very persistent and diligent in their work, especially to catch rodents. Restrained by a foreign people, incorruptible, and loud barking to announce the arrival of a stranger. To the owner and family is very loyal and affectionate and playful in contact with children. Intelligent, impeccably performing verbal commands.
