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Small Međimurje Dog
Hound breed from Međimurje, Croatia
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Small Međimurje Dog
The Small Međimurje Dog is a medium-sized hound breed originating from the Međimurje region of Croatia. It is known for its energetic, intelligent, alert, loyal, and affectionate temperament. The breed is described as a small Croatian hunting dog with a compact build and keen scenting abilities, historically known as 'Međimurski ftičar' (little bird hunter). It combines primitive-type characteristics with scenthound abilities and serves as both a loyal companion and a courageous watchdog. Recognition status varies by registry; the breed was provisionally recognized by the FCI in 2022, but this date is from an external source and should be treated with caution. No specific coat types or colors are documented in the supplied facts.
Quick facts
Small Međimurje Dog at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginMeđimurje, Croatia
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight8–16 kilogram
Female weight8–16 kilogram
Male height35–43 centimetre
Female height35–43 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Small Međimurje Dog was developed in the Međimurje region of northwestern Croatia as a hunting companion for small game. Historically, it has been known locally as 'Međimurski ftičar' (little bird hunter), reflecting its traditional role in hunting birds and other small game. The breed has been known for generations in the region as both a hunter and a companion. According to an external source, the breed was provisionally recognized by the FCI in 2022, but this information is not independently verified within the core facts. The breed's exact historical timeline and development details are not fully documented in the supplied evidence, so any claims about specific dates or events beyond what is stated here should be considered uncertain.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
8–16 kilogramAdult weight35–43 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Energeticintelligentalertloyalaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Small Međimurje Dog-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Small Međimurje Dog puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight8–16 kilogramAdult female weight8–16 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of the Small Međimurje Dog?
The Small Međimurje Dog is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult height ranges from 35 to 43 cm at the shoulder for both males and females. Estimated adult weight ranges from 8 to 16 kg for both sexes. The estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These measurements are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of the Small Međimurje Dog?
The breed is described as energetic, intelligent, alert, loyal, and affectionate. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every dog will exhibit all these traits consistently.
How much exercise does a Small Međimurje Dog need?
The breed has a high energy level (energy score 4 out of 5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. As a hunting breed, it likely enjoys activities that engage its scenting abilities, but specific exercise requirements are not detailed in the supplied facts.
What are the grooming needs of the Small Međimurje Dog?
Grooming requirements are moderate (grooming score 3 out of 5). Shedding is also moderate (shedding score 3 out of 5). No specific coat types are documented, so grooming routines may vary.
Is the Small Međimurje Dog suitable for families with children or other dogs?
The breed has moderate suitability for children (score 3 out of 5) and moderate compatibility with other dogs (score 3 out of 5). Individual temperament and socialization play a significant role, so not all dogs will be equally suitable.
Can the Small Međimurje Dog live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is moderate (score 3 out of 5). Given its high energy level, access to regular exercise is important, but it may adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient activity.
Where does the Small Međimurje Dog originate from?
The breed originates from the Međimurje region of Croatia. It was developed as a hunting companion for small game and is historically known as 'Međimurski ftičar' (little bird hunter).
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.