Due to its mix origin, the Mi-Ki has traits similar to a toy dog: they are diminutive, compact, and refined. They have long and smooth coats. They have small, apple-shaped head with a very short muzzle, large round eyes, wide nostrils and feathered ears that can be erect or hanging. Their medium-length, plumed tail carries over the back.
The origin of the breed is rather vague. The breed wasn’t on anyone’s list until they appeared in the US in 1980s. It is believed that the Mi-Ki is a crossbred between different Asian dog breeds, namely the Papillon, the Maltese, and the Shih Tzu. In general, the Mi-Ki is considered to be a “made in America” breed.