Korean Dog Breeds

Although they are less well-known abroad, Korean dog breeds are prized and distinctive in their native country. Over centuries, these breeds have evolved to suit the climate and customs of Korea. Each one captures the nation’s rich history and affection for its fauna.

Numerous of these dogs were bred for particular functions, like hunting, protection, or companionship. They are still adored today due to their loyalty, wit, and unique appearance.

This post will discuss some of the most well-liked Korean dog breeds, emphasizing their qualities and the reasons that families all over the world find them to be wonderful companions.

Korean Jindo

• Height: 50 to 55 cm
• Weight: 18 to 25 kg
• Life Expectancy: About 14 years

This breed, which originated on the Korean island of Jindo, is now fairly well-known in the West and is one of the few that are still kept as companion animals in South Korea. The Jindo has even received the title of "Natural Treasure of Korea," indicating just how much South Koreans’ attitudes toward dogs have evolved.

One of the oldest breeds of dogs is this iconic Korean dog. Though it is no longer a common practice, eating jindo is still done occasionally despite its status as a natural treasure.

According to experts, the Bankhar, a Mongolian shepherd dog, is the ancestor of the Jindo. They have developed erect ears, a compact body, a wedge-shaped head, and a double coat over centuries of evolution. This breed resembles the Japanese Akita Inu in appearance.

The Korean Jindo is a pack hunting dog that is highly vigilant, agile, and watchful. It can, however, hunt prey on its own, unlike greyhounds.

Crucial! As they typically only have one owner, these dogs do not develop close relationships with subsequent owners and are typically one-person animals.

Guard dogs with intelligence, Korean Jindos only bite when absolutely required. However, socializing Jindo puppies at an early age is crucial. If they receive positive reinforcement during training, they can develop into loving family pets. They also need daily exercise and training.

With only a few potential health issues, the Korean Jindo breed is usually healthy. They are susceptible to food allergies and hypothyroidism, for instance. Entropion, a disorder in which the eyelids fold inward and greatly discomfort the dog, is another ailment that can affect jindos.

Korean Mastiff

• Height: 59 to 76 cm
• Weight: 65 to 84 kg
• Life Expectancy: 7 to 12 years

The Korean Mastiff is a fairly uncommon breed, even in South Korea. These dogs are easily recognized due to their enormous size and the enormous folds of loose skin that cover their head, neck, and muzzle. A lot of Korean dog breeders say this is a modern breed that was created in the early 1900s. A cross between a Tosa Inu and a Dogue de Bordeaux produces Korean Mastiffs.

It may surprise you to learn that the Korean Mastiff breed is not recognized by International Kennel Clubs.

Despite its enormous size, this red dog breed is patient, kind, gentle, and gets along well with kids, making it a great companion for households. A lot of kennels promote them as show dogs because of their cute looks.

The drawback of Korean Mastiff training is that they can be stubborn, so you will need to exercise patience. Korean Mastiffs get tired after lengthy training sessions, so they should be brief and consistent.

Bloat, joint and muscle issues, and mange—a disorder that results in hair loss—are among the conditions that the Korean Mastiff is prone to.

The history, intelligence, and special roles played by breeds such as the Jindo and Sapsali in Korean society have made these canine varieties famous for their loyalty, individuality, and unique qualities. These dogs are highly valued for their versatility, which makes them excellent companions for both individuals and families.

Sapsali

• Height: 48 to 58 cm
• Weight: 16 to 28 kg
• Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years

One of the rare breeds with a long history of significance in Korean folklore is the sapsali. According to legend, these dogs have supernatural abilities that allow them to frighten away ghosts and evil spirits. Even though these myths are difficult to believe, the Sapsali breed has become more well-known outside of its native country due to its attractive appearance.

Fascinating fact: Sapsali are considered national treasures by Korean law. The folk belief in Sapsali is that it brings good luck and keeps families together.

This breed is among the oldest dogs in the world, according to many experts, having its origins in the first century AD. The breed was on the verge of extinction during the World War and the Korean War, but it is still extant today because of the government’s and some breeders’ efforts.

The long shaggy hair, placid temperament, and lion-like muzzles of the Sapsali dog breed contributed to their regal standing as ancient companions of royal families. They make wonderful show dogs and companions today.

Bobtails and sapsali are extremely similar. They are playful, alert, and full of energy. This breed of dog is well-known for its intelligence, playfulness, and ease of training. They are incredibly loyal to their owner and are constantly eager to play. They need to be mentally stimulated all the time.

Dogs in Sapsali are healthy. They are highly resistant to the majority of canine illnesses. Health issues like food allergies and hip dysplasia are what define them.

Nureongi

• Height: 50 to 55 cm
• Weight: 18 to 25 kg
• Life expectancy: about 11 years

Nureongs were not commonly kept as pets in South Korea until recently. This is not to say that the breed was not popular; on the contrary, they simply had a different function. In Korea, these dogs were mostly raised for meat. Every year, roughly two million nureongs were killed for their meat. Even today, you can find them in practically every dog meat market, and only a small percentage of Koreans use them for other things, like keeping them as four-legged companions.

Unbeknownst to you, nureongs were once used as hunting dogs because of their athleticism, agility, alertness, and ability to drive deer.

This breed of dog is a member of the Spitz family. Although it looks similar to the Jindo, it is smaller in size. They have a wedge-shaped head, a straight tail, and ears that resemble bats. This dog has a thick undercoat in addition to a double long coat.

Nureongs make wonderful family dogs since they are gentle with kids and extremely loyal to their owners. Regretfully, they are vulnerable to a wide range of autoimmune conditions, including sebaceous adenitis and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Pungsan

• Height: 50 to 55 cm
• Weight: 18 to 30 kg
• Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years

The Pungsan is a North Korean breed that was originally bred primarily for hunting. The Pungsan bears resemblances in appearance and build to the much more well-known Siberian Husky, to which it is a distant relative.

Fascinating fact: Despite the lack of historical evidence, experts think that this breed is ancient. According to some cynologists, this particular breed of dog came to the Korean peninsula with the Mongolian troops and eventually adapted to life in the mountains. The modern Pungsan is the result of several generations of meticulously selective breeding.

The majority of specimens of this still-rare breed can be found in North Korea and a few northern Chinese provinces. Leaders from North Korea have presented Pungsan as gifts or peace offerings to other leaders on multiple occasions.

This hunting dog is an exceptional pack hunter. Pungsan are able to kill prey without the aid of humans and can coordinate with other dogs during a hunt. They’re also fantastic companion dogs. This breed is incredibly loyal and intelligent, with a wonderful temperament.

Crucial! Pungsan forms a close relationship with its owner. But if you don’t socialize your pet early on, it may grow up to be hostile toward outsiders and other household pets.

This breed is challenging to "adopt" because of its intense loyalty to its original owner. It’s also important to note that Phunsans are susceptible to cataracts, hip dysplasia, and canine distemper (for which a vaccination is required).

Dungengs

• Height: 52 to 55 cm
• Weight: from 18 to 25 kg
• Expected life expectancy: from 12 to 14 years old

A distinctive characteristic sets dongings apart from other Korean breeds. These dogs are almost silent, and their mutation came from nature. Dongngs and Korean Chindo are very similar, with the exception of the very short tail. Regretfully, the Dongyang, who were formerly well-liked by Koreans, were harmed by the Japanese during their rule. Dongyengs were no longer bred after Korea was freed because their short tails were viewed as ugly and a bad omen. They are extremely rare these days.

Fascinating fact: during archaeological digs in the Silla region, clay figurines depicting dogs with short tails were discovered. According to experts, the Dongyanggi is one of the oldest Korean breeds, having been around since the sixth century.

This is a typical spitz dog that needs to be handled carefully. Dongengs are observant, astute, and unyielding. That being said, they are not appropriate for novice dog owners. Make sure your pet is socialized from an early age. Dongyangs that are not trained may turn wild. Large, open areas are also necessary for them to let out their limitless energy.

They live 12 to 14 years on average and are healthy dogs. It is true that they suffer from a number of health issues, including cataracts, joint and muscular issues, hip dysplasia, a condition that affects their spine.

Jeju

• Height: 48 to 54 cm
• Weight: 18 to 25 kg
• Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years

The Korean island bearing the same name is home to the original Jeju dog breed. Their foreheads are sharper than Korean Chindo’s, but otherwise they are very similar. A Chestju is among the rarest canines available, as the breed was all but exterminated in the 1980s. This ancient breed, which was first seen on the island more than 3000 years ago, was brought back to life using the three surviving copies. There were just 69 purebreds in the world in 2010; however, a concerted effort to protect the breed is helping to increase their numbers.

Funny fact: According to breeders, a purebred Chestju female should resemble a fox, and the male should resemble a wolf.

This is one of the biggest native dogs in Korea. The Chestju’s owners assert that their animals are brave, tenacious, protective, and very territorial, making them ideal patrol dogs. They avoid unfamiliar people. Make sure to socialize and train them from an early age to stop the emergence of aggressive behavior.

A Jeju has a 14-year lifespan on average, and they never stop being active. Scabies, food allergies, and skin allergies are common in this breed.

Interesting facts about stingrays

Olga Ivanova

About the author

I have a soft spot in my heart for cats and other small furry creatures, but I love all animals. I started doing weekend volunteer work at an animal shelter a few years ago. The joy we feel when we find animals who have experienced hardships a new home is beyond words. I’m in love with my work and don’t intend to leave anytime soon!

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was bred to be a companion, but it still has the athletic nature of its spaniel forebears. Should they not perch on the proprietor’s lap or…

Bolognese

The Bolognese, also known as the Italian lap dog, is a true companion dog that adores spending time with its family. But they also enjoy having their way.

Greyhound Dog Breeds

Maybe you’ve always thought it would be wonderful to have a graceful greyhound live with you. However, did you know that there are multiple options available? ..

TOP 15 Dog Breeds That Are Suitable for Kids

On the "World Wide Web," there are about forty dog breeds that are appropriate for children. In this rating, the "hashi" and "jackushki" are particularly adorable.

Breed	Description
Korean Jindo	A loyal and intelligent breed known for its strong hunting instincts and excellent sense of direction.
Pungsan Dog	A brave and strong dog breed, originally bred for hunting in the mountains of North Korea.
Sapsali	A friendly and fluffy breed believed to bring good luck, known for its thick, shaggy coat.
Nureongi	A traditional Korean breed, often used as a working dog, recognizable by its yellowish coat.

Korean dog breeds are renowned for their intelligence, fidelity, and close family ties. These breeds offer a special blend of strength and gentleness, making them ideal for anyone looking for a loving companion or protector.

Every breed, from the well-known Jindo to the uncommon Pungsan, has unique characteristics that set them apart. They adapt well to a variety of lifestyles and work well in both quiet and busy households.

By becoming knowledgeable about these breeds, you can celebrate Korea’s rich cultural legacy in dog breeding while finding a dog that meets your needs.

Related videos

About dogs in South Korea | #korea #southkorea #dogs

BUYING A DOG IN KOREA / HYPOALLERGENIC BREED

BOUGHT A DOG IN KOREA | South Korea | An Yana

You"ve definitely seen such dogs?

Korean Micro Puppies in Russia on www.micropet.ru