AKA: Jindo Dog, Jindo Gae, Chindo

Description: The Jindo is a medium-sized dog of the spitz family. Its head is used to differentiate it from other breeds; the topskull is broad and rounded between the ears and, together with its well-developed underjaw, helps create an octagonal shape to its head on a frontal view. The ears are set high, standing upright but leaning forward past the vertical. When the Jindo is relaxed, the ears lean slightly off to the sides. As a puppy, the ears are normally down until 5-6 months of age.

The eyes of the Jindo are almond-shaped and dark brown or dark red brown. The nose is black on non-white dogs. For white dogs, the nose may have a little white or flesh pink on the nose.

The body of the Jindo can either be muscular and short or slender. Nevertheless, either body structure still exudes agility, strength, and dignity. The legs are moderately angulated, fit for travelling long distances and hilly terrains. Feet are tight and compact. The tail is thick, and can be carried straight, sickled, or curled.

Dynamics: The Jindo has a serious temperament and is a natural worker. It has a strong will and is very independent. It is a very free-spirited breed, and needs to be respected. It can be protective and territorial. It is loyal and obedient to its owner and family. It can be very affectionate and loving, but it is reserved and does not show affection to strangers.

Socialization, coupled with a firm and consistent training, is required in raising the Jindo. This breed has a high prey drive and it may exhibit an aggressive attitude towards others. It is especially recommended to socialize the Jindo with children. The Jindo should not be left alone around small animals. This breed can also be aggressive towards other dogs.

Breed Group: Working, although not recognized internationally

Weight: males 35–50 pounds (16-23 kg), females 25–40 pounds (11-18 kg)

Height: males 18–25 inches (48-65 cm), females 16–22 inches (41-58 cm)

Color: The Jindo can be white, yellow, red, red and white, tan, tan and white, black, black and tan, and brindle.

Country of Origin: The Jindo is a native breed of Korea, originally bred on the island of Jindo in Southwest Korea. It is protected by Korean laws, and is the most popular breed in the country.

Activities: The Jindo loves to roam around and is always in action. This breed was developed to hunt down wild boars, rabbits, badgers, and deer. It hunts either in groups or on its own. The Jindo should be sufficiently walked and exercised to help avoid the dog being bored and looking for mischief.

Grooming: The Jindo sheds heavily twice a year. Brushing the coat daily is necessary to remove loose and dead hair. Bathing occasionally is also needed. Other than that, the Jindo grooms itself like a cat to be clean.

Other Info: The Jindo has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. It is a generally healthy dog, but hypothyroidism is an issue among this breed. The Jindo will do okay in an apartment as long as it is sufficiently exercised.