Korean Jindo Breed Description

Introduction

Descendants of Nordic Spitzen, these dogs were declared a national treasure by the Korean government in 1938. With cat-like feet, straight legs and elbows close to the body, they are similar to the structure of the Akita. Almost all Jindos possess a strong will, even the ones that seen deceptively compliant. They are free spirits with independent minds. They love to roam. These dogs are not recommended for inexperienced owners. Jindos are good watchdogs but are not good with children. Daily brushing is required to remove the undercoat, otherwise be prepared for rolling tumbleweeds of hair. These dogs weigh 25 to 50 lbs. and stand 16-25" at the shoulders.

History

The rocky isolation of Jindo Island was the birthplace of the dog that bears its name. Very few were ever transported away from the island, where they thrived, unknown to the rest of the world (or even to the rest of Korea) until a bridge was built linking Jindo and the mainland in 1977.

As hunters, Jindo are able to pursue their prey over any terrain, and they have an expert sense of direction. They specialize in hunting everything from rabbit to wild boar – there is nothing they will not enjoy tracking and taking down. Their sense of smell is remarkable even among sporting dogs. Today the South Korean government uses Jindo on their military bases. The dogs are introduced to all base residents and then they are employed as watch dogs to keep unauthorized people out. Testing has shown they can recognize and store more than 30,000 scents.

How they began on Jindo Island is the subject of myth and legend; most recount that a Korean dog was brought to the island, where it was impregnated by an Asian Wolf and the result is the Jindo. The breed is similar in size to that breed of wolf, so perhaps there is a grain of truth in the stories.

General Appearance

The Jindo is a medium sized Spitz-type dog that gives an impression of robust agility. They have a thick coarse outer coat with a dense undercoat for protection in all weather and any terrain. Recognized as a National Treasure of Korea, the government there only recognizes Jindos in white or red (which is more like a tan). However, the breed actually occurs in black, black and tan, grey and red and white as well.

Viewed from the top, the Jindo’s head is a perfect inverted triangle. Eyes are dark, if they are red rimmed or have a red glint, that touch of red is considered a sign of hunting prowess. Ears are erect triangles set high on the head. The body is athletic: a strong neck leads to strong shoulders; ribs are well sprung. Straight legged, feet have dense pads for all terrains. The tail is either coiled or straight.

Temperament

Jindos have a mind of their own, a necessary trait in a dog that will be used to make independent decisions, whether in pursuing and taking down game or as a sentinel. They tend to bond to one individual, to whom they are extremely loyal. That person can train them as long as they approach the task with both firmness and respect. Jindos will not be abused or mocked, and will often refuse to perform tasks they consider to be beneath them. This is not a dog for everyone, as the Jindo is an extremely independent thinker thanks to centuries of breeding. It is worth noting that most Korean residents on Jindo Island were not hunting with guns. They raised these dogs to hunt on their own and bring the game back to the master, unless it was a particularly large animal: then the dog was to return to the master and announce the kill, leading the master to the deer or boar.

This is not the average family pet, although Jindos thrive in the special families that understand them and love them for the very unique dogs they are.

Health and Care

Jindos need almost no maintenance other than healthy food and lots of exercise. Their fur does not need much brushing, and they should be bathed only when truly necessary. Keep nails trimmed and acclimate your Jindo to getting its teeth brushed while it is a puppy.

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