Description

The coat of the Jindo comes in white, yellow, red, red and white, tan, tan and white, black, black and tan, and brindle.

Origin

The Jindo was originally bred on the Island of Jindo in Southwest Korea several centuries ago. They were bred to hunt wild boars, rabbits, badgers, and deer, working in groups or on their own. It is characteristic for the Jindo to bring down its prey, then to return to its owner to lead him/her to its catch. Jindos first started to appear in the United States in the 1980s. The Jindo is protected by Korean Law as a national monument. Their legendary loyalty and affection for their masters, fastidious nature, high intelligence, and unfailing courage have made the Jindo the most popular breed of dog in Korea.

Temperament

The Jindo is a medium-sized spitz-type dog that originated from the Jindo Island in Korea. Similar in appearance to the smaller Shiba Inu and the larger Akita, they were originally bred for hunting game as small as rodents to as large as deer. Almost all Jindos possess strong wills (even the ones that seem deceptively compliant) and have independent minds. They love to roam and are quite the free spirits. They think they know best and can be very protective of their loved ones and territory. Because of these traits, Jindos are not recommended for inexperienced owners. Like most independent breeds, they need (and thrive under) firm but loving handling and consistency. An owner who has earned the respect of his/her Jindo will be rewarded with unsurpassed loyalty and obedience. As with all breeds, the Jindo temperament varies with the quality of breeding and environment. The typical Jindo is very affectionate with its loved ones and reserved with strangers. A typical Jindo will not show affection towards people it has just met. At their most expressive, they are friendly in a gentle way. They are excellent watchdogs and will guard the home and family to the death if necessary. Early socialization to friendly strangers, other dogs, cats, and especially children is strongly recommended because Jindos are instinctively protective and have high prey drives. Because of their prey drives, they are usually not reliable around smaller animals such as hamsters and rabbits. In Korea, there are no leash laws and Jindos are allowed to roam freely. Their only aggression seems to be directed at other dogs and only as a means of establishing dominance or territories.

Height

Height: Dogs: 18 25 inches (48-65 cm.) Bitches: 16 22 inches (41-58

Weight

Weight: Dogs 35 50 pounds (16-23 kg) Bitches: 25 40 pounds (11-18 kg.)

Known Health Problems

The Jindo is a relatively healthy dog. Hypothyroidism can be a problem.

Conditions for Living

The Jindo should be allowed to live indoors with the family as opposed to being relegated to the yard where he might get into mischief out of boredom or loneliness. Jindos have been known to scale walls or fences that were 8 feet high. As independent as he is, his first desire is to be with his owner. As long as they are sufficiently walked, Jindos can be pleasant apartment dwellers due to their natural fastidiousness. Jindos will groom themselves like cats to keep themselves clean. They are very easy to housetrain.

Exercise Requirments

Jindos need room to move. These dogs love to roam and investigate their territory (which to them, is fairly expansive). Unless well-trained on recall, it is highly recommended that Jindos be walked on lead at all times because of their prey drive. A minimum of two, 30-minute happy. Although Jindos are not famous for their fetching abilities, they can be trained to fetch which is also an excellent form of exercise. Playing tug-of-war with a Jindo is not recommended unless the owner is assured victory.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years

Grooming

The Jindo has a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. During the shedding season, extra care must be given to the coat. Warm baths can help the process along. Daily brushing is necessary to remove the undercoat. Otherwise, be prepared for rolling tumbleweeds of undercoat.

Group