Jindo

avatar Jenna Kahn, MBA, VMD

Height17 - 21"

Weight33 - 50 lbs

TypeN/A

Life Expectancy12 - 14 years

Area of OriginSouth Korea

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

The Jindo is an intelligent, athletic, and fiercely-loyal breed of dog that is indigenous to Jindo Island in South Korea. Originally a hunting dog, the Jindo is alert, courageous, and well known for having an incredible sense of direction. They also have a reputation for being completely devoted to their owners and protective of their family. These watchful and faithful dogs have made their way into modern-day apartments and homes as adorable, fluffy companions that love their families deeply.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Jindos From?

Named after their native South Korean island, the Jindo breed ran free for thousands of years, developing their searching and hunting skills before becoming domesticated.

They’re well known for having an uncanny sense of direction and being fiercely loyal to their owners. One famous story involves a Jindo that traveled nearly 200 miles to return to their original handler.

This combination of history, valor, determination, and heritage has resulted in great respect for the breed from the South Korean government. In fact, the Jindo has been named as the 53rd Natural Monument of Korea and is thereby shielded from abuse and slaughter. Although the exportation of Jindos from Korea is forbidden, many have traveled with Korean families to other countries.

Jindos in the United States are known for being medium-sized companion animals, suited for both city and country living. The Jindo breed was entered into the American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service category in 2008.

Where Are Jindos From?

Named after their native South Korean island, the Jindo breed ran free for thousands of years, developing their searching and hunting skills before becoming domesticated.

Care

What Kind of Diet Does a Jindo Need?

Jindos require a high-quality food suited for their active lifestyle. They can be picky eaters, so avoid free-feeding or offering an excessive amount of treats, since it can turn them off of their regular dog food.

Caring for a Jindo

What Kind of Diet Does a Jindo Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Jindo Need?

Are Jindos Healthy Dogs?

How Much Training Does a Jindo Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Jindo Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Jindo Need?

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Jindo?

The Jindo is a type of Spitz dog, which is a term used to describe many Arctic breeds that come from harsh, cold regions and have physical features that suit their environment. They have a thick, double coat and triangular, erect ears.

The head of a Jindo is medium-sized, broad, and slightly rounded between the ears. Ears themselves are thick, triangular, and stand upright at either side of the skull. The eyes are small and almond shaped, featuring a dark brown color.

The body of a Jindo boasts a moderately deep chest with a well-sprung rib cage. The back is strong and muscular. Overall, the body is square in shape and tucked up at the belly.

Yes, Jindo tails often carry a loose curl or sickle shape. They are strong and covered by a dense coat of hair.

The shoulders are powerful and set back on the body. Forelimbs are straight and parallel. The feet are compact, with short and round toes.

There are 6 possible color schemes for Jindos: white, black, black and tan, red fawn, wolf grey, and brindle.

The thighs of the hindlimbs are well-muscled. The remainder is straight and parallel when viewed from the back.

Jindo Facts

1

A Jindo marched in the opening ceremonies of the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, Korea.

2

Jindos are afraid of water and are averse to swimming and going out in the rain.

3

A Jindo named Baekgu is a pop culture icon in her native South Korea. In 1993, she famously found her way back to her original handler after being separated by nearly 200 miles.

Other Breeds to Explore

Shiba Inu

Akita

Siberian Husky

References

American Kennel Club. The Complete Dog Book. Random House Digital, Inc., 2006.
Morris, Desmond. Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of Over 1,000 Dog Breeds. Trafalgar Square, 2002.