Korean Jindo

by Kate Barrington

Published: February 3rd, 2016

About Korean Jindo

Weight

35-60 lb

Lifespan

12-15 years

Group

AKC Foundation Stock Service

Best Suited For

Families with children, active singles, active families, house with a yard, watchdog

Temperament

Loyal, gentle, active, independent

Comparable Breeds

Shiba Inu, Akita

Height

18.5-21 inches

Korean Jindo Basics

Also known as the Jindo, the Korean Jindo dog breed comes from Jindo Island in South Korea. This dog is known for being fiercely loyal to its owners and for its gentle nature. This breed looks similar to the Shiba Inu, another Asian breed, and it has the same loving and friendly nature. If you are looking for a unique and intelligent breed of dog that makes a great family pet, consider the Jindo.

This dog is known for being fiercely loyal to its owners and for its gentle nature.

Origin

There is no written record regarding the origins and history of the Jindo breed, but it is known to have existed on Korean Jindo Island for hundreds of years. There are several theories about the origins of the breed, including one that labels the Jindo as a cross-breed developed from Mongolian dogs. This breed was used for many years to hunt rabbit, boar, badgers and deer, working alone or as part of a group. The Jindo is able to take down its prey alone but then returns to its owner and leads him to the catch. The Jindo was officially recognized as a natural treasure in South Korea in 1962 and it was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1998. The Jindo breed is still growing in popularity and has not yet been recognized by the AKC, though it has been admitted into the Foundation Stock Service.

Pedigree

The exact origins of the Korean Jindo breed are unknown but it may have been developed from various Mongolian breeds.

Food/Diet

As a medium-sized breed, the Jindo requires a dog food diet specially formulated for dogs of its size. It is also important to note that this breed is highly active so it may do best on a diet that is formulated for active/working breeds.

The Korean Jindo is an intelligent breed so it requires plenty of socialization and training from a young age.

Training

The Korean Jindo is an intelligent breed so it requires plenty of socialization and training from a young age. This breed can also be fairly independent and dominant, so you need to establish yourself as an authority figure and maintain a firm, consistent hand in training. This breed learns very quickly, though it does tend to have a mind of its own and will ignore commands if it doesn’t feel like following them. The Jindo can be used as a watch dog and it is often used as a gatekeeper because it has a natural ability to tell friend from foe.

Weight

The Korean Jindo is a medium-sized dog breed with males growing 19.5 to 21 inches tall and females growing 18.5 to 20 inches tall. Males of the breed typically weigh 40 to 60 pounds and females weigh 35 to 55 pounds.

Temperament/Behavior

The Jindo is a fiercely loyal breed that bonds closely with family. This breed is gentle by nature, though it makes a great watch dog because it is easily able to distinguish friend from foe. The Korean Jindo enjoys human interaction and it requires plenty of attention on a daily basis as well as both mental and physical stimulation to prevent the development of problem behaviors. This breed has a tendency to be something of an escape artist with a propensity for climbing or digging under fences. This breed also has a high prey drive so it might not be a good choice for homes with small dogs, cats, and other animals. This breed does, however, get along well with children. Because this breed has a dominant personality it is generally best to keep it as an only dog.

Common Health Problems

The Korean Jindo is a healthy breed by nature with few serious ailments. As is true for all dogs, however, the Jindo is prone to developing certain health problems. One of the health problems known to affect this breed is hypothyroidism.

Life Expectancy

The average lifespan of the Korean Jindo breed is 12 to 15 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Korean Jindo is a highly active dog that has a lot of energy to work off on a daily basis. This breed requires a long daily walk or run along with plenty of active play time and, ideally, room to run outdoors. The Jindo needs plenty of mental as well as physical stimulation to keep it from getting bored and developing problem behaviors. This breed is known to be something of an escape artist when not properly exercised and it can be a little too high-strung for dog parks.

The Jindo is a fiercely loyal breed that bonds closely with family.

AKC

The Jindo is not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club but it has been admitted into the Foundation Stock Service. Once registration numbers are high enough, the breed will be officially recognized and admitted into a group for show.

Coat

The Korean Jindo has smooth double coat that is short to medium-length and it comes in five different colors – white, fawn, grey, black and tan, and brindle. This breed sheds heavily twice a year, but it also sheds a little bit during the in-between times. The Jindo requires daily brushing to keep shedding under control.

Puppies

The average litter size for the Korean Jindo breed is 4 to 8 puppies. This breed grows fairly quickly and it is known for developing an independent streak from a young age, so you need to start your Jindo with socialization and training as early as possible.

Photo credit: jamongcreator/Shutterstock; roollooralla/Shutterstock

Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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Do you know what a Landrace dog breed is? They may not be all that popular in North America, but chances are you’ve heard of these dogs before. You don’t have to be an expert in dog genetics to understand the basics about dog breeds. The term “breed” is used to describe a group of dogs that have distinct characteristics which identify them as a group and set them apart from other groups. The FCI currently recognizes over 400 different dog breeds and, if you had to, you could probably name quite a few of them yourself. Though you know the basics about dog breeds, have you ever heard the term “landrace breed”? If not, keep reading to learn more. From Village Dogs to Landrace Dogs According to an article published in The New York Times, there are more than a billion dogs on the planet, but only 250 million of them are kept as pets. What does that make the rest of those dogs? It is important to realize that while the domestic dog (Canis familiarus) is genetically different from the wild wolf (Canis lupus), not all dogs have been fully domesticated. About 750 million dogs on the earth are somewhere between being domestic and being completely wild – they are commonly referred to as village dogs. Related: What is a Sighthound? According to genetics experts, village dogs are the result of natural selection in an environment that is affected by humans. So, while humans may not have directly controlled the breed’s development through selective breeding, they were indirectly involved in certain ways such as the following: Providing food or shelterRestricting animal movementTaking care of sick animalsEliminating natural predatorsHelping with animal births Whether passive or direct, these practices have an impact on the course of nature and in the development from village dogs (dogs that are semi-wild) into landrace breeds. But what exactly is a landrace breed? It is an intermediate step between a village dog and a formal breed. Many landrace breeds come about largely as a result of environmental factors such as terrain, altitude, temperature, abundance of resources, and predators with some selective breeding by humans. Landrace Dogs vs. Pure Breeds The primary distinguishing factor that defines a landrace breed is its connection to a specific region. These dogs possess certain traits that enable them (and their humans) to survive in certain conditions. One of the oldest known breeds is the Basenji, a landrace breed that originated in central Africa. Other landrace breeds include the following: Korean JindoTaiwan DogScotch CollieAmerican Carolina DogIndian Pariah DogThai RidgebackWelsh SheepdogDingoBasque Shepherd DogNative American Dog If landrace breeds are, to some degree, selectively bred by humans then what sets them apart from pure breeds? The biggest difference is that landraces are adapted to a specific region while pure breeds are developed for a specific purpose. That purpose might be related to the region (such as livestock guarding breeds adapted to cold climates), but the breed itself has defined characteristics set forth by some kind of formal breed association. Pure breeds are genetically isolated from other breeds due to selective breeding whereas landrace breeds are genetically isolated due to geographical isolation.

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Clicker training is a popular form of positive reinforcement dog training that uses a small handheld device called a clicker to mark and reinforce desired behaviors. The clicker makes a distinct and consistent sound that signals to the dog that they have performed the desired behavior, followed by a reward such as a treat or praise. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with the reward, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.Now, if you want to try clicker training with your dog, you could be wondering at what age should you start. Very early on? Or as your puppy grows a bit older? Let’s find out.What Age Should You Start Clicker Training?Clicker training is versatile and can be used for teaching  basic commands, tricks, and even addressing behavioral issues. It is a humane and positive approach to training that fosters a strong bond between the owner and the dog. Clicker training can be started with dogs at a relatively young age, typically when they are around 8 weeks old. Puppies are capable of learning basic commands and behaviors from a young age, and clicker training can be a positive and effective method for teaching them.However, it's important to keep in mind that very young puppies have shorter attention spans, so training sessions should be kept short and fun. Focus on simple commands and behaviors, and use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, in conjunction with the clicker.Consistency and patience are key when training puppies, and it's important to make the training sessions enjoyable for them. Stay consistent and maintain your composure and command. Even if the early training sessions last just a few minutes, keep it up. Of course, if you're unsure about how to start clicker training or have concerns about your puppy's readiness, consulting with a professional dog trainer or attending puppy training classes can be helpful. Always use positive reinforcement methods to create a positive and trusting relationship between you and your dog.Remember that clicker training requires patience and hard work to be successful. The idea is to associate the sound of the clicker with positive reinforcement, making it a powerful tool for communication between the owner and the dog.4 Things to Know About Clicker TrainingTo ensure your training sessions with a clicker are successful no matter when you start implementing them in your pet’s routine, you need to know the basics. These tips will help you optimize your process for maximum efficiency:Timing is KeyClicker training relies on precise timing. The click should occur at the exact moment your dog exhibits the desired behavior. This helps your dog make the connection between the behavior and the reward.Positive Reinforcement

After 5 Long Years, a Lost Senior Dog is Reunited With His Owner

It seems that year is off to a good start in Sharonville, Ohio, where a true miracle happened for a hopeful pawrent. A Butler County woman named Hannah experienced immense relief and happiness after she was reunited with her long-lost doggo, at the annual My Furry Valentine adoption event in Sharonville. Will, Hannah’s wonderful Golden Retriever buddy had been missing for five years, after he wandered away from home in October 2019. Devastated, Hannah and her family searched for days and weeks for Will, but without success. In the end, fearing the worst, they had to let go of their wavering hopes.But incredibly, much to their amazement, their hopes were rekindled. They spotted a stray dog photo posted out of Clermont County – the resemblance to Will was uncanny. Hannah quickly sent a Facebook message to the nonprofit Clear the Clermont County Animal Shelter, inquiring about the dog - apparently named Rome. After a brief explanation, she said she believed it was none other than her beloved Will. 

How Do I Help A Dog Afraid of Car Rides?

Do you dream of travelling the world with your best friend by your side, but your dog turns into a nervous wreck every time you approach the car? If so, you’re not alone! Many dogs experience car anxiety to some degree, ranging from those who are slightly unsure of the vehicle to those who experience severe levels of stress. Luckily, there are options to manage your dog’s anxiety and even prevent it from happening in the future. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to improve your dog’s relationship with the car, from gradual desensitization to the use of calming treats and other products to make your next road trip easier for everyone! Is Driving Stressful for Dogs? Whether your dog finds car rides to be stressful will vary from dog to dog. Many pups are excited by simply hearing the phrase “car ride” and love sharing that experience with their human family members. However, for some dogs, the idea of getting into a vehicle instantly triggers feelings of stress and anxiety. As dog parents, the best thing we can do is pay careful attention to our dog's nonverbal communication and body language. Although dogs may not be able to speak English, they do a pretty good job of communicating how they are feeling if we know how to listen. How Do I Know if My Dog is Scared in the Car? Interpreting your dog’s body language often involves noting several different behaviors, as fear and anxiety can easily mimic excitement in many ways. For example, fearful dogs may whine when approaching a vehicle because they are afraid of getting into the car. However, approaching the same way with an excited dog may trigger a whine as they anticipate the fun ahead. Other aspects of their behavior, like their stance (standing tall and confident versus hunched low to the ground with their tail tucked), can help you better translate what your dog is trying to tell you.Some of the common signs that a dog is feeling afraid or anxious include: Excessive panting or yawning Licking the lips Whale eyes (showing the whites of the eyes)Large, dilated pupilsEars pressed forward or back against the headCowering or attempting to hideTail tucked between the legs or up and stuffShaking or tremblingSubmissive urinationStaring intently at the trigger Displacement behaviors like sneezing or itchingRefusal to take treats (even if they are typically food-driven)The most important thing to remember is that every dog is different. Your dog may display any combination of the symptoms listed above. No one knows your dog better than you. Trust your gut if you feel that something is off, even if it doesn’t fit the stereotypical fear response.

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Scientists Uncover Secrets of Extinct "Wooly Dog" Breed

Throughout history, dogs have played several key roles in the lives of people globally. They have hunted, worked, and provided for us, forever weaving them into the fabric of human existence. We often use this knowledge to better understand our modern dogs by reflecting on their original purpose as a breed. Unfortunately, not every breed continues to thrive among us today.The Coast Salish wooly dog was a unique breed, kept by the First Nations people throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Vancouver Island, for its fleece-like coat. A new study reveals insights into the history of the now-extinct breed.Unlike most animals at that time in history, the dog was kept in pens and longhouses. This was done to prevent the dogs from mixing with village and hunting dogs, preserving the breed and the fleece it provided.“They were sheared like sheep, and the wool was woven into blankets,” recounted Eliot White-Hill of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “Blankets were like currency in our economy prior to contact and some of the most important things you could own and give away as gifts.”The dogs were fed a diet of fish and elk and were seen as beloved family members.“It’s not just a dog – it’s a relative. It has enormous spiritual power, conveyed in its wool,” explained Michael Pavel, an elder of the Skokomish-Twana tribe and one of the study's authors. “Imagine being able to receive the gift of wool fiber, being able to learn to weave that into yarn, into an entity, or a blanket or robe that you could wrap yourself in the coldest of winter and feel the warmth of those prayers. That’s how we look at it, and we can now enjoy a scientific view, as well.”Unfortunately, the breed did not survive colonization. It’s not clear exactly what caused the demise of the Coast Salish wooly dog – the introduction of European dog breeds, rules enforced on First Nations people during assimilation and displacement, or smallpox epidemics being a few of the hypothesized factors.But thanks to the preserved pelt of a wooly dog named Mutton, who died in 1859, researchers can now learn a little more about the unique DNA of the dog, its lineage, and insight into the breeding practices of local Indigenous communities.Researchers compared DNA from Mutton’s pelt to that of a separate non-wooly village dog that lived and died in the same region at approximately the same time.While the information gathered from the study did not offer any conclusive answers about the disappearance of the breed, it did hypothesize that the Indian Act of 1876 played a critical role as it would have directly impacted the ability of Indigenous women to pass on valuable knowledge about caring for the dogs and weaving necessary to its survival.On a positive note, the study did support historical facts shared by First Nations people in that area – a valuable piece of the puzzle as many work to reclaim the traditions of their ancestors.“It brought a large group of people together that reaffirmed for us the history we know,” stated Violet Elliott, also of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “It was a gift of collaboration with other nations.”

How Do I Make a DIY Nail Board for My Dog?

Maintaining your dog’s nails is essential to their overall health and well-being, but it can be challenging if your dog is uncomfortable with the nail clippers and other standard tools. While you could pay to bring your dog to the veterinarian each time a trim is needed, there are other options.Our pup Lucifer is nervous anytime someone touches his paws as a result of injuries to his front legs as a young rescue pup. This means that nail trims are a source of extreme anxiety.While we continue working on counterconditioning and helping him overcome his fears, we knew we needed to find a solution for the here and now. Enter the DIY nail board – a simple, budget-friendly alternative to that dreaded nail trim. The board is an oversized nail file that you then train your dog to use at their own pace. It’s a great way to build your dog’s confidence and strengthen your bond while keeping their nails in shape.Can I Use a Regular Nail File on My Dog’s Nails?While you could use a regular human nail file on your dog’s nails, it likely isn’t going to do the job. A dog’s nails are far stronger than our fingernails. Most emery boards and standard nail files will fail to make a dent in their surface, with many falling apart from the wear. If you want a nail file that can be used on your pet, I recommend purchasing a product specifically for dogs, like the Coastal Pet Safari Dog Diamond Nail File.What is a Scratch Board for Dogs?A scratch board is like a nail file; it provides a coarse surface that will help wear your dog’s nails down. The difference is that it is larger in size. Rather than bringing the file to a dog’s nails, the dog is trained to paw at the board and file their nails down. This means they are in complete control over when their nails touch the surface, which is much more comfortable for dogs that may suffer from stress or anxiety. It also means no one will need to handle their paws during nail care.Do Scratch Boards Work for Dog Nails?Yes! If your dog is taught to use a scratch board, they are a highly effective way of filing down their nails. This works much like how their ancestor’s nails would be worn down in the wild. As a dog runs and walks on rough surfaces or digs through coarse dirt, the tiny particles of dirt and stone wear away at the nail.Domesticated dogs may spend some time outdoors running around or digging, but many don’t engage in these behaviors as much as they would in the wild. They aren’t foraging for food daily or running to avoid predators and hunt down prey. This is why domestic dogs need regular nail maintenance, but wild dogs like wolves and coyotes function fine without this additional level of care.As your dog digs at or scratches the board, their nails run along the coarse surface. This allows you to fast-track the wear and tear they would naturally experience.Where Do I Get a Dog Scratch Board?You can purchase a nail board online or at your local pet store, depending on your preferences and budget. You can also DIY your own nail board. Some of the unique commercially made scratch boards you may want to consider for your dog include: Skuun Dog Scratch Pad for Nails: This is a veterinarian-approved board with an anti-slip surface and treat pocket. Zenly Paws Dog Nail File Toy: It combines a scratch pad with a food puzzle toy to make training your dog to file their nails easier and more enjoyable. LovIntry M-Shaped Dog Scratch Pad for Nails: The unique M-shaped design makes it easier to file the nails further back on your dog’s paws if they only file their front nails on a flat board.

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