Description
The Jindo dog is the only breed in the world that is cared for, funded and technically owned by a government. The Korean Government has designated the breed as a national treasure and therefore works to ensure the breed is responsibly bred and that all breeding is in line with breed standard. Until the 1970s, Jindo Island was separated from mainland Korea by a hazardous expanse of water and this geographical isolation was a major factor in retaining the purity of the breed.
The Jindo is a medium-sized hunting dog, exceptionally loyal to its master and with remarkable homing instincts. Stories exist of Jindos travelling hundreds of miles to return home to a previous owner. As a primitive breed, the Jindo hunted in packs, its prey being wild boar and deer. They are hardy, develop great devotion with their owner but can be wilful and stubborn.
Breed Group
Utility
Vulnerable Native Breed
No
Size
Medium
How much exercise?
Up to 1 hour per day
Length of coat
Medium
How much grooming?
More than once a week
Supposedly sheds?*
Yes
Town or Country
Either
Type of home
Small or Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Small/Medium
Lifespan
Over 10 Years
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on
the Kennel Club website.
The Utility Breed Group
This group consists of miscellaneous breeds of dog mainly of a non-sporting origin, including the Bulldog, Dalmatian, Akita and Poodle.
The name ‘Utility’ essentially means fitness for a purpose and this group consists of an extremely mixed and varied bunch, most breeds having been selectively bred to perform a specific function not included in the sporting and working categories. Some of the breeds listed in the group are the oldest documented breeds of dog in the world.