Jeju dog
From South Korea comes the Jeju dog. The Jeju dog comes from South Korea. Individual Jeju dogs vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- South Korea
About the Jeju dog
From South Korea comes the Jeju dog. jeju dog is a rare breed native to Jeju Island. Known for its distinctive appearance and adaptability.
Overview
The Jeju Dog ( Korean : μ μ£Όκ° ) is a breed of dog that was brought back from the edge of extinction in 1986, when only three of them were found on the entire island of Jeju in South Korea . Since then, an aggressive campaign of breeding has yielded a current population of close to 300. However, the ''pure bred'' Jeju Dog population is only estimated to be at about 69 as of September 2010. In 2010, Korea designated the Jeju Dog as a national heritage animal, which will allow for subsequent national protection. Before this, not enough animals remained to allow for such a distinction. Protection initiatives include a 2017 auction held by the Jeju Livestock Institute for those interested in adopting one of the 20 puppies. According to the institute, the goal was to continue to breed and preserve the Jeju Dog after being criticized for selling the puppies.
History
Jeju dogs may have originated in China , moved south along the peninsula, and came to Jeju Island. Who brought the animals to the island and what their original purpose was are unclear. Moreover, when Jeju Dogs were brought to South Korea, they became military dogs, and when no longer military, people often ate them, which is the primary cause of the breed being endangered. Some sources cite how the Japanese during the Korean colonization ordered the slaughter of dogs indigenous to Korea and contributed to the near-extinction of the breed. In 2010, it was announced that there would be an effort to nominate them as a Korean national monument.
Characteristics
The dog is considered the largest dog breed indigenous to Korea. The dog breed is usually 49β55 centimeter long, 12β16 kilogram in weight and has an average lifespan of 15 years. Jeju Dogs have wide and pointed foreheads. In many ways, the females look like foxes in terms of their length and width, while the males look almost identical to wolves . They are also similar to the Korean Jindo Dogs in terms of color and size. The primary difference being that Jeju Dogs have tails that are pointed up like brooms. They have tawny brown hair. They have a reputation for being loyal guard dogs and have an acute sense of smell and hearing. They are curious and aggressive when ordered to attack a prey, making them suitable for hunting. They have been known to hunt pheasants, deer, and badgers.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Jeju dog?
The Jeju dog is the largest dog breed indigenous to Korea. It typically measures 49-55 centimeters in length and weighs 12-16 kilograms. The breed has a wide and pointed forehead, with females resembling foxes in terms of their length and width, and males having a more robust build.
Is the Jeju dog a good family dog?
As a large breed, Jeju dogs may require more space and exercise than smaller breeds. However, with proper training and socialization, they can make loyal and loving companions for families. Their gentle nature and relatively calm temperament make them suitable for families with children, but early socialization is crucial.
What health problems do Jeju dogs have?
Like many breeds, Jeju dogs are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on. Responsible breeding practices and proper care can also minimize the risk of these health problems.
How much does a Jeju dog puppy cost?
The cost of a Jeju dog puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. As a rare breed, Jeju dog puppies may be more expensive than those of more common breeds. However, exact pricing information is not publicly available, and potential buyers should research reputable breeders and negotiate prices accordingly.
Where do Jeju dogs come from?
The Jeju dog comes from South Korea. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Jeju dog, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.