There is primarily one recognized breed of Jindo dog, but there is some variation within the breed. Some people use colloquial terms to describe the slightly different body types found in Jindos. The “gyupgae” (also called “tonggul”) is stockier and more muscular, the “heutgae” (also called “hudu”) is leaner, and the “gakgol” is a blend of the two.

Jindos usually stop growing around 12 to 18 months of age, although they might continue to fill out and develop muscle mass until they are around two to three years old.

On average, Jindos live about 14 to 15 years. As with any breed, individual Jindos can vary in their lifespan depending on their genetics, diet, exercise, health care, and lifestyle.

Jindo dogs are from Jindo Island, located off the southwest coast of South Korea. The Jindo is named after the island where they developed naturally many centuries ago. Jindo Island has rugged terrain and a harsh climate, so Jindo dogs developed resilience and adaptability.

Yes, Jindos are good family dogs in the right environment. The Jindo is incredibly loyal, going to great lengths to protect their family and return to their homes if separated. In Korea, they were traditionally kept outside of the home, so early socialization and training can help teach them how to behave inside the home. 

Jindos are active dogs who require regular exercise to remain physically and mentally stimulated. Providing daily walks, playtime, and opportunities for exploration can help prevent boredom and behavioral issues.

No, Jindos are not always good with cats. Jindos have a high prey drive, which means they may have a tendency to chase small animals, including cats. Ultimately, whether a Jindo is good with cats can vary from dog to dog. Some Jindos might coexist peacefully with cats if they are raised together from a young age, but it’s essential to supervise interactions between Jindos and cats.

No, not all Jindos are good with other dogs. Jindos can display dominant behaviors toward other dogs, especially those of the same sex or unfamiliar dogs. Attempts to move up in pack order might manifest in posturing, guarding resources, or attempting to assert control during interactions. With proper socialization and training, Jindos can live peacefully with other dogs, particularly if they are introduced to them at a young age. Opposite-sex pairings are recommended.

Yes, Jindos are smart. They are known for their problem-solving abilities, quick learning, and independent thinking. That said, Jindos can be challenging to train, as they might question commands or try to determine the benefit of following them. However, with consistent and positive training methods, Jindos can excel in obedience and various activities.

Yes, Jindo dogs can be affectionate, but their level of affection can vary from dog to dog. Some are more reserved or independent, while others are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their human family members. Jindos form strong bonds with their families and can be fiercely loyal. They might show their affection by leaning against their people, following them around the house, or seeking physical contact such as cuddling and being petted.

No, Jindos are not good for first-time pet parents. The Jindo is a challenging breed due to its independent nature, strong-willed personality, high prey drive, and above-average exercise needs. First-time pet parents might find it more manageable to start with a breed known for being easily trainable and adaptable to various lifestyles.

No, Jindos are not good apartment dogs in general, although they might be able to adapt to apartment living under certain conditions. Jindos need a lot of outdoor exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. They also need sufficient space to move around and stretch their legs. Jindos are also alert and protective and might bark excessively in an apartment setting when they hear or see many different people or unusual sounds.

Yes, Jindos are active dogs who enjoy regular exercise and physical activity. Jindos have a history as hunting and working dogs, which has contributed to their need for physical and mental stimulation. They enjoy activities such as brisk walks, runs, hikes, and interactive play sessions. Providing opportunities for exercise and exploration prevents boredom and behavioral issues.

Some Jindos might like water, while others may be more hesitant or cautious around water. Whether a Jindo enjoys water activities can depend on their individual personality, past experiences with water, and the level of exposure they’ve had to water.

No, Jindo dogs are not inherently aggressive. Although they have strong prey drives, are known for their protective instincts, and can be aloof or wary around strangers (especially if they perceive a threat to their territory or family), aggression is not a characteristic of the breed when they are properly bred, trained, socialized, and cared for.

If you are concerned by any signs of aggression or reactivity in your dog, be sure to address it promptly with the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist. Pain, discomfort, or underlying medical conditions can sometimes contribute to changes in a dog’s behavior, so it may also be worth visiting a vet to rule out their health as a cause for their behavior.

Yes, Jindos can be good with kids with proper training, socialization, and supervision. Their behavior around kids depends on their upbringing, socialization, and individual temperament. Teaching children how to behave around dogs, such as being gentle, respecting the dog’s space, and not bothering them while they eat or sleep, can help prevent misunderstandings or accidents.

Pet parents of any breed of dog and parents of children should always supervise interactions between any dogs and kids to ensure that both the dog and the child understand how to behave appropriately around each other.

Yes, Jindos are hard to train and need an experienced, patient trainer. They are highly intelligent dogs and quickly pick up on commands and routines. However, their independent streak means they are less inclined to follow commands. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when training Jindos.

Yes, Jindos bark, but they are one of the quieter dog breeds. Jindos might bark to alert their people to potential intruders or to express excitement, anxiety, or boredom. Additionally, Jindos have a strong prey drive, so they might bark if they see wildlife or other animals.

No, Jindo dogs don’t have a lot of health problems. The breed is healthy and robust, but like all purebred dogs, they are prone to certain genetic health issues, including:

• Cataracts: Cataracts is a common eye condition that causes cloudiness in the eye and obstructs vision.

• Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE): DLE is a condition that primarily affects the skin of dogs. It is an autoimmune disease where the dog’s immune system attacks its own skin cells.

• Hypothyroidism: Jindos, like many other breeds, can be prone to thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism, which can affect metabolism and overall health.

No, Jindo dogs are not hypoallergenic. No dog breed is completely hypoallergenic, but some breeds are less likely to trigger allergies in people who are sensitive to pet dander. Hypoallergenic breeds typically have a coat that sheds minimally or produces less dander, which is the primary allergen for most people allergic to dogs. Jindos have a double coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily twice a year.