Petopedia
Korea Jindo Dog: Korean Jindo Dog

Korea Jindo Dog

Also known as Jindo Coreen · Koreanischer Jindo

Korea (Republic of), Asian Spitz and related breeds

Size
Medium
Height
46–55 cm
Weight
15–23 kg
Life expectancy
12–15 yrs
  • Loyal
  • Independent
  • Intelligent
  • Alert
  • Strong-willed
Energy4 of 5
Grooming needs3 of 5
Trainability3 of 5

Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.

About the Korea Jindo Dog

The Korea Jindo Dog is a medium-sized spitz-type dog from Jindo Island, South Korea, used for hunting and guarding, and well known for loyalty. It has a wedge-shaped head, pricked ears, a curled tail and a double coat in fawn, white, or other colours. It is regarded as a national treasure in Korea. It is a hardy and independent breed.

Temperament

Loyal, independent and intelligent, often devoted to one person. It can be wary of strangers and has a strong prey drive. It is clever and can be stubborn, so early socialisation matters.

Exercise

Needs at least an hour of daily exercise, ideally including mental activity. It is an escape artist, so secure fencing is crucial.

Grooming

Double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. Brush weekly, and more often during the shedding periods.

Care & wellbeing

Keep on a lead outdoors as it may chase wildlife or other animals. Provide secure fencing and mental activity. Maintain healthy weight and dental care.

Daily needs at a glance

For a typical 19 kg adult
Water
760 ml–1.1 L
a day
Energy
≈ 1,020 kcal
a day, neutered adult
Exercise
90–120 min
a day
Grooming
Brushing a few times a week

Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet

Living with a Korea Jindo Dog

Shedding4 of 5
Good with children3 of 5
Apartment living2 of 5

Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.

History

A medium-sized spitz-type dog from Jindo Island in South Korea, used for hunting and guarding. It is famed for loyalty to its owner and for its independent, alert and clean character.

Health

The breed can be prone to

Health tests to ask a breeder about

  • Hip scores
  • Knee checks

Not every Korea Jindo Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.

Cost to keep

About average
  • Moderate food and insurance costs
  • Little or no professional grooming needed
  • A 12–15 year commitment
  • Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance

A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.

Is a Korea Jindo Dog right for you?

Could suit

  • Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking

Think twice if

  • You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day

Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.

Common questions

How big does a Korea Jindo Dog get?

Adult Korea Jindo Dogs typically stand about 46–55 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 15–23 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.

How long do Korea Jindo Dogs live?

Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.

How much exercise does a Korea Jindo Dog need?

As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.

How much grooming does a Korea Jindo Dog need?

Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.

Are Korea Jindo Dogs easy to train?

Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.

Do Korea Jindo Dogs shed?

Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.

Are Korea Jindo Dogs good with children?

Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.

Can a Korea Jindo Dog live in a flat?

It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.

What health problems do Korea Jindo Dogs have?

The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, skin allergies. Not every Korea Jindo Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.

Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.

Breed details

Country of origin
Korea (Republic of)
Type
Asian Spitz and related breeds
Internationally recognised
2005