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Taiwan Dog
Also known as Chien de Taiwan · Taiwan-Hund · Perro de Taiwan
Taiwan, Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 43–52 cm
- Weight
- 12–18 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Loyal
- Alert
- Intelligent
- Independent
- Wary of strangers
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Taiwan Dog
The Taiwan Dog is a primitive-type dog that lived alongside indigenous communities in Taiwan, who relied on it to hunt and guard. It is lean, athletic and medium-sized, with a short coat, prick ears and a sickle or curled tail. Coats are seen in black, brindle, fawn and white.
Temperament
Alert, loyal and intelligent, often wary of strangers and attached to its family. It is independent and quick to learn, and needs early socialisation and consistent training.
Exercise
Needs plenty of daily exercise and mental work, such as long walks, running and training games. It has a strong prey drive, so keep it on lead around wildlife.
Grooming
Short coat that sheds, needing only a weekly brush, with more during moult.
Care & wellbeing
Check ears, nails and teeth regularly. Keep it in a secure garden, as it is agile and may escape. Keep weight lean and talk to your vet about breed-appropriate health checks.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 15 kg adult- Water
- 600 ml–900 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 850 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
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 Taiwan Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A medium-sized primitive-type dog from Taiwan, historically used by indigenous communities for hunting. It is agile, alert and independent, with a strong prey drive and a wary attitude towards strangers.
Health
There's limited reliable published information on health issues in the Taiwan Dog. Breed clubs and your vet are the best sources.
Not every Taiwan 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
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Taiwan Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
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 Taiwan Dog get?
Adult Taiwan Dogs typically stand about 43–52 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 12–18 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Taiwan 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 Taiwan 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 Taiwan Dog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Taiwan Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Taiwan Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Taiwan 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 Taiwan Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Taiwan
- Type
- Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 2015