Jindo

 The Jindo was originally bred on the Island of Jindo in Southwest Korea several centuries ago. They were bred to hunt wild boars, rabbits, badgers, and deer, working in groups or on their own. It is characteristic for the Jindo to bring down its prey, then to return to its owner to lead him/her to its catch. Jindos first started to appear in the United States in the 1980s. The Jindo is protected by Korean Law as a national monument. Their legendary loyalty and affection for their masters, fastidious nature, high intelligence, and unfailing courage have made the Jindo the most popular breed of dog in Korea. 

 Almost all Jindos possess strong wills (even the ones that seem deceptively compliant) and have independent minds. They love to roam and are quite the free spirits. They tend to be the dominate type, trying to get things their own way, and and can be very protective of their loved ones and territory.

 The Jindo has a double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. During the shedding season, extra care must be given to the coat. Warm baths can help the process along. Daily brushing is necessary to remove the undercoat. Otherwise, be prepared for rolling tumbleweeds of undercoat. 

 The Jindo is a relatively healthy dog. Hypothyroidism can be a problem. 

 Jindos need room to move. These dogs love to roam and investigate their territory (which to them, is fairly expansive). Unless well-trained on recall, it is highly recommended that Jindos be walked on lead at all times because of their prey drive. A minimum of two, 30-minute brisk walks are necessary and should be enough to keep a Jindo happy. While on the walk be sure to not allow the dog to walk in front of the human, as it is a canine instict for the leader to go first. Although Jindos are not famous for their fetching abilities, they can be trained to fetch which is also an excellent form of exercise.

 They are excellent watchdogs and will guard the home and family to the death if necessary. Early socialization to friendly strangers, other dogs, cats, and especially children is strongly recommended because Jindos are instinctively protective and have high prey drives. Because of their prey drives, they are usually not reliable around smaller animals such as hamsters and rabbits.