Overview
The Jeju dog is native to Jeju island off the south coast of Korea, where it was used to hunt deer, badger and pheasant. It is a medium-sized, athletic dog with a wedge-shaped head, pricked ears and a short tan or fawn coat, closer in type to the Jindo than to any European breed. It nearly vanished in the twentieth century and remains rare even in Korea.
Like most Korean and Japanese native dogs it is loyal to one household, reserved with outsiders, clean and quiet at home, and driven by prey outdoors. Documentation of the breed in Western pet homes is thin, so lean heavily on the owner.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes a day with room to move and things to investigate. They are built for stamina over rough ground and will become restless with short pavement circuits. Hilly or wooded routes on a long line suit them.
They cope with heat better than the thick-coated northern spitz types and are fine in most British weather.
On the walk
- Prey drive: Strong. Rabbits, squirrels, cats and birds will be pursued and the dog will not stop for your voice. Lead or long line unless fully fenced.
- Strangers: Reserved and watchful. The dog may avoid your hand or stand off at first; let it come to you.
- Other dogs: Can be aloof or dominant with unfamiliar dogs, particularly of the same sex. Introductions should be slow and sideways.
- Escape: Primitive breeds are good climbers and diggers. Check fences in any field you use.
Tips for professional walkers
- Build trust through several short visits before taking the dog out alone.
- Use a harness with a secure fit; agile dogs twist out of loose ones.
- Avoid narrow paths and busy dog areas until you know how it reacts.
- Report anything the dog seems frightened of so the owner can work on it.
What to ask the owner
- How long has the dog lived here, and what has it already encountered on walks?
- Does it accept being handled by new people, and how should I approach it?
- Has recall ever worked outside a fenced area, and does it chase?