There are breeds like the Labrador Retriever that are routinely voted as most popular not only in the United States but the world over. And then there are rare, more exotic breeds like the Hmong Dog that not many people have heard about. Keep reading to learn more about this dog breed that is slowly becoming popular all over the world. This information will help you decide if a Hmong Dog could be the right pet for your family.
Hmong Dogs are a cross between jungle wolves and dogs that were native to South East Asia. They got their name because they were hunting companions to the Hmong people in Vietnam. It was a common practice to cut off their tails and ears because the Hmong people believed this would make them fierce hunters. For this reason, these dogs are also called Hmong Docked-Tail Dogs. They are known for their sharp hunting instincts, physical strength, and loyalty. Domesticated Hmong Dogs in Vietnam are used to protect livestock and also as police dogs and border patrol dogs.
A Hmong Dog has a very distinctive appearance. These compact, medium-sized dogs have a short dense coat that is white, brown or black in color. The average Hmong Dog is 35-55 pounds in weight and 18-22 inches tall. These dogs have a squishy face, almond eyes, large erect ears, and docked tails (absent or short 1- to 2-inch tail) that give them a very cute appearance. But given their wolf lineage, they also have toned bodies, a prominent chest, and strong bones. In Vietnam, Hmong Dogs are called cat dogs, but despite this nickname, they are not friendly towards cats (read why some people think dogs are better than cats).
Hmong Dogs are good pets provided they are a good match for your family (read tips on finding the perfect dog breed for your family). These dogs are naturally strong and muscular with good strength and stamina. They are intelligent and loyal and are generally friendly if properly socialized as puppies. Given their origin, Hmong Dogs are highly territorial and protective. Early training is key to controlling aggressive tendencies in these dogs. The good thing is that Hmong Dogs are intelligent, obedient, and quick learners. Many Hmong Dog owners report that they can go on a 5-mile trek once with their owner and find their way back unaccompanied. These dogs are born hunters and can survive and protect themselves in the wild. Hmong Dogs enjoy robust health and are generally easy to care for.
However, before bringing home a Hmong Dog, you should know that this dog requires frequent exercise. Boredom can cause a Hmong Dog to become destructive, aggressive, or develop separation anxiety (here are some tips on keeping your dog busy when you’re away). If you do bring home a Hmong Dog, you can look forward to many years of companionship as these dogs typically have a lifespan of 15-20 years. They can adapt to a variety of climates.
The cost of a Hmong Dog puppy is $3,000 on average. This price is not unusual for a rare breed. Hybrids may cost slightly less. There are only 1,000 Hmong Dogs living worldwide and only a third of them are purebred.
11 February, 2023