Ajumma's Journal: Korea Natural Treasure

The Jindo dog is not the only native dog which Korea can lay claim to, according to a recent news article. There's also the Sapsaree which was even designated as Natural Treasure No. 368 in 1992. It hasn't received official recognition by international canine clubs, though as controversy surrounds its pedigree.

Anyway, here are some reasons why I'd want a Sapsaree for this Christmas:

1. See the pics above and below. Now how can one resist such cute faces, whether they're puppies or mature doggies?

2. Looks aside, they're known for their loyalty. According to one source, "A 300-year-old stone memorial in southeastern South Korea tells the story of an aristocrat who took a nap on a riverbank after too many drinks at a party. Embers from his pipe started a brush fire as he slept. His faithful Sapsaree jumped into the river and used its wet fur to douse the fire and save its master at the cost of its own life.This loyalty, combined with the animal's gentle and quiet temperament, have made Sapsaree dogs ideal as therapy animals. They have been used for this in hospitals since 1999."

3. Unlike the Japanese who only appreciated its fur for winter coats ( which explains how the breed was driven to near extinction! ), the Shilla nobility enjoyed rearing these dogs which could have even been used as military dogs.