Jindo dogs are indeed considered to be a rare breed. Originating from South Korea, the Jindo is a medium-sized spitz-type dog known for its loyalty, intelligence, and strong hunting instincts. While they are quite popular and well-known in their home country, they are relatively scarce in other parts of the world.
One of the reasons for their rarity is the limited number of Jindo breeders outside of Korea. The breed is not as widely recognized or established as some other popular breeds, making it more challenging to find reputable breeders who specialize in Jindos. This means that those interested in obtaining a Jindo puppy often need to invest time and effort into researching and locating a responsible breeder.
Another factor contributing to their rarity is the strict regulations surrounding the exportation of Jindo dogs from Korea. The Korean government has implemented measures to protect the breed and prevent it from being diluted or negatively impacted by outside influences. As a result, exporting Jindos from Korea is heavily regulated and requires specific documentation and procedures, further limiting their availability in other countries.
Furthermore, the Jindo breed itself has a relatively small population globally. This, coupled with the limited number of breeders, contributes to the scarcity of Jindos. While some adult Jindos or Jindo mixes may occasionally find their way into rescue situations or shelters, it is generally more common to seek out a reputable breeder for a Jindo puppy.
In my personal experience, I have found that finding a Jindo puppy can be a challenging and time-consuming process. I had to conduct extensive research, reach out to various breeders, and sometimes even be placed on waiting lists for a considerable amount of time. The rarity of the breed also meant that the cost of purchasing a Jindo puppy was relatively higher compared to more common breeds.
The Korean Jindo is considered a rare breed, primarily due to the limited number of breeders outside of Korea, strict regulations on exporting, and the relatively small global population of Jindos. Those interested in owning a Jindo often need to invest effort in finding a reputable breeder and may face challenges such as longer wait times and higher costs.