Korean Dosa Mastiff

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Korean Dosa Mastiff is also known as Korean Mastiff, Mee Kyun Dosa and Dosagyeon. It is a large and the heaviest dog breed that originated in Korea. It has a typical heavily wrinkled body and sluggish gait. It has a well balanced, gladiator like appearance that will seldom fail to get second glances, not only for its massive size but also for its shiny, very impressive and eye-catching red, orange or brown coat. This breed was developed to be a working dog in 1800s from Asian and European working breeds. Tosa Inu and the Dogue de Bordeaux are believed to be its foundation gene pole. In 19th century, English Mastiff, English Bulldog and Neopolitan Mastiff were added to its bloodlines. Likewise, it is also strongly believed that a small percentage of Bloodhound is also part of this massive breed's gene pole.

This large and massive dog stands between 23 to 30 inches and weighs between 145-185 lbs. It has a typical mastiff appearance with large head and heavily wrinkled body. Wide muzzle is square shaped and leads to a broad black nose. Broad ears are soft to touch and hang close to the head. Eyes are medium in size, set wide apart and are dark in colour. It has a rectangular shaped body. The short stocky neck is very muscular and covered with loose skin that forms dewlaps. Long and muscular shoulders are sloping. Back is broad and strong with well muscled loin. Wide round chest is deep. Thick and wide tail is set slightly lower than the topline. In action, the tail is raised just above the back. When the dog is at rest, the tail either hangs down straight or forms an "S" shape. Characteristically, the skin is loose all over the body and forms wrinkles on head and neck.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC or any other major kennel club.

Color

Preferred coat colours for this dog are dark brown and liver red to mahogany. White markings on chest are acceptable but considered disqualification if present any where else.

Coat

The short, silky and shiny coat is easy to groom.

Personality

Despite its fearsome and intimidating appearance, the Korean Dosa Mastiff is in fact a very sweet natured and gentle dog breed. A dignified, noble and loving dog, the Korean Dosa Mastiff forms an strong bond with its master and family and likes to be a huge lap dog. The dog is very affectionate, gentle and kind to children, gets along well with other dogs and pets in the family but reserved around strangers. Its tendency to lean on its favorite people makes it unsuitable around small children without supervision as it may step on or inadvertently knock them over due to its huge size. It is a rather indolent dog that will fit into an apartment life due to low activity levels. This dog is seldom seen galloping; instead walking and trotting are the dog's most usual gait. This huge dog is a natural deterrent to intruders with its fearsome appearance but to its family, it is a real gentle giant that will endear every one with its cool and calm temperament.

Care

Short and smooth coat has low grooming needs and once a week brushing will keep the coat clean. Folds of skin should be regularly cleaned. Bathing once a month should be enough to keep this dog clean. Puppies grow at a fast rate but their bone structure is not yet fully developed so they should be not be subjected to strenuous exercises. This lazy dog should be taken for daily walk. Small children should be supervised when the dog is interacting with them due to its huge size and tendency to "lovingly lean" on them.

Training

This intelligent and obedient breed should be easy to train due to its eager to please nature. As with any other breed, the trainer must display proper packleader skills.

Activity

This rather sluggish and lazy dog may not demand exercise but the owner should take it for daily walks. It has moderate levels of energy and daily walking will be sufficient to fulfill its exercise needs. The Korean Dosa Mastiff can be a very good walking or strolling companion.