
The Hmong Bobtail dog is a unique and fascinating breed. This ancient dog has been around for thousands of years, originating in the mountains of Southeast Asia.
Their distinctive short tail is a result of a natural genetic mutation that occurred over time. This mutation has been a defining characteristic of the breed since ancient times.
The Hmong Bobtail dog is a small to medium-sized dog, weighing between 15-30 pounds. They have a muscular build and a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming.
Their friendly and outgoing personalities make them a great companion for families and individuals alike. They are highly intelligent and easily trainable.
A unique perspective: Dog Bobtail
Breed Overview
The Hmong Bobtail Dog is a medium-sized spitz-type dog with a relatively stocky and muscular build. They have a large head and medium triangular ears.
Their double coat is made up of a soft and thick inner coat and a short rough outer coat. The Hmong Bobtail Dog can be gray, white, black, red, yellow, liver, or brindle in color.
Hmong Bobtail Dogs are highly energetic and can be easy to train. However, they aren't the most sociable toward other animals and strangers.
Here are some key facts about the Hmong Bobtail Dog breed:
Hmong Bobtail Dogs are robust and healthy, with long lifespans compared to many other dog breeds.
Physical Characteristics
The Hmong dog is a muscular dog with an impressive body and strength.
Its most distinguishing trait is a docked tail, which makes it look charming and appealing to many people.
The dog has a soft face, concave lines along its spine, and a flexible, robust, and wide back that allows it to move freely and pleasantly.
Well-developed ribs, a toned torso, and a large chest are other features that make the dog seem attractive.
Physical Characteristics of Dogs
The Hmong dog's physical characteristics make it a standout breed. Its docked tail is a distinguishing trait that many people find charming.
A muscular build and impressive body are also notable features of the Hmong dog. Its soft face adds to its appeal.
Discover more: Hmong Bobtail Dog
Concave lines along its spine give the dog a unique look. The dog's back is flexible, robust, and wide, allowing it to move freely and pleasantly.
Well-developed ribs and a toned torso are other features that make the Hmong dog attractive. A large chest is also a notable characteristic of this breed.
Fur Length & Color
The Hmong bobtail dog's fur is typically medium in length, with a soft and fluffy texture that's both warm and comfortable.
Their fur is often described as dense and plush, providing a great coat for the dog.
The Hmong bobtail dog's fur can come in a variety of colours, including black, white, brown, and grey.
Some dogs may have a combination of colours, such as black and white or brown and grey.
The fur may also have a slight wave or curl to it, adding to the dog's unique appearance.
The colour of the Hmong bobtail dog's fur can vary greatly, with no two dogs being exactly alike.
Black is the dominant colour, but there are also many dogs with brown or grey fur.
Some dogs may even have a reddish tint to their coat.
The colour of the fur can change slightly as the dog ages, with some dogs becoming lighter or darker over time.
Worth a look: Dog Food for White Dogs
Temperament and Intelligence of Vietnamese Dogs
The Vietnamese Hmong dog is a highly intelligent breed, making it a joy to train. Simply telling them what they're supposed to do a few times will get them to understand it quickly.
They are natural hunters who react well to training, and their strong associations with memory and smell make them excellent at navigating and sniffing out things.
These canines are widely recognized for their intelligence and ability to catch up on commands promptly, and they can be self-sufficient thinkers who can be difficult at times.
Hmong dogs are known to be very social and enjoy being around people and other animals, and they are highly motivated by food and treats, making them easy to train using reward-based techniques.
However, they can also be stubborn at times, and may require a more patient and persistent approach to training. With consistent and patient training, these dogs can become well-behaved and obedient pets.
Suggestion: All about Dogs Dog Training
Their high energy levels can sometimes make them difficult to train, but with the right approach, they can excel in a variety of activities such as agility and obedience competitions.
Their loyal personality makes them great family pets, and they may even look after their owner's belongings, including their dwelling.
Health and Longevity
The Hmong Bobtail dog is a unique breed that can thrive with proper care. They are known to live up to 12-15 years, which is a relatively long lifespan for a dog of their size.
Their average weight is around 7-10 pounds, but they can live a long and healthy life if fed a balanced diet. A good quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs can help support their overall health.
This breed is generally considered to be low maintenance, but regular exercise is still essential to keep them happy and healthy. A daily walk or playtime can help keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them a great choice for busy owners. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning can also help prevent health issues.
While they are generally a healthy breed, they can be prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation and dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify any potential issues early on.
Care and Maintenance
The Hmong Bobtail dog is a low-maintenance breed, requiring only occasional brushing to prevent matting and tangling of their short coats.
They are generally clean animals and don't require frequent bathing, but a weekly wipe down with a damp cloth can help keep their coats clean and shiny.
Their short coats also make them a good choice for people with allergies, as they shed very little.
The Hmong Bobtail dog is a relatively small breed, weighing between 7-15 pounds, so they don't require a lot of space to run around.

They are also quiet dogs, with a low bark frequency, making them a great choice for apartment dwellers.
Their calm and gentle nature also makes them a good choice for families with children, as they are patient and even-tempered.
The Hmong Bobtail dog is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, such as patellar luxation and dental problems.
Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help prevent these issues and keep your Hmong Bobtail dog healthy and happy.
Their short lifespan of 12-15 years means they will be a part of your family for a relatively short time, so be prepared to make the most of the time you have with them.
Cost and Availability
The price of Hmong bobtail pups can range from a few hundred thousand to millions of dong, which is equivalent to $40.37.
Depending on their appearance and size, the price can vary significantly, with some pups selling for as low as VND500,000.

Many people from other provinces visit the flea market to buy Hmong bobtail dogs, indicating a strong demand for the breed.
About 30 sellers, mainly Hmong people, bring the pups to the market every Sunday, offering a wide selection to potential buyers.
The peak time for buying and selling Hmong bobtail pups is from dawn to noon, making it a good idea to visit the market during this time if you're interested in purchasing one.
What's the Cost of a Dog?
The cost of a dog can be a significant expense, but it's essential to consider the initial purchase price and recurring costs. A Hmong puppy can cost anywhere from $250 to $1000, depending on the breeder and the dog's ancestry.
You'll also need to account for the average cost of dog ownership, which is $1,270 per year. This includes expenses like nourishment, vet care, and training.
Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue group can be a more affordable option, with adoption fees ranging from $100 to $400. This often includes services like neutering, immunizations, and microchipping.
Northern Highlands Flea Market

The Northern Highlands Flea Market is a bustling hub for buying and selling Hmong bobtail dogs. It's a weekly event that takes place every Sunday.
About 30 sellers, mainly Hmong people, bring their pups to the market, each with two to five adorable Hmong bobtail puppies for sale. The sellers often walk for miles to get there.
The price of these pups can range from a few hundred thousand to millions of dong, depending on their appearance and size. For example, a white dog was sold for around VND500,000.
Many people from other provinces visit this flea market to buy Hmong bobtail dogs, making it a popular destination for dog enthusiasts. It's not uncommon to see families with multiple children accompanying their parents to the market.
The market has its peak time from dawn to noon, which is the best time to visit if you're looking to buy a Hmong bobtail puppy.
Pet Suitability

If you're considering bringing a Hmong bobtail dog into your family, you'll be happy to know they're a great choice for families with children. They're friendly, loyal, and playful, making them a fun and active companion for kids.
Their intelligence and trainability also make them easy to teach and obedient, which is a big plus for families with little ones. They're not too large or too small, either, so they can thrive in apartments or houses with small yards.
One thing to keep in mind is that Hmong bobtail dogs can experience separation anxiety when left alone for long periods, so they'll need plenty of attention and interaction from their family members.
Take a look at this: Are Boxer Dogs Good Family Dogs
Vietnamese Puppies
If you're considering bringing home a Vietnamese puppy, you'll need to be prepared for a potentially costly and complex process. The dog itself might cost up to $3,000, but airfare to fly into Vietnam and back with the puppy will significantly increase the price.
Suggestion: Afghan Hound Puppy

You'll need to find a reputable breeder through a kennel club, such as the Vietnam Kennel Association. A responsible breeder will have all the necessary documentation for the puppy to travel.
The puppy should be fully vaccinated and checked by a vet, with vaccinations covering requirements for traveling to your country. Medical history is crucial when importing a puppy.
To ensure a smooth import process, you'll need to check your country's pet import regulations and Vietnam's regulations. This will likely include requirements for the rabies vaccine, which typically needs to be administered at 3 months of age with a 21-30 day waiting period before travel.
Some countries also require preventative treatment for Echinococcus, a species of tapeworm, 1-5 days before entry. Researching these regulations thoroughly is essential to avoid any issues.
Here's a summary of the key import regulations:
- Documents: A responsible breeder will have all necessary documentation for the puppy to travel.
- Medical history: The puppy should be fully vaccinated and checked by a vet.
- Rabies vaccine: Administered at 3 months of age with a 21-30 day waiting period.
- Echinococcus: Preventative treatment may be required 1-5 days before entry.
Are These Dogs Suitable for Families?
The Vietnamese Hmong Dog can make an excellent family dog, especially with older children who have been taught how to properly treat dogs.

Their high energy level makes them fun to play with, but it's essential to remember that they have a high prey drive, which may not be suitable for small children or pets like cats and rabbits.
Hmong bobtail dogs have a friendly and loyal temperament, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are known to be playful and energetic, providing a fun and active companion for kids.
However, their strong bonding with their owners can lead to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods, so it's crucial to consider this before bringing one home.
As a medium-sized breed, they are suitable for families living in apartments or houses with small yards, and their short, thick coat requires minimal grooming, which can be a plus for busy families.
With proper training and socialization, Hmong bobtail dogs can coexist peacefully with other pets in the household, but it's essential to introduce them slowly and carefully.
Their intelligence and trainability make them easy to teach and obedient, and they can even learn to assist with daily activities like fetching and picking up objects.
Overall, Hmong bobtail dogs can make a wonderful addition to a family with children, but it's essential to consider their needs and personality traits before making a decision.
Suggestion: Service Dog Vest for Small Dogs
Training and Behavior

Hmong bobtail dogs are highly active and require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They need at least two 40- to 60-minute walks every day to prevent destructive behavior.
Their high energy levels can make them difficult to train, but with the right approach, they can become well-behaved and obedient companions. A firm and consistent approach to obedience training is recommended.
Hmong bobtail dogs are intelligent and eager to please, and they respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are highly motivated by food and treats, making reward-based techniques effective.
They can be stubborn at times, so it's essential to start training from a young age and be patient and persistent. Consistent training will help them become quick learners and excel in activities like agility and obedience competitions.
It's crucial to spend time playing with your Hmong bobtail dog in addition to walks, as this gives them an outlet for their energy and helps form a closer bond. They shouldn't be kept locked up in a crate or kennel for long periods of time.
Due to their high prey drive, Hmong bobtail dogs should always be on a leash when out for a walk. Training and socializing this breed is imperative to ensure they grow into well-behaved pets.
For another approach, see: Dog Food for High Energy Dogs
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Hmong dogs rare?
Yes, the Hmong dog is considered one of the rarest dog breeds worldwide. Its unique origins and limited breeding make it a highly sought-after and exclusive breed.
Sources
- https://e.vnexpress.net/photo/places/at-a-northern-highlands-flea-market-bobtail-puppies-go-on-sale-4540942.html
- https://www.learnaboutnature.com/mammals/dogs/hmong-dog/
- https://www.hepper.com/vietnamese-hmong-dog/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hmong_bobtail_dog
- https://justusdogs.com.au/hmong-bobtail-dog-dog-breed-information-puppies-breeders/
Featured Images: pexels.com