Sapsali

Sapsaree (삽살견)

Other names	Sapsal Gae Sapsaree
Nicknames	Exorcising Dog Ghost hunting clever Dog
Country of origin	Korea
Traits
Classification and standards Not recognized by any major kennel club
Dog (Canis lupus familiaris)

The Sapsal is a shaggy Korean breed of dog. The word is followed in Korean by either gae (meaning "dog") or the suffix ee/i, but is most commonly romanized as "Sapsaree". Traditionally, these dogs were believed to dispel ghosts and evil spirits.

Description

Sapsaree, just like Korean Jindo dog, was designated as a National Treasure (No.368) in 1992 by the Korean Government. The Sapsaree has been identified and recognized by both leading Korean dog societies, the Korean Canine Club (FCI affiliate) and the Korean Kennel Club.

Appearance

The Sapsaree has been called "a lion dog" for its bulky and strong upper body and its large and imposing paws. Sapsarees are medium sized and slightly tall. Their adult coat is long and abundant, and comes in various colors including solid and/or mixed shades of black, golden yellowish-blonde, reddish-orange, browns, and salt-and-pepper greys. Their hair falls over the eyes in the same manner as that of the Old English Sheepdog.

Temperament

The Sapsaree's friendly outer appearance is matched by its innate patience and congeniality towards other animals and human beings. They are known to be playful in a group setting and has long been acknowledged and valued for its loyalty.

Height & Weight

Male: 50–58 cm (20–23 in) / 18–28 kg (40-62 lbs)
Female: 48–55 cm (19–22 in) / 16–25 kg (35-55 lbs)

History

The breed was very popular among aristocrats of Silla and may have been used as military dogs.

See also

• Korean Jindo Dog
• Pungsan Dog
• Korean Mastiff

References

• National Dog, Volume 7 Number 5, May 2004
• [1]

External links

• sapsaree.org
• Photos [2] [3] [4]