Caring for Your Taiwan Dog: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

by Taylor Morgan. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Sep 15, 2024

Introduction

The Taiwan Dog is a rare and ancient breed that originated on the island of Taiwan. Also known as the Taiwan Native Dog, this breed has been native to Taiwan for thousands of years and was once a common sight throughout the country. Today, they are considered one of the world's most endangered dog breeds, with only a few dozen purebred dogs remaining.

Despite its rarity, the Taiwan Dog is an interesting and remarkable breed that holds a lot of cultural significance in Taiwan. However, their specific needs and characteristics require special attention from potential owners. In this article, we'll delve into the general care, issues, feeding, behavior, grooming, and considerations for pet parents who are interested in bringing home a Taiwan Dog.

General Care

The Taiwan Dog is a robust and healthy breed that can thrive in various living conditions. However, they do require regular exercise and social interaction to prevent boredom and stress. Here are some general care tips for owning a Taiwan Dog:

• Space: While not overly demanding of space, Taiwan Dogs need enough room to roam freely and engage in physical activity. A spacious backyard or daily walks are a must to ensure their physical and mental health.
• Exercise: Regular exercise is essential for Taiwan Dogs, as they can weigh anywhere from 40-70 pounds (18-32 kg). They should be taken on at least one daily walk of about 30 minutes to an hour, along with regular playtime in the backyard or yard.
• Socialization: Socialization plays a crucial role in any dog's development. Taiwan Dogs can become wary of strangers if not socialized properly, which may cause behavioral issues later in life.

Taiwan Dog Issues

Like all breeds, Taiwan Dogs are prone to specific health and training problems that potential owners should be aware of:

• Social Anxiety: Taiwan Dogs have been known to develop social anxiety due to their lack of interaction with other canines and humans. Early socialization is essential to avoid this problem.
• Vocalization: Taiwan Dogs bark frequently, especially when they feel nervous or threatened. Training them to stop barking requires patience and consistency.
• Fearfulness: Given their isolated upbringing, Taiwan Dogs may exhibit fearfulness towards strangers, other animals, or new environments.

Feeding a Taiwan Dog

The feeding habits of Taiwan Dogs require specific attention to ensure optimal health:

• Weight: Due to their robust build, Taiwan Dogs need enough food to maintain their weight. Feeding two to three meals a day is recommended, with high-quality kibble that meets their caloric requirements.
• Nutrition: A balanced and nutritious diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals is key for maintaining the health of Taiwanese native dogs.

Feeding Options

While Taiwan Dogs require regular feeding sessions, there are healthy eating options available to maintain their nutritional needs:

• Whole grains
• Raw foods
• Home-cooked meals