Dogs

Sapsali

The Sapsali or Sapsaree is a shaggy Korean breed of dog. Traditionally, these dogs were believed to dispel ghosts and evil spirits.

Appearance

Sapsalis are medium sized and slightly longer than tall. Their coat is long and abundant, and comes in solid fawn or grey. Their hair falls over the eyes in the same manner as that of the Old English Sheepdog. Although Sapsalis resemble herding dogs, they appear to have been bred exclusively as house dogs; their 'work' is spiritual rather than physical.

The Sapsali has been identified and recognized by both leading Korean dog societies, the Korean Canine Club (FCI affiliate) and the Korean Kennel Club, but the only Korean dog that has official international recognition is the Jindo.

Temperament

In Korea, they are famous for their gentle, protective, and loyal characters. They are friendly and playful with people they are familiar with, but aggressive towards strangers. Not being natural fighters, they are usually peaceful. However, when attacked, they are almost merciless, and they will not stop chasing their aggressor unless commanded to do so by their owners or until their stamina runs out.

Such characteristics may have contributed to their name. The name Sapsali can be divided into two parts: sap, meaning to chase or remove, and sal, meaning bad luck or evil; i is a part of the Korean language to attach behind a name.

References

• National Dog, Volume 7 Number 5, May 2004

External links

• sapsaree.org

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