Pet Wiki

Nureongi

Also called Korean Yellow Spitz, Hwanggu, Korean yellow dog

Rare breedShort profile

From South Korea; a native landrace found across the Korean peninsula.12

At a glance the quick version

Weight18 to 25 kg2
Height50 to 55 cm2
Sizemedium

Landrace; figures from Korean Wikipedia, no official standard.

athletic and agile
alert and watchful
hardy native dog
2

Coat and looks how to spot one

double coat

A medium-sized spitz-type dog with a rectangular body, upright ears and an erect tail. Its double coat has longer guard hair over a soft, dense undercoat.2

Coloursyellowgolden12

Personality what they are like

An agile, athletic dog with a strong watchful streak and natural hunting ability; it tends to be pack-minded.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Energetic and athletic; needs regular daily exercise.2

Company who they like around

Naturally pack-oriented and comfortable living in groups.2

The story where it all began

The Nureongi is a common, non-standardised yellow dog of the Korean peninsula, historically kept on farms, including for meat. In January 2024 South Korea passed a law ending the dog-meat industry, taking effect in 2027.13

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its name means 'yellow one' in Korean.1

  2. 2

    It is also known as Hwanggu, written 黃狗 in Hanja.1

  3. 3

    South Korea's 2024 law ending the dog-meat industry comes into full effect in 2027.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The name 'Nureongi' comes from the Korean word 'nureong' meaning 'yellow one,' referring to the breed's yellowish coat. It is also known as 'Hwanggu' (황구; 黃狗), which literally means 'yellow dog.'1

Name ideas for your new friend

HwangSunnyMisoTofuBoriDaeSoraNuriJinHanaKongMochi

A day in the life told by a Nureongi

I wake up and stretch, my yellow coat glowing in the morning light. I sniff the air, no danger, just the smell of rice cooking. I pad over to my human and nudge their hand. Time for our run. We jog along the river path, and I keep a sharp eye on everything: birds, bicycles, other dogs. I'm always watching. Afterward, I lie in the sun on the balcony, tail curled over my nose. A squirrel dares to cross the yard. I don't chase, I just watch. I'm a guardian, calm and strong. When my human comes home, I greet them with a soft woof and a wag.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Major kennel clubs
A landrace, not recognised by the major kennel club associations.2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Nureongi. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Nureongi, and at what times?

Feed your Nureongi at least two meals a day, with puppies needing three to four smaller meals. A consistent schedule, such as morning and evening, helps their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and consult your vet.4

What should a Nureongi eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A Nureongi does best on a balanced dog food. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always keep these away from your dog.5

How often should I bathe a Nureongi?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your Nureongi gets dirty or has skin issues.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Nureongi need brushing?

Brush your Nureongi's double coat weekly to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Furry Diary's plan suggests brushing every seven days.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Nureongi's nails, and how often?

Trim your Nureongi's nails about once a month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a small amount at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Nureongi need?

Your Nureongi is energetic and athletic, so it needs daily exercise like walks and playtime. Aim for at least 30, 60 minutes of activity each day to keep it happy and healthy.2 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Nureongi's teeth and ears?

Brush your Nureongi's teeth two to three times a week using dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and gently dry them if needed. Never insert anything into the ear canal.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Nureongi live?

The lifespan of a Nureongi varies by individual and care. For a reliable estimate, ask your vet or a reputable breeder.

Is a Nureongi good with children and other pets?

Nureongis are pack-minded and can be good with other dogs, but their hunting instinct may make them cautious with small pets. Early socialization with children and other animals is important. For specific advice, talk to a breeder or trainer.2

Can a Nureongi be left alone?

Nureongis are pack-oriented and prefer company, so they may not do well left alone for long periods. If you must leave them, provide toys and consider a dog walker. Start training early to build independence.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wikipedia: Nureongi en.wikipedia.orgused for names, colour, origin
  2. Korean Wikipedia: 누렁이 ko.wikipedia.orgused for size, weight, coat, temperament, recognition
  3. Wikipedia: Dog meat consumption in South Korea en.wikipedia.orgused for landrace status, 2024 law
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.