Pet Wiki

Taiwan Dog

Also called Formosan Mountain Dog, Takasago Dog

A quick, intelligent and energetic dog that is extremely devoted to its owner.

SizeMedium
Weight12 to 18 kg (26 to 40 lb)males 14 to 18 kg, females 12 to 16 kg12
Height43 to 53 cm (17 to 21 in)males 48 to 53 cm, females 43 to 48 cm12
CoatShort, hard coat lying close to the body (1.5-3 cm)
OriginTaiwan, from the central mountain districts12
GroupSpitz and Primitive types (FCI group 5)
Recognised breedShort profile
deeply loyal
sharp senses and alert
bold and agile
12

Personality what they are like

A quick, intelligent and energetic dog that is extremely devoted to its owner. It learns fast and stays reserved with strangers, often forming its strongest bond with one person.12

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, hard coat lying close to the body (1.5-3 cm)

A lean, agile medium-sized dog with almond eyes, pricked triangular ears and a sickle tail. Its short, harsh coat hugs the body and gives it a clean, athletic outline.12

Coloursblackbrindlefawnwhitewhite and blackwhite and fawnwhite and brindle12

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. A native hunting dog that needs plenty of daily exercise and mental work.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The short, hard coat is easy to care for with occasional brushing.1

Home where they are happiest

Suits active owners who can offer secure outdoor space and regular outings.2

Company who they like around

Bonds very closely with its family; early socialisation helps it feel at ease around new people and places.2

The story where it all began

Taiwan Dogs descend from the hunting dogs kept by the island's indigenous peoples in the central mountains. From 1976 to 1980 researchers surveyed 29 indigenous villages, and a 1980 joint study by National Taiwan University with Gifu and Nagoya universities in Japan traced the dogs to South Asian hunting-dog ancestors. The FCI accepted the breed standard in 2015.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Many Taiwan Dogs have dark markings on the tongue.2

  2. 2

    It was chosen as the mascot of Taiwan's Chinese Professional Baseball League in 2019.2

  3. 3

    Taiwan's air force has tested it as a working guard dog because of its alertness.2

  4. 4

    It was traditionally used to hunt wild boar in the mountains.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed is named after its place of origin, Taiwan, and is also called the Formosan Mountain Dog, with 'Formosan' referring to the historical name for Taiwan, Formosa.2

Name ideas for your new friend

BaiChunDongFengHuaJadeKaiLeiMeiShanTaiXin

A day in the life told by a Taiwan Dog

I wake and watch my human sleep, my loyal heart full of love. When they stir, I wag my tail, ready for our day. We go to the park, and I stay close, always alert. A stranger approaches, and I stand guard, but my human says 'friend,' so I relax. We play with a ball, and I run fast, my muscles strong. At home, I sit by the window, watching the world. My human is my everything. At night, I curl at their feet, dreaming of our bond.

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

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 348, Group 5, Section 7 (Primitive type, hunting dogs); standard published 9 Jun 20151

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 Taiwan Dog, and at what times?

Feed your Taiwan Dog at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Consistent mealtimes help with digestion and routine.3

What should a Taiwan Dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as listed by the ASPCA.4

How often should I bathe a Taiwan Dog?

Bathe your Taiwan Dog about every 8 weeks, or as needed if they get dirty. The short coat doesn't need frequent baths, and over-bathing can dry the skin.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Taiwan Dog need brushing?

Brush your Taiwan Dog weekly to remove loose hair and keep the short coat healthy. A weekly brushing session is enough for this easy-care coat.5 Pet Wiki plan

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

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Taiwan Dog need?

This energetic hunting dog needs plenty of daily exercise and mental challenges. Plan for long walks, playtime, and activities that engage their mind every day.12 Pet Wiki plan

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

Brush your dog's teeth several times a week using a dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears weekly for dirt or moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal; just wipe the outer ear gently.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Taiwan Dog live?

Lifespan varies by individual health and care. Ask your vet or a reputable breeder for the typical range for this breed.

Is a Taiwan Dog good with children and other pets?

With early socialisation, a Taiwan Dog can be good with respectful children and familiar pets. They tend to bond strongly with one person and may be reserved with strangers, so supervision and gradual introductions are key.2

Can a Taiwan Dog be left alone?

This devoted dog forms a close bond with its owner and may struggle with long periods alone. Provide plenty of mental stimulation and company, and consider crate training or a pet sitter if you're away often.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.

You might also like

Thai RidgebackPhu Quoc RidgebackCanaan Dog

Where this comes from

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

  1. FCI breed standard No. 348: Taiwan Dog fci.beused for origin, recognition, size, coat, colours, temperament, history
  2. Wikipedia: Taiwan Dog en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history dates, temperament, fun facts
  3. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  4. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

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