Bắc Hà Dog
Also known as Chó Bắc Hà · Bac Ha Dog
Vietnam, Spitz and northern dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 50–58 cm
- Weight
- 18–28 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Loyal
- Protective
- Intelligent
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Bắc Hà Dog is a medium-sized, thick-coated spitz-type dog from the mountains of Lào Cai province in northern Vietnam, where it is kept by the Hmong people. It has a broad head, a mane of fur round the neck and a heavily feathered tail. It is counted among Vietnam's four native national breeds and is rarely found outside the country.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 50–58 cm
- Adult weight
- 18–28 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Bắc Hà Dogs live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Bắc Hà dogs are loyal and protective of their families, as befits a hunting and guarding dog. They learn quickly, but their watchfulness means good socialisation with visitors is important.
- Loyal
- Protective
- Intelligent
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 23 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,180 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 920 ml–1.4 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThey are active hunting dogs that need daily walks, play and the chance to explore. Hill walking suits them well.
Grooming & shedding
The dense double coat needs brushing a couple of times a week, and more often during seasonal shedding. Their heavy coat can make them uncomfortable in hot, humid weather.
Health
Outside Vietnam these dogs are extremely hard to find. Like other spitz breeds they can be vocal and independent, so patient reward-based training works best. Health information is limited.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific health problems
- Heat stress in hot weather because of the thick coat
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary examination before breeding
Not every Bắc Hà Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The breed is thought to descend from mountain dogs of southern China that travelled with the Hmong when they settled in the highlands of northern Vietnam. Local legend credits a wild dhole with giving the dogs their red coats and fierce spirit. In recent years the breed has appeared at Vietnamese native-breed shows.
- Country of origin
- Vietnam
- Type
- Spitz and northern dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Vietnam Kennel Association; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Bắc Hà Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Bắc Hà Dog FAQ
How big does a Bắc Hà Dog get?
Adult Bắc Hà Dogs typically stand about 50–58 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–28 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Bắc Hà Dogs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Bắc Hà Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Bắc Hà Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Bắc Hà Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Bắc Hà Dogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Bắc Hà Dogs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Bắc Hà Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Bắc Hà Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific health problems, heat stress in hot weather because of the thick coat. Not every Bắc Hà Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.