Hmong Bobtail Dog
Also known as Chó H'Mông Cộc Đuôi · Hmong Stumpy Tail Dog · Aub Tsab Tws
Vietnam, Spitz and northern dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–54 cm
- Weight
- 16–26 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–16 yrs
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Protective
- Hardy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Hmong Bobtail Dog is a square, muscular, medium-sized spitz-type dog from the mountains of northern Vietnam. Its most striking feature is a naturally short tail, usually a few centimetres long, though some are born tailless or with full tails. The coat is short, hard and double, and the ears usually stand upright. It is one of Vietnam's four celebrated national breeds.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 46–54 cm
- Adult weight
- 16–26 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
13–16 years
Most Hmong Bobtail Dogs live 13–16 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
Hmong Bobtails are intelligent and devoted to their owners, and are famed for finding their way along complex mountain routes. They are reserved with strangers and protective of their territory, which makes them natural guards.
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Protective
- Hardy
Food
For a typical 21 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,100 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 840 ml–1.3 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 dayBred as hunting, herding and guard dogs in steep terrain, they need generous daily exercise and mental work. Hiking, tracking games and training sessions suit them well.
Grooming & shedding
The short double coat needs a weekly brush, more often during seasonal shedding. The tail is natural and is never docked.
Health
Their guarding instinct means early, broad socialisation is important, and they may not welcome visitors without introduction. Owners describe them as hardy and tolerant of heat and cold. Outside Vietnam the breed is rare, though a US club was founded in 2023.
The breed can be prone to
- Little published breed-specific health data; generally described as robust
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check
- Hip scoring
Not every Hmong Bobtail Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Much of the history is tradition rather than record. The dogs are thought to have travelled with the Hmong people as they moved south from China, many settling in the mountains of northern Vietnam after persecution in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. They are found today in provinces such as Hà Giang, Lào Cai and Yên Bái, and have also been taken on as border police and military dogs.
- 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 Hmong Bobtail Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
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 13–16 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.
Hmong Bobtail Dog FAQ
How big does a Hmong Bobtail Dog get?
Adult Hmong Bobtail Dogs typically stand about 46–54 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–26 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Hmong Bobtail Dogs live?
Typically 13–16 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 Hmong Bobtail 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 Hmong Bobtail Dog need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Hmong Bobtail Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Hmong Bobtail Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Hmong Bobtail 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 Hmong Bobtail 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 Hmong Bobtail Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to little published breed-specific health data; generally described as robust. Not every Hmong Bobtail 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.