History:
The Lai Dog is a "true" Vietnamese Dog, with depictions of its dog type being found on the Dong Son drum. In folk tales, it is believed that they are the descendants of hybridization between domestic dogs and golden jackals or dholes. However, its most critical point in history is during the Lam Son Uprising, where they served as war dogs to support Vietnamese soldiers. They helped them hunt for food, track enemy bases, served as road companions, and as distractions towards enemy bases in the night, and one dog was famed for saving the king's life. Other than their role as war dogs, they were also hunters, home guardians, and road companions. 

Note: Unlike the other Vietnamese breeds, the Lai Dog is not recognized by the VKA at this time.

Appearance:
Lai Dogs are medium sized and have two types of (double) coat: long and short. Longhaired dogs have a fluffier, longer outer coat with pronounced cheek and chest ruffs, while shorthaired dogs have a short, smooth coat that lies close to the body. They have large lanceolate ears and their ears can move freely like a radar, as well as a long pointy muzzle with their upper jaw being slightly longer than their lower jaw, and their face is triangular in shape. Their overall build is lean with a deep chest, long legs, and a brush tail. The breed comes in all colors.

Size:
Height (males): 53-58 cm (20.9-22.8 in)
Height (females): 50-55 cm (19.7-20.5 in)
Weight (males): 22-30 kg (48.5-66.1 lbs)
Weight (females): 18-26 kg (39.7-57.3 lbs)

Temperament: 
Lai Dogs are good working dogs due to their drive and enthusiasm. They are highly intelligent, have a lot of stamina, and have strong nerves, as well as being fearless. There is no aggression towards people, though they are aloof  with strangers, meaning they do not care for stranger's attention nor seek it. Lai Dogs are good watchdogs.

In terms of dog sociability, they tend to be more dog neutral-dog selective, though a few individuals are same-sex aggressive.