The Cultural Heritage Administration says it will designate “Donggyeongi,” a breed of dog native in Gyeongu, as a natural monument.

The cultural agency said Thursday that it decided to make the designation since ancient books and documents mention the Donggyeongi was bred widely throughout Gyeongju.

The agency explained that clay figures of Donggyeongis were uncovered in ancient tombs of from the Silla Dynasty. It stressed that the breed holds historical value.

Donggyeongis have a very short tail or no tail at all. Korean native dog breeds the Jindo and Sapsal have previously been designated natural monument.