While Japan is known for many things – among them sumo wrestling, anime, and of course sushi – some of the most endearing aspects of the culture come in the form of their amazing dog breeds.
Because Japan is an island, it has dog breeds that are very similar to each other, but relatively unique in the world. Nonetheless, each of these dogs have their unique traits that will surely leave a paw print in your hearts.
Whether you’re a fur parent or not, you’ll surely love these Japanese dog breeds!
What Do We Need To Know About Japanese Dog Breeds?
Well, as the name implies, these breeds all originate from Japan. But like any dog-lover, you probably want to know what makes Japanese dogs breed unique and truly pet-worthy!
One common distinction Japanese dog breeds have is the presence of the words “Inu” and “Ken” in their names. These terms interchangeably mean “dog” in Japanese. Also, many of the Japanese dog breeds’ names give reference to the towns and ‘prefectures’ where the breed originated.
There are many dog breeds in Japan, but according to the Japan Dog Conservation Society’s standard, there are only six truly native Japanese dog breeds. These dogs are called “Nihon-ken” and are collectively considered as Japan’s national dog.
For the most part, Japanese dog breeds are loyal and gorgeous. They have common characteristics like long, thick fur, pointed ears, and muzzles. Many fans of the breed love their wolfish appearance, which stems from their shared, ancient ancestry.
Authentic Japanese Dog Breeds
Japanese dog breeds, arranged from smallest to biggest, include the following: Shiba Inu, Kishu Ken, Shikoku Ken, Hokkaido Ken, Kai Ken, and Akita Inu.
Let’s look into them one by one.
Shiba Inu
“Shiba” means “brushwood” in Japanese. During the autumn season, this shrub turns red or brown, similar to the Shiba’s hair color.
Shibas weigh around 7 to 10 kilograms and are about 33 to 45 centimeters in height. Although Shibas may be small in size, they have an undeniably big personality.
Shibas are spirited, independent and courageous with strong hunting instincts. With their active and outgoing personality, Shibas love to stay outdoors.
They are known to have a short attention span, but there’s nothing that patience and proper training can’t accomplish, right? Besides, Shibas are adorable and charming, so that’s a plus!
Kishu Ken
Originating from the Kishu region, this medium-sized Japanese dog breed is traditionally used to hunt boar and deer.
Even though they have been around for thousands of years, they are relatively rare in modern-day Japan. Still, those that own them experience their wonderful traits: obedience, faithfulness, and loyal companionship.
Most Kishus have a white coat, but some have redish and sesame-tinged coats. Their size ranges from 43 to 55 centimeters in height and 14 to 27 kilograms in weight.
Kishus are attentive, brave, and independent, but also quite impulsive. Their playfulness and affection towards children will make their fur parents gush over them.
Just a reminder, though: Kishus may use their intelligence to plot escape tactics during training sessions!
Shikoku Ken
In the old days, this Japanese dog breed was called Tosa Inu. They came from the Island of Shikoku and are traditionally boar-hunting dogs.
The Shikoku Ken resembles the Shiba and Akita Inu, but it has a medium-sized build of about 43 to 53 centimeters tall and between 15 to 20 kilograms.
Having a typical spitz stature, but with the head of a wolf, Shikoku Ken is also known as the Japanese Wolfdog. Its pointed triangular ears and a beautiful, thick coat give a noble, almost wild appearance. A coat that comes in the shades of black sesame, red sesame, and white adds to its handsomeness. Although this breed looks intimidating, it’s famously docile and tame.
Another good thing about this Japanese dog breed is that it’s not as stubborn as the other breeds, and is a quick learner. It is versatile, adventurous, and maintains little of its less-desirable primitive instincts. The Shikoku is famous for its endurance, agility, and speed.
There may still be some fur parents that allow their Shikoku to maintain its primitive nature by roaming around freely in the wilderness and chasing other animals, but don’t fear! This Japanese dog breed transforms into a quiet, obedient, and perfect snuggle buddy once indoors.
Hokkaido Ken
This Hokkaido Inu is also called the Ainu dog and is known for its strength, endurance, thick fur, and unfaltering stamina. All of which helps them withstand the extreme cold weather in the mountainous Hokkaido region. The only downside to this lush coat is that it requires a watchful eye on behalf of their owner in order to maintain its health and appearance.
Hokkaido Ken stands at 46 to 52 centimeters height and weighs about 20 kilograms. It‘s intelligent, alert, and devoted, making it a great companion for the family. It especially adores children and makes a great playmate.
But don’t leave it alone for too long!
This breed has a tendency for destructive behaviors when left idle, so remember to leave some toys for it to play with when you’re gone, unless you want to see your house torn to pieces!
Also, even though it is endearing and affectionate to family members, it may be aloof to strangers. But true enough, a Hokkaido dog will stick with its owners no matter what, and it will always find its way back home.
Kai Ken
The Kai Ken is one of the purest and most striking of the original Japanese dog breeds.
Its striped coat gave it the nickname “tiger dog,” or “Kai dog tiger.” Like the other Nihon-ken who were born as hunters, Kai dogs are incredible in hunting and are excellent in water, too. Plus, their coats serve as camouflage as well.
Weighing about 4 to 9 kilograms and standing at 33 to 43 centimeters tall, Kai Ken dogs are a resilient and fast breed.
This Japanese dog breed is one of the rarest kinds, even in its home country. But their loyalty and devotion to their owners are extraordinary.
This breed makes an excellent watchdog as well because of their bravery. And since these dogs are full of energy and love to have fun outdoors, so be preapred to get a workout if you take them to the park!
Akita Inu
Now, we shouldn’t forget this Japanese dog breed, which is also famous by the way, thanks to Hachiko!
Hachiko was a loyal and adorable dog whose legacy lives on as a statue in Shibuya, Japan. His life was even portrayed in the 2009 movie Hachi: A Dog’s Tale.
Does it ring any bells? Yes? In that case, you know what an Akita Inu is.
This dog breed weighs around 32 to 45 kilograms and has a height of 61 to 71 centimeters tall. Strength, loyalty, and independence are characteristics of this dog breed’s personality.
Akitas originally guarded royalty and nobility in ancient Japan, making them a little uncomfortable around strangers. Plus, they also tend to be territorial and can be perceived as being on the moody side. But don’t worry because this big ball of fluff won’t hesitate to show love and affection to its owner!
Other Japanese Dog Breeds
Besides the six native dogs, there are still some other furry friends from Japan that you have to know. These furry friends of ours have their own unique characteristics and history as well. Let’s meet them all!
Japanese Spitz
Well, who wouldn’t recognize this breed with its iconic pure white coat?
With a weight of only 5 to 10 kilograms and a height of 30 to 38 centimeters, this cute, adorable fluff makes a great addition to the family.
The downside is that if you value peace in your home, this may not be the perfect breed for you. This Japanese dog breed is a natural security alarm as it’s always alert and ready to bark like crazy in the presence of strangers.
Nevertheless, the Japanese spitz surely loves affection and attention and has a great sense of loyalty.
Japanese Terrier
The Japanese Terrier or Nihon Terrier are believed to be descendants of the Smooth Fox Terrier. These dogs are joyful, spirited, and fun to be with, making them the perfect family pet and companion.
This Japanese dog breed is small-sized, with a standing height of about 8 to 13 inches. And its hair is darker in color than the rest of the body, which is white with black or tan spots.
Japanese Mastiff / Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu, often referred to as Japanese Mastiff, is considered the largest Japanese canine and was initially bred to fight in dog arenas (thank dog that era is over). Think of them as sumo wrestlers of the dog world.
They weigh 31 to 61 kilograms and have a height of 62 to 82 centimeters. But despite their physique, this Japanese dog breed is truly an angel.
They make excellent watchdogs and are very affectionate towards family members. They are peaceful and sweet but don’t make a mistake of getting on this breed’s wrong side because they can be potentially dangerous and aggressive. After all, they are bred to fight. A dog like this requires a watchful owner with a firm command and commitment to dog training.
Ryukyu Inu
The mid-sized Japanese dog breed is a combination of the Hokkaido’s muscular build and stamina, and the tiger-striped coat of the Kai Ken. They originated from Okinawa, and its population is now dwindling.
They can effortlessly climb trees due to an extra claw at the back of their paw, called the dewclaw. Hence, it gives them an advantage in tracking and hunting.
Ryuku Inu is a breed that exudes confidence, bravery, and adaptability. With the right type of training, this dog breed can be calm, devoted, and a welcome addition to most homes.
Japanese Chin
Japanese Chin, or sometimes referred to as Japanese Spaniel, is a pocket-sized dog. This tiny, long-haired fluff is only about ten pounds in weight.
It’s one of the oldest breeds, who once lived in the Imperial Court of Japan. So for a tiny little pup, it punches above its weight in terms of status and pedigree. Perhaps, the Japanese Chin’s unique attribute is their naturally crossed eyes: a condition called strabismus.
This Japanese dog breed also has some feline-like qualities. You might be surprised to see them jumping on furniture and licking themselves spotless!
Although graceful and refined, Chins are very charming with a hint of a feisty personality!
Sanshu Inu
You may think that this bear-like fluff is a Chow Chow, an Akita, or maybe a larger version of a Shiba. This rare Japanese dog breed is a cross between Aichi, an ancient Japanese dog, a Chow Chow, and other Japanese dogs.
Their coats come in a variety of colors like tan, red and gray, and they can grow up to 22 inches.
Although there aren’t many of them nowadays, they’re excellent guard dogs and very loving to family companions.
Karafuto Ken / Sakhalin Husky
Last on our list is the mesmerizing Karafuto Ken, also known as Sakhalin Husky. This breed has a striking resemblance to the Siberian Husky.
They are incredibly hardworking and were used as sled dogs. They are intelligent and affectionate dogs who love to play with children.
Unfortunately, this Japanese dog breed is now extinct. Taro and Jiro are the only two known purebred Sakhalin Husky in Japan. Their remains are preserved in the National Science Museum of Japan in Ueno Park. But for those willing to wait – a long time – Japanese scientists are actually working to bring this breed back!
What’s Your Favorite Breed?
Now that you’ve come to the end of our list, you may have realized that these Japanese dog breeds have many similarities in appearances and qualities. However, they have quite a lot of unique sets, too!
As most of them came from a history of hunters, these dogs require attention and understanding regarding their temperament. But these dogs possess unexceptional devotion and loyalty, so it will surely make a great addition to your loving home!