THE MOST POPULAR JAPANESE DOG BREEDS
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Many Japanese dog breeds have similar traits, so people often can't tell them apart.
Many dogs are originally from the Asian continent, and we could spend all day talking about them. But instead, we will focus on the most common Japanese dog breeds. (Note how many of their names have "Inu" as the second word - this word means "dog" in Japanese.)
The Most Common Japanese Dog Breeds
Here is a list of dog breeds in Japan. So if you want to make a friend from the land of the rising sun, you can use this article as a reference.
Akita Inu
This is the most popular dog in Japan and is originally from the Akita. He was bred by local warriors for hunting, defense, and attack. Some countries consider them potentially dangerous. He is an ancient breed, and some people believe his first specimens date back 3000 years. They also think that dogs were later mixed with the English Mastiff and Tosa Inu to make them larger and more aggressive.
The Akita is a Japanese natural treasure, especially after the devotion displayed by Hachikō. This dog has a muscular build and thick fur, and the color is white, mottled, red, or sesame. Their eyes are small, their ears point forward, and they have webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers. This is a shy, quiet, protective, cautious, and very loyal breed.
Japanese Dog Breeds – Shiba Inu
This is one of the smallest dogs in Japan and is also quite agile. They were originally bred for hunting in mountainous terrains. They are similar in appearance to the Akita but much older. The kanji symbol people in Japan use for the name of this species, Shiba, roughly means "little bush".
This dog is closely related to wolves in terms of its DNA. But they are excellent pets. They are highly affectionate, protective, intelligent, and family-oriented.
Japanese Spaniel
This dog is also called the Japanese Chin and is the kind of dog that loves to follow you wherever you go. Although their name seems to indicate that they originated in China, they are one of the most characteristic dogs of Japan. One theory states that the first Japanese Spaniel arrived in the country in 732 BC for the Japanese Empress as a gift from the Korean ruler.
Both Pekingese and Shih Tzu dogs are actually the ancestors of this dog. The Japanese Chin weighs up to 3 kg and is highly intelligent and independent. They prefer to sleep on raised surfaces such as chairs, tables, and sofas.
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Tosa Inu
This is a large and imposing dog breed from the Molosser type. They originated in the mid-nineteenth century and resulted from crossing several breeds. For example, the shorthaired German Pointer is St. Bernard, Mastiff, and Great Dane (for his fighting and protection).
Some countries consider them a dangerous breed, so anyone wishing to own them must obtain a special license to own and breed them. Their hair is short and light brown, red, or mottled. These dogs can weigh up to 100 kg.
Japanese Terrier
Also known as the Nippon Terrier, this dog breed is tough to find even in his home country. Some people believe that the Terriers appeared after they arrived via Dutch traders who had landed in Nagasaki. They quickly became pet favorites and became immensely popular there and in other ports, such as Yokohama.
These dogs are tall and have white fur, almond eyes and black heads. In addition, they are cheerful and protective, and some people think they can react to their owners' facial expressions.
Japanese Spitz Dog
This is one of the most "graceful" dogs in Japan. In appearance, he is similar to the Pomeranian, Samoyed, and American Eskimo dogs. However, the Spitz has a round and broad head, erect triangular ears, and long, all-white fur (excluding the face and legs).
Their tails are curled in a fur-like fashion. Usually, this is a very active animal, carefully watching the owner, which makes him a good pet. He also adapts well to the family environment. You should comb them often if you want them to look like cotton balls.
Hokkaido Inu
This Japanese dog breed has several names: Seta, Ainu-Ken, and Ainu. However, people often abbreviate their words to Do-ken. They originated in Hokkaido, hence their name.
These dogs are usually medium in size and have small triangular ears. Their fur is long and hard and has two different coats of color. This breed is extremely loyal, brave and can withstand extreme cold. In addition, they have a great sense of direction, can safely face a bear, and get along well with children.
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