Meet and greet these 9 unique Japanese dog breeds:

Meet and greet these 9 unique Japanese dog breeds:

Discover Lesser-Known Japanese Dog Breeds

Japan, renowned for its rich history and unique culture, is also home to a diverse range of dog breeds. While the Shiba Inu and Akita are popular worldwide, there are several lesser-known Japanese breeds that are equally interesting and charming.

Many of these breeds date back hundreds of years, while others were recognized by major kennel clubs in the early 20th century. The Japanese Dog Preservation Society, also known as the Nihon Ken Honzokai, recognizes six indigenous breeds as national monuments. These six breeds, collectively known as Nihon Ken, are not the only Japanese breeds, as the country boasts a variety of sizes, colors, and temperaments.

Let's delve into some of these lesser-known Japanese dog breeds:

1. Shiba Inu

One of the most famous Japanese breeds, the Shiba Inu, predates the emergence of modern breeds in the 19th century. Considered a basal breed, they have greatly influenced the development of modern dog breeds through their genetics. Known for their endearing appearance and wild popularity, Shiba Inus were originally bred as hunting dogs to catch small game like rabbits and birds. They weigh between 18-22 pounds and stand at around 13-17 inches tall. Shiba Inus are known for their good-natured, bold temperament, infamous loud "scream" or bark, and fastidious cleanliness.

1. Akita

The largest of the Nihon Ken breeds, the Akita can grow over 100 pounds and stand more than 2 feet tall. These dogs, originally from the mountains of northern Japan, were bred as hunting dogs that could endure snowy conditions. Akitas make excellent guard dogs and are so beloved that newborn children are often given Akita figurines for protection. The famous Hachiko story, a loyal Akita who waited for his owner at the Shibuya train station, immortalizes the breed's devotion. Akitas are typically best in single-dog households due to their territorial nature and reserved behavior around strangers. They are not ideal for first-time dog owners.

1. Kai Ken

Another Nihon Ken breed, the Kai Ken, is a medium-sized dog that stands between 17-22 inches tall and weighs about 25-55 pounds. They have a medium-length double coat in black, red, or brown brindle. Kai Kens are highly intelligent, alert, and make excellent watchdogs. Originally bred to hunt Japanese serow, wild boar, and bears in steep, mountainous areas, Kai Kens are well-suited for active families. They can be reserved towards strangers but are generally good with children.

1. Kishu Ken

The Kishu, or Kishu-ken, is another Nihon Ken breed that is quiet like the Shiba Inu. They were bred for boar and deer hunting and prefer to stalk their prey rather than bark at it. Kishus can stand between 17-22 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 30-60 pounds. They are white, red, or black-and-tan. Kishus have a strong prey drive, so they are not well-suited for households with cats and require socialization as puppies to ensure good behavior with other dogs. They can be aloof towards strangers but are easily housebroken and intelligent.

1. Hokkaido

Ancient Japanese in origin, the Hokkaido is a medium-sized dog that stands 20 inches tall and weighs around 44 pounds. They have double coats that come in various colors, from black to brindle, to wolf-grey. Hokkaidos are loyal, brave, and known for their howls. They are commonly used to hunt boar and bear in Japan. Hokkaidos are highly food-motivated, work well with recall techniques, and require long walks to expend their energy.

1. Shikoku Ken

The sixth and final Nihon ken breed on this list is the Shikoku ken or Shikoku inu. Often mistaken for a Japanese wolf, the Shikoku is a larger dog, standing between 18-26 inches and weighing around 50 pounds. Their coats can be red sesame, sesame, or black sesame, with white often found on their underside and tails. Shikokus are very alert, can be wary of strangers, and make excellent outdoor companions for adventure-loving families. They are relatively stubborn, so patience and consistency are essential when training.

1. Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is a more recently recognized breed, descending from German Spitzes that were brought over to Japan in the early 1900s. Sometimes called a "ground cloud" for its short stature and fluffy white coat, Japanese Spitz weigh around 10-15 pounds and stand 12-15 inches tall. They require regular grooming due to heavy shedding and are known for their friendliness, intelligence, and loyalty. They are active dogs that make great companions for families with older adults or children.

These lesser-known Japanese dog breeds offer a unique blend of historic roots and charming personalities. Incorporating one of these breeds into your family could lead to a lifetime of love and companionship.

1. In addition to the Shiba Inu and Akita, the Japanese Dog Preservation Society recognizes the Kai Ken as another indigenous breed, known for their intelligence, alertness, and suitability for active families.
2. The Japanese Spitz, while not indigenous, is a compact and fluffy dog that requires regular grooming, offering a friendly, intelligent, and loyal companion for families with older adults or children.
3. Home-and-garden enthusiasts and pet lovers might be intrigued to discover the Kishu Ken, a quiet and alert breed that prefers stalking prey over barking, making them well-suited for adventure-loving families.
4. For those seeking a dog breed that is loyal, brave, and known for its howls, the Hokkaido, with its double coat and varying colors, could be an exciting addition to a home-and-garden lifestyle.

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