The Japanese dog breeds are typically referred to as the six Nihon-Ken dog breeds. Shiba Inu, Shikoku Ken, Kai Ken, Hokkaido Ken, and Akita Inu are Nihon-Ken dog breeds. Japanese Chin, Japanese Spitz, Tosa, Japanese Terrier, and Ryukyu are other dog breeds found in Japan.

These celebrity puppies are not only gorgeous, but they also have interesting backstories and origins that have molded them into distinctive, potent, and clever working dogs and friends. Also, read Top 10 Big White Fluffy Dog Breeds

1) Shiba Inu Dog

Japanese dog breeds – Shiba Inu

This lovely Japanese dog breed resembles a fox with pointed ears, a black nose, and a red coat. Shiba Inu Dog is considered to be one of the most beloved and attractive dog breeds globally. However, they are relatively new to the United States, having arrived in the year 1954.

The present breed is a cross between the dogs of the Jominian people and a new immigrant who arrived in 300 B.C. They were initially employed as hunting dogs; however, they were once used to kill giant animals. But now, they are only used to track lesser wildlife. With its prick ears, orange and white coat, and almond eyes, this 20-pound Japanese dog breed resembles a fox, yet the Shiba Inu’s athletic frame and agility have made it a covert hunter.

The Shiba Inu is a clever dog, but you have a naughty one on your hands when you combine that with its lively personality. Although this breed is noted for its stubbornness, early training and socialization might help to reduce this tendency.

You may expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $3,500 for a Shiba Inu puppy from a reputable breeder if you want to buy one of these tiny furballs.

2) Shikoku Ken Dog

Japanese dog breeds – Shikoku Ken

Mikawa Inu & Japanese Wolfdog are northern breeds that are also known as Kochi-ken. With a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, the dog’s disposition is agile, courageous, cautious, active, clever, and loyal.

The breed may reach a height of 7-21 inches and weigh between 35 and 50 pounds. Black, black with tan, and cream are the most common colors. The breed isn’t strictly an indoor dog; it prefers outside activities, but it gets unhappy if its owners are not around. The species thrives with regular exercise and should be walked or jogged daily.

The breed has a double coat that can be sesame (red or black), cream, and generally light brown, a light red-brown, or a light black-brown color. The breed has a thick coat with pointed ears and a curled tail that sheds at least yearly. The species is highly devoted and subservient to its owner, yet it does not get along well with outsiders. In Japanese, the Shikoku is known as the Kochi-ken “ken” or “inu,” which means “dog.”

3) Kai Ken Dog

Japanese dog breeds – Kai Ken

The medium-sized dog breed may weigh up to 50 pounds and live for 15 years on average. Like other Japanese dog breeds, the species is a clever and fast learner. It is well-known among Japanese people as a dependable guardian who is fiercely devoted to its master. In Japan, the Kai is regarded as a “natural treasure.” It’s an intelligent dog that’s easy to teach and it gets along with other dogs easily.

The medium-sized breed has a wedge-shaped head with a tapering muzzle when it comes to looks. The shoulders are muscular, and the thigh is regarded as a powerful muscle.

The breed has a double coat and a thick tail. It tends to be an ideal family pet that is highly loving and playful and takes exceptional care of its youngsters. It may also be an effective watchdog due to its strong protective instincts.

4) Hokkaido Ken Dog

Japanese dog breeds – Hokkaido Ken

The Ainu Dog (Ainu Inu) is a Japanese breed that is originated in the Hokkaido Prefecture. The species is said to be the oldest and most basic of all Japanese dog breeds. It has a broad and flat forehead, a wedge-shaped muzzle, and small triangular eyes when it comes to its appearance.

The breed is known for its abilities as a hunter, guardian, and protector. The faithful dog breed is both well-behaved and frequently utilized as scenting hounds, although training is required. Because the species may become violent and obstinate, the master must take care of its proper training. 

5) Japanese Spitz Dog

Japanese Spitz

The tiny Japanese dog breed is friendly and companionable, growing up to 12-15 inches tall and weighing between 11 and 20 pounds. It can withstand the cold, but because it was bred as a companion dog, it loves to live indoors and is best suited to flats.

Because of its lively, energetic, and loving nature, the breed is ideal for children. It is also quite welcoming to outsiders. The breed has an exterior and inner coat, but the fur on the nose and ears and the front of the forelegs and rear legs are shorter. 

The triangular form prides the dog’s ears, generally in a stand-up position with a tail densely coated in long hair and draped over the back. The breed is descended from the bigger German Spitz dogs and arrived in Japan via Siberia and northern China around 1920.

6) Tosa Dog

tosa dog

Tosa Inu, Tosa Ken, Tosa Ken, Japanese Fighting Dog, Japanese Mastiff, Tosa Fighting Dog, and Japanese Tosa are some of the names given to the breed.

The variety has an enormous and broad head with a kink on the lead for the most part when the dog is ready. Ears are of medium size and generally set high, giving them the presence of a monstrous but unique and adaptable competitor. This variety began in the second 50% of the nineteenth century. It started from the local Shikoku-Inu with a similarity to the European Spitz.

Conclusion:

As you can see, Japan has a plethora of great dog breeds! Many of these dogs are originated as hunting breeds. They often have high care requirements, and should only be put with someone familiar with them. On the other hand, these dogs may become fantastic family pets, excellent defenders, and even great playmates for kids!

Do you believe you’ll bring a Japanese dog into your house, despite their high maintenance requirements? If yes, then we hope this article was helpful to choose the right one! Also, read Top 5 Black Dog Breeds