Japanese Dogs

'The land of the rising sun' is one of the most culturally and traditionally rich countries. This country has given the world a rich heritage and many path breaking technologies. I am talking about none other than Japan, also the land of Samurai warriors and Sumo wrestlers. This country has also given dog lovers a long list of Japanese dog breeds, many of which that have been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Types of Japanese Dog Breeds
There are about 8 types of Japanese breeds that are all Spitz type (except Tosa inu). All these dogs have a typical Akita face with square bodies, wedge-shaped head and small upright ears. They even have stand-off coats and are curly tailed. These are so much similar in appearance that they are all grouped under the same classification. They are instead classified as large, medium and small Japanese dogs.

Large Dogs

Akita Inu
The Akita Inu is also known as Akita, Akita Dog, Japanese Akita, Akita-ken. Many countries consider the Japanese Akita a separate breed from the American Akita. However, the American and Canadian Kennel Clubs consider them as the same breed but different type. The Akita Inu is a large Japanese dog breed that stands about 60-66 cm at the withers. They come in five colors, red, fawn, sesame, brindle and pure white. They are known as the most loyal dogs and have high intelligence. They are easily bored due to their high intellectual capabilities. They can be called good apartment dogs as long as you given them ample of exercise. They are also good dogs for families with children and are very playful. You should watch over them when with small children as they may knock off the child in play.

Medium Dogs

Kai Ken
The Kai Ken is also called the Tora Inu or Tiger dog. The Kai Ken has been a national treasure in Japan and have been bred for many centuries. These are very rare dog breeds even in Japan. These medium-sized dogs stand about 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder and females are smaller, about 17 to 20 inches at the shoulder. They are curly tailed and may even hold their tail in sickle position. Their coat color is black or brindle and has a harsh texture. They are very intelligent and active dog breeds. They are agile and brave that makes them natural hunters and good guard dogs. They are loyal to their family and may be a bit reserved towards strangers. They are good dogs for families with children.

Kishu Ken
Also known as Kishy, Kishu Inu, these dogs have been bred for over thousand of years. They are similar to Akita Inu and Shiba Inu. They are very silent by nature and stand about 17 -22 inches tall. They normally have a white colored coat and may come in brindle or red Kishus in Japan. They too are curly tailed and have a fringe over the cheeks and tail. The Kishu is a one person dog and is a courageous and brave hunting dog. They are natural hunters that hunt small animals. They are headstrong and will require strict dog training. They are devoted to the family and get along well with children.

Ainu Ken
The Ainu ken is also known as Hokkaido, Seta or Shita. Many times it is also called Do-ken in Japan. This is a medium Japanese dog that has small, triangular, upright ears. They have a double coat, with one coat that is long with stiff fur and the other that is a short coat of soft fur. They come in colors like red, white, black, tiger, sesame and wolf-gray. They are faithful and brave dogs that can withstand really cold climates. They have an excellent sense of direction and can return to the owner however far the distance. They have the art of fighting the Higuma or Hokkaido Brown bear and save its owner from a bear attack. They are not recommended as apartment dogs and will be good with children if raised with them from puppyhood.

Shikoku
The alternative names for Shikoku are Kochi-ken and Mikawa Inu. This breed is similar to Shiba Inu and not recognized by the American Kennel Club. It has an intermediate size that varies between the large Akita and small Shiba. It is a brave dog with an ability for good judgment. They are tough and agile dogs and ideal for active outdoor people. They are quick learners and not as stubborn as other types. They have a square body and wedge-shaped head. They too are a feathered curly tailed Japanese dog breed.

Small Dogs

Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a small dog that was originally bred for hunting. It has a compact body with well-developed muscles. They have a double coated fur with the outer coat being stiff and straight and the undercoat soft and thick. These small dogs come in red, black, tan and sometimes sesame coats with cream, buff or gray undercoat. They are highly intelligent and independent dogs who need dog obedience training from a young age. They should always be kept on a leash outdoors as they have a high prey drive.

The other small dogs include the Japanese Spitz that have been bred by Japanese breeds by cross breeding several Spitz breeds. The other small Japanese dog is the Japanese Terrier that is native to Japan. It is also known as the Nippon terrier and is a very dog breed even in Japan.

As you may have seen dogs native to Japan are highly intelligent and extremely loyal. If you plan to get home these dogs as pets, make sure you read all about their temperament and training capabilities.