We’ll probably never have a clear answer on which dog breed makes for the best companion, but dog owners in Japan could make a pretty good argument for their favorite Japanese dog breeds. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new furry friend, you want to know more about your favorite four-legged friend, or you just want to take your knowledge of your favorite animal to the next level, here’s a rundown of everything you need to know about the top 10 most beloved Japanese dog breeds.
10 Japanese Dog Breeds Everyone Loves
Japan’s love of dogs has been evident in the country’s history for centuries, and has been illustrated through literature, art, and ancient funerary rituals for thousands of years. Literary works like The Pillow Book and The Tale of Genji describe dogs roaming freely all over the early capital of Heian-kyō, meanwhile hunting dogs became vital for the ancient sport of falconry during the Kamakura period (1185–1333 CE). Researchers even discovered a haniwa (terracotta figurine made for ritual burial use) from a Kofun period (300–538 CE) site that depicts a dog wearing a collar, which means dogs have had a heavy influence on the culture for much longer than you’d expect. One of the most famous and revered dog stories in Japan is the story of Hachikō, a Japanese Akita dog who was known for greeting his owner, Hidesaburō Ueno, at the Shibuya Station in Tokyo everyday on his commute home from work. While he was at work, Ueno unexpectedly passed from a cerebral hemorrhage, and Hachikō continued to wait for his owner at the same spot and time everyday for nine years following Ueno’s death.
Today, the relationship between dogs and the Japanese people is just as apparent and stories with anthropomorphized dogs still have a high level of popularity, though you’re probably more likely to encounter the story through an advertisem*nt than in literature.
Dog Breeds
Now that you have an understanding of the role dogs play in Japanese culture, it’s time to learn about the most popular dog breeds in the country.
1. Shiba Inu
Probably the most popular and recognizable of the Japanese dog breeds, Shiba Inus are known for their bushy coats, fluffy tails, and meme-worthy personalities. Shibas tend to be energetic and require a fair amount of exercise throughout the day, and despite their cuddly appearance, Shibas are not an overly affectionate breed.
Group
Non-sporting group
Height
13.5-16.5 inches
Weight
18-24 pounds
Coat Color
Red and black (sesame); black and tan
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Temperament
High energy
Shedding
High
2. Japanese Spitz
Japanese Spitz are a small dog breed that are known for having fluffy coats, tiny little bodies, and a whole lot of personality. The spirited Spitz has a loveable heart and a calm yet playful energy, which makes it a great breed for families with children or an affectionate dog owner who loves to pamper their pups. Plus, Japanese Spitz are typically a quieter dog breed that don’t bark all that often, too.
Group
Companion
Height
10-16 inches
Weight
17-32 pounds
Coat Color
White
Life Expectancy
12-16 years
Temperament
Playful, loyal, affectionate
Shedding
Moderate
3. Japanese Chin
With a chin like that, how could you not love the Japanese Chin? This silky-coated breed may have a small chin (and body), but its heart is anything but. The Japanese Chin is affectionate and loving towards people he trusts, yet is still open to getting to know strangers in new situations. Japanese Chins are known to be an intelligent breed, which makes them easy to train, and would often rather spend the afternoon lounging on the couch than running around at the dog park.
Group
Toy
Height
8-11 inches
Weight
7-11 pounds
Coat Color
Black and white; black, white, and tan; sable and white; red and white; lemon and white
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Temperament
Loving, intelligent, sensitive, independent
Shedding
Moderate
4. Akita
At first glance you might mistake an Akita for a Shiba Inu (the two breeds are related, after all), but Akitas have some key differences in personality and looks that sets them apart from their Shiba relatives. For example, Akitas are one of the largest Japanese dog breeds, while Shibas are a smaller breed. The protective nature of the Akita makes for a great watchdog, but they can be aggressive towards other dogs and don’t get along well with kids.
Group Working Height
25-28 inches
Weight
70-100 pounds
Coat Color
Brindle; white; sesame; red fawn
Life Expectancy
10-14 years
Temperament
Quiet, protective
Shedding
Seasonal
5. Tosa
Often described as gentle giants, Tosas are a big breed with an even bigger heart. Tosas don’t reach adulthood until they reach four years old, so you can expect these oversized pups to have a youthful spirit. They’re also very patient and obedient, which makes them a great companion for families and kids. That being said, some countries consider Tosas to be dangerous and have even banned ownership of the breed due to their aggressive past as fighting dogs.
Group
Fighting
Height
24-26 inches
Weight
80-170 pounds
Coat Color
Black; red; brindle; fawn
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Temperament
Gentle, patient, obedient
Shedding
Low
6. Shikoku
Shikoku (otherwise known as Kochi Ken or Mikawa Inu) were originally bred to hunt big game, but don’t worry, because the wolf-like Japanese dog breed never turns down a belly rub and kisses from its owner. Shikoku love to be outside and are quite territorial, and require a lot of exercise that satisfies their high energy levels, too.
Group
Working
Height
17-22 inches
Weight
35-55 pounds
Coat Color
Black; white; black and tan; red; sesame
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Temperament
Independent, brave, alert
Shedding
Moderately high
7. Japanese Terrier
Introduced to Japan by travelers from the Netherlands in the 17th century, Japanese Terriers are considered to be one of the country’s more modern breeds. Japanese Terriers are highly intelligent, loveable around family, and are bursting with energy. But don’t let their little bodies fool you, because these short-haired pooches are always on high alert and will bark loudly at any strangers or unwanted noises.
Group
Terrier
Height
8-13 inches
Weight
5-10 pounds
Coat Color
Tricolor
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Temperament
Lively, active
Shedding
Moderate
8. Hokkaido
Another breed that has a similar look to the Shiba Inu, Hokkaidos are an athletic breed with a thick, fluffy coat and lots of love to give. The Hokkaido's protective nature will have them guarding your home, and their friendly, loyal sensibilities make for an ideal canine companion for families with children.
Group
Asian and Oceanian
Height
18-22 inches
Weight
45-65 pounds
Coat Color
White; black; tan; gray; red
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Temperament
Friendly, athletic, playful, affectionate
Shedding
Seasonal
9. Kishu
Though a rather affectionate breed, you probably shouldn’t adopt a Kishu unless you’re okay with letting him roam freely in your yard. Kishus, or Kishu Kens, are large game hounds, so they tend to thrive in open spaces and enjoy protecting their land. Still, it’s their good-natured dispositions and obedient personalities that make them a great pet, especially for people who live an active lifestyle.
Group
Asian and Oceanian
Height
18-22 inches
Weight
30-60 pounds
Coat Color
White; red; sesame
Life Expectancy
11-13 years
Temperament
Athletic, alert, affectionate
Shedding
Moderately high
10.Kai Ken
As a devoted guardian and loyal companion to their masters, Kai Kens make a great addition to the family. In fact, Kai Kens are known to form strong bonds with their owners, so you can expect your pup to be extremely attentive, and maybe a little needy, too. This Japanese dog breed has a tender, affectionate side to them and are very respectful of the family unit, so your kids are sure to get along sweetly with the double-coated pooch.
Group
Asian and Oceanian
Height
17-22 inches
Weight
25-55 pounds
Coat Color
Brindle; black brindle; red brindle
Life Expectancy
13-16 years
Temperament
Loyal, affectionate
Shedding
Moderate
Popular Japanese Dog Names and Meanings
If you’re going to adopt a Japanese pup, you might want to give him or her a Japanese name, too. Some of the most popular Japanese dog names include Yuki (which means “good fortune”), Tadeo (“loyal”), Sakura (“cherry blossoms”), Adzuki (“red beans”), and Pochi, which is the Japanese equivalent of the name “Spot.”
There’s no denying that dogs are beloved all around the world. From breeds known across the world like Shiba Inus, to lesser known canines like Kishus and Kai Kens, there are so many reasons to love dogs, especially Japanese dogs.
