Of all of the countries with histories of dog breeding, Japan is one of the most well-known. The six ancient Japanese dog breeds are the Japanese Akita, Shikoku, Kai Ken, Shiba, Hokkaido, and Kishu. These share many traits, but each possesses an element or combination of element that makes it distinct from other Japanese dogs. These Japanese dogs all possess great intelligence, poise, and often strength. Many are used (or were used historically, at least) for hunting, and the dogs generally bond quite quickly to family and possess a strong sense of loyalty to their owners.
Japanese Akita
Of all these dogs, it’s the Akita Japanese breeders are most well known for. The Japanese Akita is different from the American Akita, as it is older and truer to the ancient breed. Akitas have gorgeous, thick fur that comes in five or six recognized different colors. Playful, energetic, and kind, the Akita is a good dog for families. It is the largest of the six Japanese dogs.
Shikoku
The Shikoku is midsized as Japanese dogs go. It has medium-length fur that is thick and rich in color. An exceptionally obedient and energetic breed, the Shikoku is particularly popular with people who prefer outdoor activities and excursions. The Shikoku’s athleticisms, energy, and toughness make it great for hiking, road trips, and other such activities.
Kai Ken
One of the rarest Japanese dog breeds, the Kai Ken is also known as the Kai for short. Like the Shikoku, the Kai Ken is a medium-build dog with medium length, thick fur. The Kai Ken is almost always very dark: a deep red if not fully black. Used traditionally for hunting, the Kai Ken is alert, intelligent, and brave, which makes it a good guard dog for families homes. They are also quite loyal, specifically to their owners, but are still friendly enough to meet other people and other dogs with no trouble.
Kishu
The Kishu is another of the Japanese dogs that falls in the category of being medium sized. The Kishu is one of the oldest of the already ancient Japanese dog breeds. It looks similar to the Japanese Akita except it has much shorter fur (though no less thick). It is very good for cooler weather, likes being outdoors, and is good at hunting. One of the bravest and strongest of the Japanese dogs, the Kishu is very loyal and attaches quickly to one owner or family.
Hokkaido
A very special breed of Japanese dog, the Hokkaido has two different coats of fur, one long and one short, which makes it especially acclimated to cold or cool climates. The Hokkaido is a natural hunter and has even been known to fight bears in order to protect its owners.
Shiba Inu
The Shiba is on the opposite end of the spectrum of Japanese dogs from the Japanese Akita. While the Akita is the largest of these dogs, the Shiba is the smallest Japanese dog breed. Small in stature, the Shiba is nonetheless very strong and energetic. Its natural inclination is to hunt, so it must be kept on a leash or it is likely to run off—very quickly—in pursuit of a rabbit or other animal. When trained as a puppy, the Shiba can be obedient, and it bonds well with owners and family.
