The six breeds recognized as Nihon-ken are more than just native dogs; they are officially designated Natural Monuments of Japan, a status granted in the 1930s that helped protect them at a time when many traditional breeds were at risk of disappearing.

This recognition gave breeders and conservation groups the framework to preserve bloodlines through the turmoil of modernization and World War II, ensuring their survival into the present.

Though they vary in size and character, the six breeds share hallmark spitz traits—dense double coats, upright triangular ears, and tails that curl confidently over their backs. These features reflect their origins as hardy hunting companions in Japan’s rugged landscapes.

Their temperaments also carry echoes of that heritage: deeply loyal to their families, often reserved with strangers, and guided by strong natural instincts.

Have you heard of Hachiko - the adorable pup whose legacy lives on as a Japanese dog statue in Shibuya? Then you know about the Akita Inu.

The Akita Inu is the largest of the native breeds, known for its broad chest, sturdy frame, and bear-like face. Historically, it was used by hunters to track large prey such as bears and boars, and later served as a guardian for samurai households.

The Japanese Akita can be sesame, brindle, red, fawn, or pure white, but must have distinctive urajiro markings—white or cream shading on the chest, cheeks, and tail areas. This pattern is a hallmark of the breed.

Akitas are dignified and loyal, affectionate with their families but often aloof with strangers. They are dominant dogs, better suited for experienced owners who can provide firm, consistent leadership.

Quick Akita Inu Facts
・Weight: 32 – 45 kilograms (about 70 – 100 pounds)
・Size: 61 – 71 centimeters tall (24 – 28 inches)
・Personality: Dominant, loyal, affectionate with family, aloof with strangers

Adapted to Hokkaido’s severe winters, the Hokkaido Inu has a dense double coat, small upright ears, and large snowshoe-like paws that help it endure frigid conditions. Its strong build reflects its history as a fearless hunting partner against wild boar and even bears.

Their coats may be red, black, brindle, sesame, wolf gray, or pure white, always with a plush undercoat that thickens in cold weather.

The Hokkaido is loyal, intelligent, and brave, often forming an intense bond with its family. However, their strong prey drive and protective nature mean they require careful socialization and supervision around other animals.

Quick Hokkaido Inu Facts
・Weight: ~20 kilograms (~44 pounds)
・Size: 46 – 52 centimeters high (18 – 20 inches)
・Personality: Intelligent, devoted, courageous; strong-willed and protective

The Kai Ken, also called the “Tora Inu” (Tiger Dog), is instantly recognizable for its brindle-striped coat, which can be black, red, or brown. Some puppies are born solid-colored, and the brindle pattern emerges gradually, sometimes taking years to fully develop.

Lean and muscular, with sharp agility, the Kai was bred to navigate steep mountains and rivers while hunting deer and boar. They are even known to climb trees in pursuit of prey.

Highly intelligent and loyal, they are quick learners but retain an independent streak. Their hunting instincts remain strong, so a secure environment is essential.

Quick Kai Ken Facts
・Weight: 14 – 18 kilograms (30 – 40 pounds)
・Size: 39 – 50 centimeters high (15 – 20 inches)
・Personality: Independent, courageous, intelligent; reserved with strangers

The Kishu Ken is medium-sized with a noble, wolf-like face and a powerful, athletic frame. Traditionally, white coats became preferred by hunters for visibility in dense forests, though they can also appear in red and sesame.

They are known for their quiet hunting style, often working silently until the moment of confrontation. This makes them both excellent trackers and watchful companions.

Brave and affectionate with family, they are intelligent and active but also impulsive. Their strong prey drive means they may not do well with smaller pets, and they require secure fencing to contain their curiosity and agility.

Quick Kishu Ken Facts
・Weight: 14 – 27 kilograms (31 – 59 pounds)
・Size: 43 – 55 centimeters high (17 – 22 inches)
・Personality: Brave, intelligent, affectionate; strong hunting instincts

The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six breeds, compact yet strong, with a wedge-shaped snout, pricked triangular ears, and a curled tail. Their coats can be red, sesame, black-and-tan, or cream, but like the Akita, they must display the urajiro markings on the chest, muzzle, and underside of the tail.

Their spirited personality is legendary—independent, bold, and sometimes stubborn. They are also famous for their unique vocalizations, including the dramatic “Shiba scream.”

The Shiba’s popularity has led to the rise of the Mame Shiba trend, where dogs are bred smaller than the standard size. While cute, this controversial practice can harm the breed’s health and integrity.

Quick Shiba Inu Facts
・Weight: 7 – 10 kilograms (16 – 22 pounds)
・Size: 33 – 45 centimeters high (13 – 17 inches)
・Personality: Independent, bold, proud; loyal to family but stubborn

Native to Kochi Prefecture, the Shikoku Ken is admired for its wolf-like appearance and athletic build. Their coats are typically sesame, red, or black-and-tan, with a harsh outer coat and thick undercoat suited to rugged mountain life.

Shikoku dogs are known for their endurance and hunting prowess, originally used to track wild boar. They are intelligent and loyal, though more reserved with strangers, and they often express themselves through distinctive low growls rather than barks.

Less stubborn than Shibas and Akitas, they can be easier to train, though they still demand experienced, committed owners.

Quick Shikoku Ken Facts
・Weight: 15 – 20 kilograms (33 – 45 pounds)
・Size: 43 – 53 centimeters tall (17 – 21 inches)
・Personality: Intelligent, stoic, loyal; resilient with strong will

The Japanese Spitz is a small, fluffy companion dog developed in the 20th century, often mistaken for one of the Nihon-ken. With its pure white coat, wedge-shaped snout, and lively personality, it quickly became popular in urban households.

They are affectionate, obedient, and playful, making them excellent family dogs. However, they can be prone to barking if not properly trained.

Quick Japanese Spitz Facts
・Weight: 5 – 10 kilograms (11 – 20 pounds)
・Size: 30 – 38 centimeters high (12 – 15 inches)
・Personality: Energetic, affectionate, intelligent; good with children and other pets

Created in the 17th century in Nagasaki by crossing imported smooth-haired Fox Terriers with native Japanese dogs, the Japanese Terrier is a compact, agile breed best known for its cheerful personality and glossy, short coat. Its head is usually black or tricolor, while the body is predominantly white.

These dogs are sensitive, playful, and loving, making them well-suited for quieter households. Today, they remain quite rare, even in Japan.

Quick Japanese Terrier Facts
・Weight: 2 – 4 kilograms (5 – 9 pounds)
・Size: 20 – 33 centimeters tall (8 – 13 inches)
・Personality: Sensitive, lively, affectionate; playful companion

The Tosa Inu, also called the Tosa Ken or Japanese Mastiff, is Japan’s largest breed. It was developed in the 19th century by crossing native Shikoku dogs with Mastiffs, Great Danes, Bulldogs, and other European breeds to create a formidable fighting dog.

Despite its powerful heritage, the Tosa is typically calm and quiet with its family. However, it can be wary of strangers and aggressive toward unfamiliar dogs. Because of its history, Tosa ownership is restricted in many countries.

Quick Tosa Inu Facts
・Weight: 31 – 61 kilograms (80 – 135 pounds)
・Height: 62 – 82 centimeters (24 – 32 inches)
・Personality: Calm, loyal, protective; wary with strangers, strong guardian instincts

In Japan’s cities, where pet ownership can be difficult, dog cafés let visitors enjoy time with friendly pups—sometimes even native breeds like the Shiba Inu—while relaxing over coffee or tea. They’re a favorite stop for travelers seeking a dose of cuteness without commitment.

Beyond cafés, Japan also offers dog-friendly activities, from off-leash play areas and pet-friendly hiking trails to facilities where guests can meet rare native breeds such as the Akita or Shikoku.

No matter what the Japanese dog breed you're thinking of getting, it's definitely harder to get one outside of Japan. For this reason, a fair number of people come to Japan with the hope of picking up a pet.

Exporting a Japanese dog from Japan comes with its own challenges. Not all breeders will want to export certain Japanese dog breeds, as they are considered 'national treasures' of a sort.

The next hurdle is cost. Prices of dogs in Japan vary, but in general, younger pups (2 months old) are cheaper than older pups.

Once you've picked out your Japanese pup, there will be additional costs with preparing to export. This will include vaccinations/microchip, dog crate, kenneling fees, export pedigree, Animal Quarantine Inspection, and other costs.

Actual shipping costs for shipping a dog from Japan will vary by country. Before buying a dog in Japan, be sure to check whether your airline ships pets! Also check the associated pet fees - it may very well be over $200.

You will have to know the import laws for your country. Many countries, in the EU for example, will require rabies vaccination and a 21-day quarantine period in Japan.

Generally, you may find it much less hassle to search for a Japanese dog breed exporter who can connect you with a breeder and take care of all the paperwork on your behalf.

Now that you have selected your Japanese dog, naming him or can be exciting and difficult. In Japan, you can find dogs named anything from Ryuu to Lucky to Sausage. Take a look at some of these popular Japanese dog names.

Japanese dog breeds are beautiful! These pets make for great companions. You can find Japanese breeds that are small, large, fluffy, or smooth. Next time you’re considering a new fur-baby or are in Japan on vacation, check out these Japanese breeds!