As a dog-lover, you must be familiar with the word ‘inu,’ but you may not yet know that it is Japanese for ‘dog.’ So, all the dogs with ‘inu’ in their name, like Akita Inu and Shiba Inu, are from this Land of the Rising Sun. Several more amazing dog breeds come from this country. But only 6 are considered ‘Nihon-ken,’ which means to be indeed Japanese.
Studies show that Japanese dogs are more likely to display aggressive behavior toward their family than dogs from the United States. Despite that, all these dogs make excellent, loyal pets. After all, who doesn’t know the story of Hachikō, the Akita that waited for his dead master for nine years?
List of Dog Breeds from Japan
‘Nihon-ken’ (True Japanese Descent)
Other Breeds Originating in Japan
Some people erroneously (though understandably) consider the Japanese Chin to have come from Japan. But this breed is actually believed to have originated in China.
Brief History of Dogs in Japan
The first dogs are now believed to have arrived in the country from Northern or Southern Asia during the Jōmon Period (14,000-300 BC). Then, during the Yayoi (300 BCE-300 AD) and Kofun (300-538 AD) periods, some more dogs were brought to Japan from Joseon (or the Korean peninsula). It was when crossbreeding started here, eventually giving birth to many Japanese breeds we see today.
According to researchers, the first batch of dogs that came to the country during the Jōmon Period are the ancestors of the 6 main ‘Japanese’ breeds. These are called the ‘Nihon-ken‘ and are protected and preserved by the Nihon Ken Hozonkai (Nippo) or Association for the Preservation of the Japanese Dog.
FAQ’s
The six native Japanese dog breeds, known as ‘Nihon-ken,’ are the Akita, Hokkaido, Kai Ken, Kishu, Shiba Inu, and Shikoku. These specific breeds are considered true Japanese dogs descended from ancient lineages and are protected by the Nihon Ken Hozonkai for their historical and cultural significance.
‘Nihon-ken’ literally translates to ‘Japanese dog’ and refers to the six specific breeds native to Japan. These dogs—Akita, Shiba Inu, Hokkaido, Kai Ken, Kishu, and Shikoku—are descendants of the earliest canines in the country and are protected by the Nihon Ken Hozonkai preservation society.
No, the Japanese Chin is not believed to have originated in Japan despite its name. Historical evidence suggests this toy breed actually originated in China. It was likely introduced to Japan as a gift to royalty, which is why it became so closely associated with the country over time.
The original Japanese dog breeds developed from canines that arrived in Japan during the Jōmon Period (14,000-300 BC). Further crossbreeding occurred with dogs brought from the Korean peninsula during later periods. The six ‘Nihon-ken’ breeds are direct descendants of these earliest dogs, preserved over centuries.
Some studies indicate that Japanese dog breeds may be more likely to display aggressive behavior toward their family compared to dogs from the United States. However, individual temperament varies greatly. With proper training and socialization, these breeds are known to be exceptionally loyal and make excellent companion animals.
The Akita Inu is considered a true Japanese dog because it is one of the six ‘Nihon-ken’ breeds. This designation means it is a native breed descended from the earliest dogs in Japan. The Nihon Ken Hozonkai (Nippo) officially recognizes and works to preserve its ancient lineage.
The Nihon Ken Hozonkai (Nippo), also known as the Association for the Preservation of the Japanese Dog, is the primary organization that preserves native breeds. It was established to protect and maintain the standards for the six ‘Nihon-ken’ breeds, ensuring their ancient bloodlines continue without significant alteration.
