Dog farming in Japan has ancient roots and has, in fact, been practiced for thousands of years. In that time, six different breeds of Japanese dogs have been carefully bred and refined to achieve purity, beauty, and other desirable traits. These six original Japanese dog breeds include the Japanese Akita, Shiba, Shikoku, Kai Ken, Kishu, and Hokkaido. The Tosa is another well-known Japanese dog breed, although it is not considered one of the original six.

Akita
Of all the breeds, it is the one that Japanese Akita dog breeders are best known for. Technically, it is called the Akita Inu and is sometimes considered to be separate from the American Akita. The Akita is a large dog with very thick fur and a variety of colors. He is known for being exceptionally loyal, friendly, and playful. Akitas make good family pets and do well with children, although they do need a lot of time outdoors.

Shiba
Where the Japanese Akita is the largest of all Japanese dogs, the Shiba (or Shiba Inu) is the smallest. Both its coat and its body share the same features: short and thick. Bred to hunt, Shibas must be kept tethered or they may attempt to chase after something and escape. Their temperaments are confident, intelligent, and a bit independent. They should be socialized young so they don’t get too disobedient. They are also very loyal to their owners.

Shikoku
The Shikoku is, in terms of size, halfway between the Japanese Akita and the Shiba (the largest and smallest Japanese dog breeds, respectively). Its coat is also of medium length. Quite active, agile, tough, and energetic, Shikokus are known as good dogs for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. They are more obedient than some of the other breeds and have a reputation for learning things quickly.

Kai ken
The Kai Ken (sometimes simply called Kai) is a very rare breed, even in Japan, and is believed by some to be the purest and oldest of all the oldest Japanese dog breeds. In fact, the breed is considered a national monument of Japan. It is a medium-sized dog with rough, medium-length coat and a deep reddish or dark black coat. The Kai Ken is known for being friendly, fearless, intelligent, and alert. They are very loyal to their owners, and they also have a hunting history, which makes them good watchdogs.

Kishu
Similar to the Shibu and Akita, but older than them, the Kishu is one of the most beautiful and intelligent breeds of traditional Japanese dogs. Kishus have thick, short, white fur and are of medium build and muscular stature. Brave, strong and agile, the Kishu is known as a good hunting dog. They are very loyal to families and are instinctively drawn to a person or family once they know who their owners are.

Hokkaido
With its two coats (one short and the other long) of thick hair, the Hokkaido is a unique and prized breed among Japanese dogs. The double layer also makes it very compatible with cold climates. A natural hunter, the Hokkaido has the ability to fight bears and will be very protective of their owners. Children do well as long as you are exposed to them while you are a puppy.