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Dog Encyclopedia — 223 Species Directory

Encyclopedia of popular dog breeds with traits, temperament, and care guides.

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Showing 223 of 223 species(124)

Affenpinscher

Affenpinscher

Beginner

A small German companion with a charming monkey-like face. Fearless, alert and devoted.

BeginnerSmallCompanion
Afghan Hound

Afghan Hound

Advanced

One of the most elegant breeds. Extremely independent sighthound.

AdvancedLargeElegant
Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier

Intermediate

The King of Terriers, largest of all terriers. Outgoing, confident and fearless.

IntermediateLargeTerrier
Akita Inu

Akita Inu

Advanced

Japan's iconic breed, famous for Hachiko. Dignified and loyal. National treasure.

AdvancedLargeJapanese breed
Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute

Advanced

Large Arctic sled dog. Bigger and stronger than Huskies, with a loyal and friendly temperament.

Large breedSled dogCold climate
American Akita

American Akita

Advanced

Large breed developed in America from Akita Inu. Distinguished by heavy bone structure and imposing presence.

Large breedGuard dogAdvanced owners
American Bully

American Bully

Intermediate

A muscular, stocky breed. Despite their tough appearance, they are gentle, loving with family, and good with children.

Medium-large breedMuscularFamily dog
American Cocker Spaniel

American Cocker Spaniel

Beginner

Spaniel with abundant coat, famously featured in 'Lady and the Tramp.' Gentle, cheerful, and great with kids.

Beginner-friendlyMediumGentle
American Foxhound

American Foxhound

Intermediate

An American scent hound founded on dogs kept by George Washington. Gentle, friendly and full of stamina.

IntermediateLargeScent hound
American Pit Bull Terrier

American Pit Bull Terrier

Advanced

A muscular, athletic breed. With proper training and socialization, becomes a loyal and loving companion.

Medium breedMuscularHigh energy
American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier

Advanced

A muscular, courageous breed with fighting-dog roots, now firmly established as a show dog.

AdvancedMediumTerrier
Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dog

Advanced

Australian cattle herding dog. Extremely tough, intelligent, suited for active lifestyle owners.

Medium breedHerding dogHigh energy
Australian Kelpie

Australian Kelpie

Advanced

A tireless sheepdog of Australia's vast stations. Extremely intelligent and deeply loyal.

AdvancedMediumHerding dog

Australian Shepherd

Intermediate

American-origin herding dog. Beautiful merle coat and heterochromia. Extremely smart and athletic.

IntermediateMedium-LargeHerding dog
Australian Silky Terrier

Australian Silky Terrier

Intermediate

A small Australian terrier with a beautiful silky coat. Keen, alert and lively.

IntermediateSmallTerrier
Australian Terrier

Australian Terrier

Beginner

A working terrier with a harsh coat and rugged charm. A loyal, even-tempered companion.

BeginnerSmallTerrier
Azawakh

Azawakh

Advanced

A slim, elegant sighthound of Saharan nomads. Gentle and affectionate with its family.

AdvancedLargeSighthound
Basenji

Basenji

Intermediate

The 'barkless dog' from Africa. Cat-like in cleanliness and grooming habits.

IntermediateMediumBarkless
Basset Hound

Basset Hound

Beginner

Scent hound with long droopy ears and short legs. Laid-back personality with excellent sense of smell.

Medium breedScent houndLaid-back
Beagle

Beagle

Beginner

Famous as Snoopy's breed. Keen-nosed hound with endless curiosity. Cheerful and beloved family dog.

Beginner-friendlyMediumSocial
Bearded Collie

Bearded Collie

Intermediate

An all-weather herding dog trademarked by its beard. Calm, intelligent and popular as a family dog.

IntermediateMediumHerding dog
Beauceron

Beauceron

Advanced

France's large sheepdog nicknamed the Red Stocking. Frank, fearless and bold.

AdvancedLargeHerding dog
Bedlington Terrier

Bedlington Terrier

Intermediate

British small terrier with distinctive lamb-like curly coat. Gentle and affectionate yet athletic.

SmallLow-allergenActive
Belgian Griffon

Belgian Griffon

Intermediate

Small Belgian breed, close relative of Brussels Griffon. Expressive face and loyal personality.

Small breedCompanion dogBelgian breed

Dog FAQ

How much do dogs cost?
Prices vary by breed. From breeders directly, Toy Poodles typically run 200,000-450,000 yen, Chihuahuas 150,000-350,000 yen, Shiba Inu 120,000-250,000 yen, and large breeds 200,000-500,000 yen, varying with pedigree, coat, and the parents' track record.
What are the benefits of buying from a breeder?
The biggest advantage is being able to see the parent dogs and rearing environment, and to ask directly about temperament, health, and socialization. Under Japan's Animal Welfare Act, sellers must show the actual animal at their premises and provide in-person written explanation of care and date of birth before handover.
At what age can I bring home a puppy?
Under Japan's Animal Welfare Act, breeders cannot sell or hand over puppies until they are 56 days (8 weeks) old. For the six native Japanese breeds (Shiba, Akita, Kishu, Kai, Hokkaido, Shikoku) sold directly by specialist breeders, the threshold is 49 days (7 weeks).
How long do dogs live?
Generally, small breeds live 12-16 years, medium breeds 10-14 years, large breeds 10-13 years, and giant breeds 8-10 years. Proper diet, exercise, and regular checkups help extend their healthy lifespan.
What do I need to prepare before getting a dog?
Basics include a pen or crate, toileting supplies, food and bowls, a collar and leash, and grooming items. After bringing the dog home, promptly arrange a vet health check and vaccination plan, plus municipal registration and the required rabies vaccination.