Dog Encyclopedia — 223 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular dog breeds with traits, temperament, and care guides.
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Showing 54 of 223 species(1–24)
Afghan Hound
One of the most elegant breeds. Extremely independent sighthound.
Akita Inu
Japan's iconic breed, famous for Hachiko. Dignified and loyal. National treasure.
Alaskan Malamute
Large Arctic sled dog. Bigger and stronger than Huskies, with a loyal and friendly temperament.
American Akita
Large breed developed in America from Akita Inu. Distinguished by heavy bone structure and imposing presence.
American Pit Bull Terrier
A muscular, athletic breed. With proper training and socialization, becomes a loyal and loving companion.
American Staffordshire Terrier
A muscular, courageous breed with fighting-dog roots, now firmly established as a show dog.
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian cattle herding dog. Extremely tough, intelligent, suited for active lifestyle owners.
Australian Kelpie
A tireless sheepdog of Australia's vast stations. Extremely intelligent and deeply loyal.
Azawakh
A slim, elegant sighthound of Saharan nomads. Gentle and affectionate with its family.
Beauceron
France's large sheepdog nicknamed the Red Stocking. Frank, fearless and bold.
Belgian Shepherd Dog
Belgium's versatile sheepdog with four coat varieties. Watchful, vigorous and an outstanding guardian.
Bloodhound
The most powerful of scent hounds with an extraordinary nose. Gentle and deeply devoted to its master.
Bordeaux Mastiff
One of France's oldest mastiffs. Imposing in build yet deeply affectionate with its family.
Bouvier des Flandres
A rugged cattle-driving dog from the Flanders region of Belgium and France. Calm, bold and level-headed.
Brazilian Guard Dog
A rare South American guardian breed alongside the Dogo Argentino. So devoted that its loyalty is proverbial in Brazil.
Bullmastiff
Bred in England from the Bulldog and Mastiff as a night watchdog against intruders. High-spirited, vigilant and faithful.
Cane Corso
Italian large mastiff. Muscular and dignified, extremely loyal to family.
Caucasian Shepherd
A massive livestock guardian from the Caucasus region. Boldness and wariness toward strangers define the breed.
Central Asia Shepherd Dog
A giant flock guardian forged by the harsh environments of Central Asia. Powerful, courageous and adaptable to extreme climates.
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
Bred from German Shepherds and wolves. Wild appearance with high intelligence and loyal character.
Deerhound
A deer-hunting sighthound cherished by Scottish nobility. Huge yet graceful, docile and quiet at home.
Doberman Pinscher
Sleek, muscular, and elegant. Extremely intelligent and loyal guard dog.
Dogo Argentino
A pure white big-game hunting dog created by Dr. Antonio Nores Martinez. Cheerful and docile at home, clever and brave on the hunt.
Dutch Shepherd Dog
The versatile herding dog of the Netherlands, also excelling as a police and search dog. Loyal, intelligent and hardworking.
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.