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(25–48)
Estrela Mountain Dog
One of the oldest breeds of the Iberian Peninsula, guarding flocks from wolves in the Estrela mountains. Outstandingly devoted and loyal to its master.
German Hunting Terrier
Germany's versatile hunting terrier, boldly going to ground after quarry. Courageous, tough and fiery in temperament.
German Shorthaired Pointer
Versatile German gun dog, athletic and intelligent. Excellent family companion with high stamina.
Giant Schnauzer
Largest Schnauzer variety. Powerful build with high intelligence, excels as guard and working dog.
Great Swiss Mountain Dog
A majestic tricolor giant that once hauled carts in the Swiss mountains. A calm, dependable family dog.
Greenland Dog
One of the world's oldest breeds, the sled dog of the Eskimo peoples. Energetic, tireless and tough.
Hokkaido Ken
Also called Ainu dog. Hardy breed withstanding extreme cold. Brave enough to face bears.
Irish Wolfhound
One of the tallest dog breeds. Despite massive size, has a gentle and noble temperament.
Kai Ken
Japanese breed from Yamanashi with brindle coat. Known for extreme loyalty to one master.
Kangal Shepherd Dog
Turkey's proud livestock guardian. Calm, courageous and deeply loyal, a giant watchdog.
© Sabine, user of DogWiki / CC BY-SA 3.0Kishu Ken
Japanese hunting breed from Kii Peninsula. Deeply loyal to one master. National treasure.
Komondor
Hungary's corded livestock guardian. A dignified protector devoted to its flock and territory.
Korea Jindo Dog
A primitive hunting dog preserved on Korea's Jindo Island. Bold, courageous and intensely loyal to its owner.
Kuvasz
An ancient Hungarian livestock guardian, brave and loyal, protecting those it trusts with its life.
Maremma Sheepdog
An ancient white Italian guardian that has protected flocks in the mountains for centuries. Majestic and deeply devoted to its master.
Mastiff
An ancient heavyweight breed depicted in reliefs from before Christ. Calm, steady and deeply affectionate toward its family.
Neapolitan Mastiff
A massive Italian guardian whose ancestors marched with the Roman legions. Calm, loyal and majestic.
Old English Sheepdog
A large breed covered in thick, fluffy coat. Cheerful and loving, also known as Bobtail.
Peruvian Hairless Dog
An ancient Peruvian breed depicted on pre-Inca pottery. Noble and affectionate with family, and an excellent watchdog.
Presa Canario
A molossian guard dog that protected cattle in the Canary Islands. Calm and confident, obedient and devoted to its family.
Pyrenean Mastiff
A giant livestock guardian raised deep in the Pyrenees to protect herds from wolves and bears. Gentle, obedient, noble and highly intelligent.
Rottweiler
Powerful guard dog. Gentle with family. For experienced owners.
Saarloos Wolfdog
A Dutch breed created by crossing a German Shepherd with a wolf. Wolf-like in appearance, yet deeply devoted to its master.
Sarplaninac
An ancient livestock guardian from the Balkan mountains. Calm and dependable, with a powerful protective instinct.
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.