Dog Encyclopedia — 223 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular dog breeds with traits, temperament, and care guides.
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Showing 19 of 223 species
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.
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.
Bouvier des Flandres
A rugged cattle-driving dog from the Flanders region of Belgium and France. Calm, bold and level-headed.
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.
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 Shorthaired Pointer
Versatile German gun dog, athletic and intelligent. Excellent family companion with high stamina.
Greenland Dog
One of the world's oldest breeds, the sled dog of the Eskimo peoples. Energetic, tireless and tough.
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.
Presa Canario
A molossian guard dog that protected cattle in the Canary Islands. Calm and confident, obedient and devoted to its family.
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.
Tosa
The Japanese Mastiff, created in Japan by crossing the Shikoku dog with Western breeds. Patient, composed, bold and courageous.
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.