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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 12 of 223 species

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
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
Cesky Terrier

Cesky Terrier

Beginner

A Czech hunting terrier created by crossing the Sealyham and Scottish Terriers. Non-aggressive, cheerful and easy to train.

BeginnerSmallTerrier
Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever

Beginner

Friendly, reliable large breed beloved as a family dog and widely used as a service or rescue dog.

Beginner-friendlyLargeFamily dog
Great Swiss Mountain Dog

Great Swiss Mountain Dog

Advanced

A majestic tricolor giant that once hauled carts in the Swiss mountains. A calm, dependable family dog.

AdvancedGiantWorking dog
Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Irish Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier

Intermediate

One of Ireland's oldest terriers with a soft wheaten coat. Cheerful, affectionate and non-aggressive.

IntermediateMediumTerrier
Keeshond

Keeshond

Beginner

A spitz with a lush silver-grey coat and signature spectacles. Loyal, quick to learn and an ideal family dog.

BeginnerMediumSpitz
Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Beginner

One of the world's most popular breeds. Gentle, social, intelligent, and highly trainable.

Beginner-friendlyLargeFamily dog
Medium Poodle

Medium Poodle

Beginner

Medium-sized poodle between Standard and Miniature. Well-balanced build, ideal family companion size.

Medium breedHypoallergenicGrooming breed
Old English Sheepdog

Old English Sheepdog

Advanced

A large breed covered in thick, fluffy coat. Cheerful and loving, also known as Bobtail.

Large breedHerding dogFluffy
Standard Schnauzer

Standard Schnauzer

Intermediate

Once called the rat catcher, a stable guard from southern Germany. Combines liveliness with composure; good with children and a fine family dog.

IntermediateMediumWatchdog
White Swiss Shepherd Dog

White Swiss Shepherd Dog

Intermediate

A shepherd-type family dog in pure white. Vigorous and obedient, especially friendly with children.

IntermediateLargeShepherd

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.