Dog Encyclopedia — 223 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular dog breeds with traits, temperament, and care guides.
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Showing 20 of 223 species
Bordeaux Mastiff
One of France's oldest mastiffs. Imposing in build yet deeply affectionate with its family.
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.
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.
Deerhound
A deer-hunting sighthound cherished by Scottish nobility. Huge yet graceful, docile and quiet at home.
Great Dane
One of the tallest breeds. Gentle giant. Lifespan: 7〜10年.
Great Pyrenees
Massive white guardian from the Pyrenees. Calm and dignified. Independent thinker.
Great Swiss Mountain Dog
A majestic tricolor giant that once hauled carts in the Swiss mountains. A calm, dependable family dog.
Irish Wolfhound
One of the tallest dog breeds. Despite massive size, has a gentle and noble temperament.
Kangal Shepherd Dog
Turkey's proud livestock guardian. Calm, courageous and deeply loyal, a giant watchdog.
Komondor
Hungary's corded livestock guardian. A dignified protector devoted to its flock and territory.
© Kurre92 / CC BY-SA 4.0Leonberger
Lion-like mane on a gentle giant. Calm, patient, and excellent swimmer.
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.
Newfoundland
Gentle giant. Exceptional swimmer with rescue heritage. Especially gentle with children.
Pyrenean Mastiff
A giant livestock guardian raised deep in the Pyrenees to protect herds from wolves and bears. Gentle, obedient, noble and highly intelligent.
Saint Bernard
Legendary Alpine rescue dog. Gentle and wonderful with children.
Spanish Mastiff
Spain's giant guardian, protecting Merino flocks from wolves since the Middle Ages. Gentle and affectionate, yet utterly resolute against intruders.
Tibetan Mastiff
The legendary giant guardian of Himalayan nomads and Tibetan monasteries. Highly independent, loyal to family and territory.
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.