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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 Pit Bull Terrier

American Pit Bull Terrier

Advanced

A muscular, athletic breed. With proper training and socialization, becomes a loyal and loving companion.

Medium breedMuscularHigh energy
Australian Cattle Dog

Australian Cattle Dog

Advanced

Australian cattle herding dog. Extremely tough, intelligent, suited for active lifestyle owners.

Medium breedHerding dogHigh energy
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
Brittany Spaniel

Brittany Spaniel

Intermediate

French hunting dog from Brittany region. Energetic and smart, perfect outdoor activity partner.

Medium breedHunting dogOutdoor
Chow Chow

Chow Chow

Intermediate

Chinese breed with lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. Independent yet deeply affectionate with their owner.

Medium breedChinese breedIndependent
Lagotto Romagnolo

Lagotto Romagnolo

Intermediate

Italian water dog famous for truffle hunting. Curly coat and gentle temperament make it a wonderful companion.

Medium breedHypoallergenicTruffle dog
Medium Poodle

Medium Poodle

Beginner

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

Medium breedHypoallergenicGrooming breed
Miniature American Shepherd

Miniature American Shepherd

Intermediate

Smaller version of the Australian Shepherd. Smart and active with high working ability in a compact body.

Medium breedHerding dogActive
Miniature Bull Terrier

Miniature Bull Terrier

Intermediate

Smaller version of the Bull Terrier. Distinctive egg-shaped head and unique expression, mischievous and fun-loving.

Medium breedTerrierUnique
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Intermediate

Cheerful French scent hound with rough coat and long drooping ears. Always happy and fun-loving.

Medium breedScent houndCheerful
Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog

Intermediate

Portuguese fishermen companion and expert swimmer. Famous as President Obama's pet.

Medium breedHypoallergenicWater dog
Standard Dachshund

Standard Dachshund

Beginner

The original and largest Dachshund variety. Originally bred for badger hunting, brave and active.

Medium breedHunting dogBeginner friendly

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.