How much does it cost to start owning a dog?

In addition to the purchase price, expect 30,000-100,000 yen for supplies (crate, bowls, toilet items, leash, etc.) plus 10,000-30,000 yen for initial vaccinations and health checks.

What dog breeds are best for first-time owners?

Toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Shih Tzus are considered beginner-friendly due to their gentle temperament and trainability.

Are there registration requirements for dog ownership in Japan?

You must register your dog with your local municipality within 30 days of acquisition. Annual rabies vaccination and reporting are also legally required.

What to Know Before Getting a Dog

A comprehensive guide for first-time dog owners covering laws, costs, preparation, health care, and choosing a breeder.

1Laws & Responsibilities

Dog ownership comes with legal responsibilities. In Japan, the Animal Welfare Act requires proper care from all pet owners.

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Dog Registration

You must register your dog at your local municipality within 30 days of acquisition. A registration tag will be issued.

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Rabies Vaccination

Dogs over 91 days old must receive an annual rabies vaccination by law. The vaccination tag must be attached to the dog.

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Microchip

Since June 2022, microchipping is mandatory for dogs sold by breeders and pet shops. Ownership transfer requires updating the registration.

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Lifetime Responsibility

The Animal Welfare Act requires owners to care for their pets for life. Dogs live 10-15 years on average. Understand the long-term commitment.

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Neighborhood Consideration

Prevent noise and waste issues with proper training and environment. Check building rules if living in an apartment.

2Choosing a Breed

Choosing the right breed significantly affects your quality of life with your dog. Select a breed that matches your lifestyle.

Living Environment

Choose a breed that suits your home. Small breeds work well in apartments; quieter breeds are preferred in shared buildings.

Exercise Needs

Exercise requirements vary greatly. Active owners suit Border Collies or Goldens; calmer lifestyles suit French Bulldogs or Shih Tzus.

Coat Type

Consider grooming needs. Poodle types shed less, French Bulldogs are short-haired, Yorkies need more grooming. Look into hypoallergenic breeds if needed.

Beginner Friendliness

Toy Poodles, Cavaliers, and Pugs are popular for first-time owners due to their gentle temperament and trainability.

Family Composition

Gentle breeds suit families with young children. For those living alone, breeds that handle being alone are ideal.

Lifespan & Planning

Small breeds live 12-18 years, large breeds 8-12 years. Consider your long-term life plans when choosing.

3Initial & Monthly Costs

Initial Cost Estimates

Dog purchase price(Varies by breed and lineage)

100,000-800,000 yen

Dog registration fee(Varies by municipality)

~3,000 yen

Rabies vaccination(Required annually)

3,000-3,500 yen

Combined vaccines(Multiple doses in first year)

5,000-10,000 yen

Supplies(Crate, bowls, toilet, leash, etc.)

30,000-100,000 yen

Spay/neuter (optional)(Varies by breed, weight, sex)

20,000-50,000 yen

Monthly Cost Estimates

Food(By size and food quality)

3,000-10,000 yen

Treats & supplements

1,000-3,000 yen

Toilet sheets & consumables

1,000-3,000 yen

Grooming (if needed)(1-2 times/month)

5,000-15,000 yen

Pet insurance (optional)(By age and coverage)

2,000-5,000 yen

Regular vet visits(Annual average)

2,000-5,000 yen/month avg

Monthly costs typically range from 10,000-30,000 yen for small dogs and 30,000-50,000 yen for large dogs. We recommend pet insurance or a medical savings fund for unexpected veterinary expenses.

4Supplies Checklist

Living Space

Crate or playpen
Dog bed or mat
Toilet tray + toilet sheets
Blankets and towels

Feeding

Food and water bowls
Age-appropriate dog food
Treats
Water dispenser (if needed)

Outings

Collar or harness
Leash
Carrier bag or crate
Waste bags

Grooming

Brush and comb
Dog shampoo
Nail clippers
Dental care set
Ear cleaning supplies

5Health Care Basics

Vaccinations

Combined vaccines (5-9 types) are given 2-3 times during puppyhood, then every 1-3 years. Rabies vaccination is legally required annually. Consult your vet for the schedule.

Regular Check-ups

Get 1-2 annual check-ups including blood tests, weight, dental, and heartworm tests. Senior dogs (7+) should be checked twice yearly.

Heartworm, Flea & Tick Prevention

Monthly heartworm prevention is needed during mosquito season (April-December). Year-round flea and tick prevention is recommended.

Daily Health Checks

During daily interaction, check eyes, ears, mouth, skin, coat, appetite, and elimination. Early detection of issues is key.

Dental Care

About 80% of dogs over 3 have periodontal disease. Make daily brushing, dental chews, and dental toys a routine.

Find a Regular Vet

Before bringing your dog home, find a convenient veterinary clinic. Also locate the nearest emergency animal hospital.

6Choosing a Breeder

Getting your dog from a trustworthy breeder means a healthy, well-socialized companion. Check the following points.

Verify Business Registration

Dog sales require a Type 1 animal handling business registration. Check the registration number. BreederDirect verifies all breeders' registrations.

Check Breeding Environment

Ensure clean, appropriately sized facilities. Request a visit if possible to see conditions firsthand.

Parent Dog Health

Check if genetic testing (DNA tests) has been done and ask about parent dogs' health. Good breeders disclose test results.

Socialization Efforts

Choose breeders who invest in puppy socialization with people, other dogs, and various environments. Poor socialization leads to future behavioral issues.