A comprehensive guide for first-time dog owners covering laws, costs, preparation, health care, and choosing a breeder.
Dog ownership comes with legal responsibilities. In Japan, the Animal Welfare Act requires proper care from all pet owners.
You must register your dog at your local municipality within 30 days of acquisition. A registration tag will be issued.
Dogs over 91 days old must receive an annual rabies vaccination by law. The vaccination tag must be attached to the dog.
Since June 2022, microchipping is mandatory for dogs sold by breeders and pet shops. Ownership transfer requires updating the registration.
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.
Prevent noise and waste issues with proper training and environment. Check building rules if living in an apartment.
Choosing the right breed significantly affects your quality of life with your dog. Select a breed that matches your lifestyle.
Choose a breed that suits your home. Small breeds work well in apartments; quieter breeds are preferred in shared buildings.
Exercise requirements vary greatly. Active owners suit Border Collies or Goldens; calmer lifestyles suit French Bulldogs or Shih Tzus.
Consider grooming needs. Poodle types shed less, French Bulldogs are short-haired, Yorkies need more grooming. Look into hypoallergenic breeds if needed.
Toy Poodles, Cavaliers, and Pugs are popular for first-time owners due to their gentle temperament and trainability.
Gentle breeds suit families with young children. For those living alone, breeds that handle being alone are ideal.
Small breeds live 12-18 years, large breeds 8-12 years. Consider your long-term life plans when choosing.
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.
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.
Get 1-2 annual check-ups including blood tests, weight, dental, and heartworm tests. Senior dogs (7+) should be checked twice yearly.
Monthly heartworm prevention is needed during mosquito season (April-December). Year-round flea and tick prevention is recommended.
During daily interaction, check eyes, ears, mouth, skin, coat, appetite, and elimination. Early detection of issues is key.
About 80% of dogs over 3 have periodontal disease. Make daily brushing, dental chews, and dental toys a routine.
Before bringing your dog home, find a convenient veterinary clinic. Also locate the nearest emergency animal hospital.
Getting your dog from a trustworthy breeder means a healthy, well-socialized companion. Check the following points.
Dog sales require a Type 1 animal handling business registration. Check the registration number. BreederDirect verifies all breeders' registrations.
Ensure clean, appropriately sized facilities. Request a visit if possible to see conditions firsthand.
Check if genetic testing (DNA tests) has been done and ask about parent dogs' health. Good breeders disclose test results.
Choose breeders who invest in puppy socialization with people, other dogs, and various environments. Poor socialization leads to future behavioral issues.
Choose breeders who offer ongoing care advice. Responsible breeders take lifelong responsibility for their puppies.
By law, puppies cannot be handed over before 56 days (8 weeks) old. Avoid breeders who offer earlier handover.
Buy with confidence from breeders verified by BreederDirect