A collection of frequently asked questions about dog care, covering initial costs, recommended breeds, diet, training, and more
In addition to the purchase price from a breeder (roughly ¥100,000–¥500,000 depending on breed), you will need a crate or playpen (¥10,000–¥30,000), bowls, leash, and collar (around ¥10,000), plus vaccinations and microchipping (¥20,000–¥30,000). Budget ¥300,000–¥800,000 for the first year including medical expenses. See our Dog Buying Guide for more details.
Gentle, easy-to-care-for breeds are recommended for beginners. Popular choices include Toy Poodles (intelligent and easy to train), Shiba Inu (well-adapted to the Japanese climate), Miniature Dachshunds (relatively low exercise needs), and Golden Retrievers (friendly and beginner-friendly). Check out the listings in our dog category.
Always remember foods that are toxic to dogs: onions and alliums, grapes and raisins, chocolate, and xylitol. Choose a complete and balanced diet appropriate for your dog's age, weight, and activity level, and stick to the recommended daily portions. Always provide fresh water, and keep treats to no more than 10% of daily caloric intake. See our Dog Beginner's Guide for more information.
Ideally, training should begin on the very first day you bring your puppy home. The period from 3 to 12 weeks is called the "socialization window" — the best time to expose your puppy to various people, sounds, and environments. House training and basic commands (sit, stay) can start as early as 8 weeks. Use positive reinforcement — reward good behavior rather than punishing mistakes. See our Beginner's Guide for more tips.
Exercise needs vary by breed, age, and health. As a guideline: small breeds need two walks of 15–30 minutes each per day, medium breeds need 30–45 minutes each, and large breeds need 45–60+ minutes each. Puppies should start walks after completing their vaccinations, beginning with short outings and gradually increasing duration. Insufficient exercise can lead to stress and behavioral problems. See our Dog Glossary for breed-specific details.
Puppies receive combination vaccines (5-way to 10-way) starting at 6–8 weeks of age, given 2–3 times, followed by annual boosters. In Japan, rabies vaccination is required by law every year. Avoid strenuous exercise on the day of vaccination, and consult your veterinarian promptly if side effects occur. Confirm vaccination status with the breeder before purchase — find breeders in our dog category.
Spaying and neutering not only prevent unwanted breeding but also offer health benefits. In females, it reduces the risk of pyometra and mammary tumors; in males, it helps prevent testicular cancer and prostate enlargement. Surgery is generally recommended between 6 and 12 months. See our Dog Buying Guide or consult your veterinarian for details.
Buying from a breeder lets you verify the parents' information, health screening results, and temperament in advance. Puppies are often properly socialized and started on early training, and hereditary disease risks are easier to assess. You also receive aftercare support for ongoing care advice. Learn more in our Dog Buying Guide.
Live animal shipping is typically done via air freight or ground transport by specialized carriers. Puppies cannot fully regulate their body temperature, so proper climate control is essential. After arrival, let the puppy rest in a quiet place and avoid excessive handling on the first day. Monitor appetite and elimination, and visit a vet immediately if anything seems abnormal. See our Live Animal Shipping Guide for more details.
Under Japan's Rabies Prevention Act, rabies vaccination and municipal registration are mandatory for all dogs. Microchip implantation and registration have been required since June 2022 (strongly recommended for existing pets). If you live in an apartment, check the pet policy in your building's regulations. For any questions, feel free to contact us.