Dog Glossary

An official lineage certificate issued by kennel clubs such as the JKC (Japan Kennel Club). It records the breed and registration numbers of both parents and grandparents, certifying the dog as purebred.

An electronic identification tag implanted under the skin at the back of the neck. Mandatory for dogs and cats in Japan since June 2022, the roughly 2 mm chip stores a 15-digit ID that links to owner information.

The critical window between 3 and 14 weeks of age when puppies adapt to various environments, people, animals, and sounds. Ample positive experiences during this period help prevent behavioral issues and excessive fearfulness in adulthood.

A vaccine that protects against multiple infectious diseases—such as distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus—in a single shot. The initial series starts at 6–8 weeks of age, with regular boosters recommended thereafter.

Preventive medication against heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis), a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. Monthly oral or topical treatments during mosquito season (typically May–December in Japan) keep dogs protected.

The estrus cycle in female dogs. Small breeds usually experience their first heat at 6–10 months of age, recurring roughly every six months. Signs include vulvar swelling and bleeding; spaying can prevent heat cycles if breeding is not planned.

Training a dog to view its crate or kennel as a safe personal space. Useful for travel, hospital stays, and emergency evacuations, crate training can also help reduce separation anxiety.

Gentle biting by puppies during play or teething. If allowed to mouth human hands and feet, the habit may persist into adulthood, so it is important to patiently teach bite inhibition while the dog is still young.

Commonly known as 'luxating patella,' a joint condition where the kneecap slips out of place. It is especially common in small breeds such as Toy Poodles and Chihuahuas and may require surgery in severe cases.

An informal term for dogs significantly smaller than the breed standard. Not recognized by any official kennel club, extreme miniaturization raises the risk of hypoglycemia, fractures, and organ problems.

Purchasing a puppy directly from the breeder without going through a pet shop. This eliminates middleman costs, often resulting in fairer prices, and allows buyers to see the parent dogs and living conditions firsthand.

A government registration system required for businesses involved in selling, breeding, or exhibiting dogs. Under Japan's Animal Welfare Act, registration with the prefectural or city government is mandatory, and the registration number must be publicly displayed.