Hokkaido Dog Breed Information and Characteristics

The Hokkaido dog breed is a rare and ancient one, originating from the island of Hokkaido in Japan. They were originally bred to hunt small game.

Their thick coats are a testament to their origins, with a double layer of fur that keeps them warm in cold climates. This coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

One of the most distinctive characteristics of the Hokkaido is its size, with adults typically weighing between 55-75 pounds. This makes them a sturdy and compact breed.

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The Hokkaido Dog is a medium-sized breed, typically standing 18-20 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 30-60 pounds.

This breed is part of the Working group and has a lifespan of 12-15 years.

Their thick, double coat can be any color, but the most common colors are black, red, brindle, and sesame.

They are intelligent, alert, loyal, affectionate, and good with children and other pets, making them a great addition to many families.

To keep their coat from matting, moderate grooming is required, including regular brushing and combing, as well as occasional bathing.

Here are some key breed characteristics:

The Hokkaido Dog is a medium-sized breed, typically standing between 18-20 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 30-60 pounds.

These dogs have a thick, double coat that can be any color, but the most common colors are black, red, brindle, and sesame.

As a breed group, the Hokkaido Dog falls under the working category, indicating their versatility and ability to perform various tasks.

Hokkaido Dogs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.

They require moderate grooming to prevent matting, and regular brushing and combing is essential to keep their coat in good condition.

A daily walk or playtime session is necessary to keep these active dogs happy and exercised.

Despite their popularity, most Hokkaido Dogs have red or brown hair rather than white, as seen in the case of Otosan, a famous Hokkaido Dog who starred in Japanese commercials.

Their lifespan is typically between 12-15 years, making them a long-term companion for many families.

Here's a quick rundown of the Hokkaido Dog's basic characteristics:

The Hokkaido dog is an ancient breed, with origins dating back to the 1140s.

They are believed to be the oldest of the native six Japanese spitz breeds, and their ancestors date back to the time of the indigenous groups migrating in Japan.

The Hokkaido dog's ancestors were isolated from the rest of the dogs that developed into the other five Japanese breeds, resulting in their unique characteristics.

Their signature double coat, large paws, and muscular build were adaptations to the freezing cold climates and rough landscape of the island of Hokkaido.

In 1937, the Hokkaido dog was declared a Living Natural Monument by Japan's government and given their official name Hokkaido Ken in honor of their native island.

Hokkaido dogs were crucial in the Ainu people's survival, helping them hunt bears, deer, and other large game.

In 1902, Hokkaido dogs aided in the search of survivors after an Army expedition got caught in a heavy snowstorm in the Hakkōda Mountains.

Their fearless nature and intelligence made them a valuable asset in search and rescue missions, a skill they still possess today.

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You can purchase a Hokkaido puppy from a reputable breeder like KOUFUKUNA❤️INU, which breeds Japanese breeds such as Akita Inu, Hokkaido, and Shiba Inu.

To buy a puppy, you can place an order on the breeder's website or contact them through various channels like Viber, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Instagram Direct.

You'll receive all the necessary advice and answers from the breeder after placing an order.

In most cases, puppies are sold after being pre-booked in future litters of the parents.

Puppies can also be sold on availability, and these dogs have their own separate pages on the breeder's website with their own price, photos, and descriptions.

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The Hokkaido dog is a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming, but they do require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need at least an hour of walking, twice a day, to keep them calm and relaxed.

To prevent boredom and stress, which can lead to destructive behavior, it's essential to provide them with daily exercise and mental stimulation. Hokkaido dogs love to dig holes, so a securely fenced yard or a nearby park is a must.

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In hot climates, it's crucial to take extra precautions to keep your Hokkaido cool and comfortable. Make sure they have access to plenty of water, use a fan or air conditioner to keep them cool, and consider moving them to a cooler room if possible.

Here are some key things to remember when it comes to exercising and caring for your Hokkaido:

Remember, a happy and healthy Hokkaido is a well-exercised and well-cared-for Hokkaido!

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As you're thinking about bringing a Hokkaido dog into your home, it's essential to consider their size.

Hokkaido dogs are generally medium-sized in build, with most weighing between 45 and 65 pounds.

Their height can range from 18 to 22 inches, but some may be smaller or larger.

Female Hokkaido dogs tend to be smaller in stature and weigh less, but still fit within the 44 to 57 pound weight range.

Male Hokkaido dogs are slightly taller, with a height range of 19 to 22 inches, and weigh between 53 and 66 pounds.

Knowing their size can help you prepare your home and provide the right amount of exercise and space for your new furry friend.

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Maintenance is a crucial aspect of caring for a Hokkaido dog. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during shedding periods, which can be twice a year.

Hokkaido dogs need to be brushed almost every day during their shedding periods, with a frequency of daily grooming recommended.

A hairpin brush and a metal comb are ideal tools for brushing their thick coat, especially during shedding. A doshedder can also be used to make the process easier.

Hokkaido dogs do not like to take baths, and their thick coat takes a long time to dry. It's recommended to bathe them no more than 2-3 times a year to prevent skin problems and disruption of their natural layer of fat.

To prevent skin problems, it's essential to avoid bathing them too frequently, as this can remove the beneficial oils from their coat. Instead, use a damp towel to wipe their body during shedding.

In hot climates, it's crucial to provide Hokkaido dogs with a cool atmosphere, using a fan or air conditioner, and ensuring they have access to plenty of water.

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When choosing a chewy treat for your dog, make sure to give the appropriate sized piece for the dog's size, and remove the treat before it gets small enough that the dog doesn't choke on swallowing.

Experiment with what your dog likes and use common sense. Some dogs enjoy chewing on ice cubes, apple wedges and carrots, especially when teething due to the hard and cold texture.

Puppy-safe chew treats include dehydrated vegetables, dry meat sticks, and treats based on dehydrated meat like tendons, trachea, and jerky.

However, be cautious of fatty treats like pig's ear, which may be too fatty for young puppies.

For adult dogs with adult teeth, you can try giving them a split horn of an elk or deer, which has a large area of exposed bone marrow.

Edible gummies can add unnecessary calories in the form of carbohydrates, so use with caution.

Some healthy and tasty options for adult dogs include cucumber slices, seedless, green beans, baked sweet potatoes, and steamed broccoli.

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Hokkaido dogs are known for being extremely loyal to their families and desire the love and affection of their humans above all else.

They wear their hearts on their sleeves, are honest and direct in their feelings, and don't hide their emotions, making them very easy to read.

Hokkaido dogs are highly intelligent and respond well to training, picking up cues from their owners with ease.

As a result, they make great companions for active families who are willing to provide them with regular walks and activity to burn off their excess energy.

In fact, they have a lot of behavior traits similar to Labrador retrievers in terms of being silly, bouncy, devoted, active family dogs that want to be very involved in family activity.

However, their strong prey drive means they may not be the best fit for households with small pets like cats, hamsters, and guinea pigs.

With proper socialization and training, Hokkaido dogs can get along with other dogs and even children, making them great playmates and guard dogs.

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They are naturally alert and vigilant, always on the lookout for potential threats, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as aggression.

But in reality, their howling and barking are just a sign of their excitement and happiness, and they will always listen to their owners when commanded.

Overall, Hokkaido dogs are a unique and loving breed that thrive on attention and affection from their families.

To live with a Hokkaido dog, you'll need a house with a larger yard, as they thrive in spaces where they can run around freely. This breed is not ideal for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for physical and mental stimulation.

Hokkaido dogs love cold weather and playing in the snow, making them a great fit for families living in colder climates. They're also great companions on camping or hiking trips, especially if you have small children who will enjoy playing with them.

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You should have a tall fence in your backyard, as Hokkaido dogs are good jumpers and can easily escape if they're not properly secured. They also have a tendency to howl and make silly noises when happy or excited, so be prepared for some noise.

To keep your Hokkaido dog happy and healthy, you'll need to provide them with regular exercise, both physically and mentally. This can include activities like hiking, running, or agility training, and should be done every day.

Here are some essential care tips to keep in mind:

The Hokkaido dog breed is generally very healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. A healthy Hokkaido can live 12-15 years on average.

Some common health problems that may affect Hokkaido dogs include Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), a genetic eye condition that can cause vision issues, and hip dysplasia, a developmental disorder of the hip joint where the ball and socket of the hip joint do not fit together properly. CEA is an inherited disorder caused by a mutation in the canine chromosome 37.

Hokkaido dogs may also suffer from luxating patella, a common orthopedic condition that can affect dogs, leading to various degrees of lameness and discomfort. Heart murmurs, which are an abnormal sound heard during the cardiac cycle, can also be a sign of an underlying issue within the heart or blood vessels.

Idiopathic seizures, anxiety, and psychogenic polydipsia are other potential health issues that may affect Hokkaido dogs. Pica, a behavioral disorder characterized by the consumption of non-food items, can be concerning and potentially dangerous.

To maintain your Hokkaido's health, regular veterinary checkups are essential. Your breeder can also do a genetic test on your puppy to see if they carry the gene for CEA.

A balanced diet is crucial for the overall health of your Hokkaido. A reliable source of animal protein, such as chicken, turkey, or salmon, should be the main ingredient in their diet. You can also consider adding supplements, such as vitamins C, E, and A for skin health, and omega-3 fatty acids to fight inflammation and coat health.

Here are some essential nutrients that your Hokkaido may need:

Regular dental care is also crucial for your Hokkaido's overall health. Brushing their teeth 2-3 times a week can help prevent tartar buildup and periodontal disease. You can also use alternative options, such as sprays for teeth, chew toys, and raw bones, to keep their teeth healthy.

Here are some tips for maintaining your Hokkaido's health:

Hokkaido dogs are a rare breed outside of Japan, which can make finding breed-specific rescue groups challenging.

You may want to try general dog rescues that cater to all breeds, as they often will help keep an eye out for the Hokkaido you're looking for.

It may be worth reaching out to multiple rescue groups to increase your chances of finding a Hokkaido in need of a new home.

A breed standard is a set of guidelines that outlines the ideal characteristics of a specific breed of dog. These characteristics can include size, coat type, color, and temperament.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) is one of the most well-known organizations that establishes breed standards for various breeds. The AKC has over 200 recognized breeds with their own breed standards.

Breed standards are not just about physical characteristics, but also about the temperament and behavior of the breed. For example, the breed standard for the Golden Retriever emphasizes the importance of a friendly, gentle, and even-tempered nature.

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The breed standard is used as a guide for breeders to produce puppies that meet the desired characteristics of the breed. It's also used by kennel clubs and dog registries to ensure consistency and accuracy in breed identification.

A well-established breed standard can help to ensure the health and well-being of the breed by promoting responsible breeding practices.

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If you're looking to find a Hokkaido rescue, you may have to get creative. It's hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Hokkaidos outside of Japan because they're a rare breed.

Hokkaido Rescue Groups may be hard to come by, but you can try general dog rescues that cater to all breeds. They often keep an eye out for specific breeds like Hokkaidos.

You can try contacting general dog rescues to see if they know of any Hokkaidos available for adoption. They may have a lead on a Hokkaido in need of a forever home.

Some general dog rescues you can try include those that cater to all breeds, as they often help keep an eye out for specific breeds like Hokkaidos.

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