Hokkaido Dog Breed Information:
The Hokkaido is a purebred dog from Japan. Intelligent, alert, and devoted to their families, these pooches have qualities that make them excellent companions. The Hokkaido goes several names, including Ainu-ken, Seta, and Ainu dog. In Japan specifically, their name is shortened to Do-ken. Though this breed is somewhat rare outside of Japan.
Hokkaido Dog Group: Working Dogs.
Hokkaido Height: 18 to 22 Inches.
Hokkaido Weight: 45 to 65 Pounds.
Hokkaido Life Span: 11 to 13 Years.
More About This Dog Breed:
The Hokkaido breed has a prey drive, but they're highly intelligent and will listen to their owners when commanded, which makes them easily trainable. Hokkaidos will bark occasionally, as they're ever-vigilant and able to notice anything out of the ordinary. Though, they will also howl if they are happy or excited. The main colors of the Hokkaido breed are black, red, black & tan, white, brindle, and sesame.
Hokkaido History:
The Hokkaido dog is a Spitz type of working dog who originated from the main island of Hokkaido, though some believe they were from Honshu, another main island south of Hokkaido. Experts believe the Hokkaido to be the oldest dog breed to exist and most primitive of all Japanese dog breeds. In 1869, British zoologist Thomas Blankiston discovered the Hokkaido dog in Japan and gave them their name we now know today.
Hokkaido Size:
The Hokkaido dog breed are all medium-sized in build. Most weigh in the range between 45 and 65 pounds and range in height between 18 and 22 inches. That said, many can be smaller or larger.
Hokkaido Personality:
The Hokkaido dog is a very devoted, affectionate breed especially to their owners and family. They have many great qualities about them like being alert of their surroundings, playful, and intelligent. This beautiful breed can be great playmates with children, especially when raised with them or properly socialized at a young age.
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Hokkaido Health:
The Hokkaido dog breed is generally very healthy, though some might be prone to hereditary diseases:
Anxiety.
Psychogenic polydipsia.
Pica.
Collie eye anomaly.
Hip dysplasia.
Luxating patella.
Heart murmurs.
Idiopathic seizures.
Hokkaido Care:
As with all dogs, you should keep up with your Hokkaido's regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. The frequency of brushing should be increased during their shedding period. Make sure to invest in a good quality wire comb to reach the under coat. Baths are recommended generally a few times a year to prevent issues.
Hokkaido Feeding:
As with all dogs, the Hokkaido's dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Hokkaido's diet.
Hokkaido Coat Color And Grooming:
The main colors of the Hokkaido breed are black, red, black & tan, white, brindle, and sesame. Hokkaido dog breeds are double coated, they are able to withstand colder weather. In summer, they might shed more, which will lead you to brush them more often.
Hokkaido with Children And Other Pets:
The Hokkaido can be great with children of all ages and sizes, though it is best when they are raised with them or are socialized properly at a young age. When it comes to other pets, it is best they are not around smaller animals such as cats, hamsters, and guinea pigs.