The Hokkaido dog, also known as the Ainu Inu, is traditionally kept as a hunting dog in its native Japan. Its bravery, astuteness, and protective instincts also make it an excellent guard dog. However, this robust and primitive dog is only partially suitable as a family pet.
The lively and graceful gait of the Hokkaido reveals how agile and fast this breed is. Their well-developed muscles, clearly defined, show the enormous strength and endurance they possess. The Hokkaido has a robust bone structure within a medium-sized, well-proportioned body. Its fur is also resilient, comprising hard, straight guard hairs and a soft, dense undercoat.
It resembles the Akita, also from Japan. The Hokkaido has a comparatively broad head with small, dark eyes and erect, forward-tilting ears shaped like triangles. Its bushy tail is carried rolled or curved over its back.
How Large and How Heavy is the Hokkaido?
With a body size of 45.5 to 51.5cm, the Hokkaido is among the medium-sized dogs, making it a bit smaller than the Akita. While weight is not explicitly defined in the breed standard, it should always be proportionate to the dog’s size.
The fur of the Hokkaido comes in the following colour variations:
Brindle
Red
Black
White
Sesame (red-yellowish with black tips)
Black and tan
Its nose is usually black, but white dogs may have a flesh-coloured nose. Some Ainus also have a blue-black tongue, a trait suggesting distant ties to the Chow-Chow.
Character
The Hokkaido is a typical one-person dog, fully devoted to its “pack leader.” While it accepts and protects other family members, this proud breed tends to ignore commands from anyone other than its primary handler. Thus, as with most dogs, it’s the responsibility of the owner to set the rules of cohabitation and lovingly but firmly communicate these to the dog. Due to the dominant and stubborn nature of this Japanese breed, even experienced dog owners can find it challenging at times. Therefore, a Hokkaido should definitely be in experienced hands.
Loyal and Sensitive with a Sense of Justice
Not only experience but also a good deal of sensitivity is required in the training and education of a Hokkaido. The Japanese Ainu is an extremely sensitive dog that can become stubborn if it feels unjustly treated. Generally, it is very calm and composed but can become upset and defiant in certain situations. Such moments can occur, for example, if family children do not show it the necessary respect. A Hokkaido does not want to be treated as a cuddly toy or plaything. Once these rules are clear from the start, it usually gets along very well with children and acts as a loyal—albeit serious—guardian.
Reserved towards Strangers
Lively barking or overly enthusiastic tail wagging is not typical of this serious breed. It meets strangers with great reserve, giving an almost noble and dignified impression. However, it has a keen sense of observation and enough courage to act quickly if danger looms. The Hokkaido is anything but timid, and to prevent undesirable aggressive behaviour, its owner should make it clear from the beginning that they are in control. Dogs need to trust in the leadership of their pack leader, especially dominant ones like the Hokkaido.
Far from a Softie
Despite its dignified nature, the Hokkaido is a true outdoor dog that can withstand freezing temperatures or heavy snowfalls. It loves nature and enjoys working in all weathers. In general, the Hokkaido is extremely enduring and agile. Even long distances do not bother this sporty dog. If it gets very far away during a hunt, it can always find its way back thanks to its infallible sense of direction.
The Hokkaido is one of the more demanding breeds and needs a lot of exercise and activity.
History of the Hokkaido
The breed shares its name with Japan’s Hokkaido island, located north of the main island Honshu. The name “Ainu Inu” also hints at the breed’s origins. The first people to keep Hokkaidos were the Ainu, who settled on Hokkaido over 3,000 years ago. The isolated area, at about 1000 metres altitude, made life difficult for humans and dogs alike. The animals helped with hunting bears and large game and fishing. They would track and hold bears at bay until the hunter arrived. Bear hunting was not just for sustenance; for the Ainu, it was a ritualistic practice celebrating a bear cult. The brave dogs that confronted these large animals were highly revered.
Rare Natural Monument
The Hokkaido is one of the oldest dog breeds in Asia, part of Japan’s cultural heritage. In 1937, the Hokkaido was declared a “Natural Monument” and has since been recognised and protected as a breed.
Due to the remote regions of the island, the dogs retained their “pure blood” over centuries. Unlike the Akita Inu or Shiba Inu, which have been introduced to Europe, the Hokkaido remains a rare breed seldom seen outside its homeland.
Hokkaido Nutrition & Care
Besides good genetics, diet plays a significant role in the dog’s overall health. As descendants of wolves, dogs are carnivores, meaning they primarily eat meat, including the Hokkaido. This original breed particularly enjoys fish. In Japan, where it is traditionally used for fishing, the Hokkaido demonstrates skill and quick reflexes in catching salmon. However, this trait is not always welcomed, as the Hokkaido tends to eat its catch first and only shares when it is full.
Generally, the daily feeding amount should match the dog’s needs and weight. Although there are no weight guidelines in the breed standard, the body weight should always be proportional to its size. An athletic and powerful figure should always be visible in the Japanese dog. Can you feel your dog’s ribs through its dense fur, without much effort? If so, its weight is probably in a good range. On the other hand, if the fat layer over the ribs is so thick that you cannot feel the bones, your dog is likely overweight and needs to lose weight to prevent health issues. Conversely, if you can see the dog’s ribs from a distance, it is too thin.
Nutrition
The daily feeding amount should not be based solely on the dog’s weight. Age, health, and activity level also significantly influence its energy and nutrient needs. Typically, an adult Hokkaido’s daily feeding amount is about 300g of meat (or fish), 140g of vegetables, and approx. 100g of rice or noodles. This should be split into two meals per day. Avoid giving your dog food freely between these meals. Treats should be given sparingly, and their calorific value taken into account in the daily feeding amount. Fresh drinking water should always be available.
Care
A Hokkaido’s fur should be brushed gently about two to three times a week. During shedding periods, daily brushing is recommended to remove dead hair. Additionally, clean the ears and teeth about once or twice a week. Nails should be trimmed regularly to avoid injury. Bathing is rarely needed—firstly, it enjoys swimming in rivers or lakes; secondly, it is naturally clean; and thirdly, frequent bathing or dog shampoo can damage its skin’s protective barrier.
The Hokkaido is a true outdoor dog that can withstand freezing temperatures
Adopting a Hokkaido Dog
Where Can I Get a Genuine Hokkaido?
Interested in buying this rare Japanese breed? Be aware that finding a suitable breeder and waiting for a healthy puppy can take a long time. Often, getting a true Hokkaido might require travelling abroad. Additionally, there are few dog clubs in Europe that specialise in this breed to assist in finding breeders. However, there are enthusiasts in Denmark, the Netherlands, France, Estonia, Germany and Switzerland dedicated to breeding these exceptional dogs.
How Do I Recognise a Suitable Breeder?
If you find a breeder, resist the urge to “snap it up” immediately. Buying a dog, especially a Hokkaido, is not like buying a pair of shoes. Consider whether you are suited to owning this demanding hunting dog and whether the breeder is the right choice. Besides gut feeling, the facts must add up. How much experience does the breeder have? Do they breed according to FCI standards? How are the breeding dogs selected? Are the puppies vaccinated, and do they have the necessary “papers”? Does the pedigree prove the dogs are healthy and not inbred?
Genetic Health
In Europe, inbreeding among Hokkaido dogs is not uncommon due to the breed’s rarity, risking unwanted hereditary diseases. Checking the dog’s pedigree is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises. Apart from inbreeding issues, Hokkaido dogs are robust and resistant to typical canine diseases. Healthy dogs have a life expectancy of 9 to 15 years.
Are You Ready to Own a Hokkaido?
Most importantly, consider whether you can meet the dog’s needs more than finding the right diet and care. The Hokkaido is undoubtedly a demanding breed that won’t be satisfied with a small city apartment and one or two short walks. This Japanese breed needs a lot of exercise and stimulation. If not used for hunting, ensure plenty of alternatives. Long walks in nature, with short swims in rivers or lakes and varied, engaging tasks, are essential for a Hokkaido owner.
A dog like this does not belong in a city flat. The Hokkaido is best suited to a rural setting—ideally in the countryside or mountains with a large garden. This is just one of many requirements. Experience, free time, and a willingness to adapt your life fully to this charming but sometimes complicated dog are essential.
Fans of the Bearded Collie agree that those who aren't familiar with this dog breed simply have to get acquainted with it. And those who have experienced how a Bearded Collie bolts across meadows with its flowing fur, how it rolls around full of energy and joy and how it attentively and observantly takes into account its owners wishes become simply addicted to this original dog breed and its unique charm.
The Goldendoodle isn't a breed, but a pairing between Golden Retrievers and Medium or Standard Poodles. Marketed as a low-maintenance dog for allergy sufferers, this hybrid is enjoying increasing popularity amongst dog lovers, similar to the Labradoodle.
