Find the Right Breed of Dog for You
Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource


Ainu Dog (Hokkaido)
Small Breed
The Ainu Dog is well-balanced, well-boned and sturdily built. Among the breeds talents are; hunting, guardian and protector, watchdog and above all, companion.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Japan
Weight
Approximately 20-30kg/45-65lbs (standards may vary)
Height
Males approximately 48.5-51.5cm/19-20¼ inches;
Females approximately 45.5-48.5cm/17¾-19 inches (standards may vary)
Coat
Harsh and straight coat
Markings
Sesame (red fawn hairs with black tips), brindle, red, black, black and tan, white. No markings.
Lifespan
Average, 11-13 years
The Ainu Dog is courageous and self-confident, intelligent, quickly trained and very obedient. This dog is extremely loyal and devoted to its owner, combining the role of companion and hunter very well.
Temperament
Ainu Dogs are courageous and self confident, very alert and suspicious. They are highly intelligent and quickly-trained, well-behaved and obedient in the home. Ainu Dogs are very loyal, affectionate and docile towards their masters and devoted to their families. A breed with endurance, they require sufficient daily exercise. They are good hunters as well as companion dogs. Consistent and firm training is required.
-
PoorChildrenGood
-
VeryCombativenessNot very
-
VeryDominanceNot very
-
Not veryFriendlinessGood
-
Not veryIndependenceVery
-
LoudNoiseQuiet
-
Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Ainu Dog is a magnificent large breed dog, majestic in appearance and talented in many areas. The Ainu Dog was originally bred as a guardian and hunter.
- Makes a wonderful companion
- Excels as a guardian and watchdog
- No trimming or stripping required
- Does well in most climates
- Regular grooming needed
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient daily exercise
- Not suited to apartment living
- Does best with acreage
- Requires daily physical activity and mental stimulation