The Ainu Dog is a courageous pet. Here is your informative A-list of Ainu Dog. The Ainu Dog is also known as Hokkaido Dog, Ainu Ken or Hokkaido Inu. Their nickname includes Kyushu or Ochi. This Ainu Dog breed was originated from Japan. The six Japanese native breeds are Akita Inu, Hokkaido Inu, Kai Inu, Kishu Inu, Tosa Inu and Shiba Inu. Ainu dogs were descended from medium-sized Japanese dogs which followed migrants from Honshu to Hokkaido during Kamakura period. They were named as Ainu Dog by the English zoologist Thomas W. Blankisto in 1869. The word Ainu means human. The word Ken and Inu means dog. They are one of the oldest Japanese Spitz breed. They were bred for big game hunting, sled dog or watch dog. Today, Ainu Dogs are mainly found in Japan and they are also known as national breed in Japan.
Facts about Ainu Dog
- Temperament – The Ainu Dog is determined, docile, fearless, intelligent, loving, loyal, obedient and well-behaved. They are devoted to their family and they can get along well with children if they are raised with them from puppyhood. Do not mix them with other pets. Ainu Dogs are able to fight against Hokkaido brown bear. They can withstand with cold and heavy snowfalls. This dog breed needs a confident and firm dog owner. Early socialization and obedience training is recommended for Ainu puppies; they are easy to train.
- Appearance – The Ainu Dog has a well-boned, muscular and sturdy body. They have a square head and they come with a pair of small dark eyes which set triangularly. The erect ears are small. They have a black nose and the muzzle is in medium length. Most Ainu Dogs have black spots on their tongue, just same as Chow Chow and Shar Pei. Their healthy teeth are close in a scissors bite or level bite. They have a muscular short neck. The chest is deep. The front legs are straight whereas the hind legs are moderately bent at Stifle. They have a large tail which carried over back. The Ainu Dog has a double coat. The outer coat is harsh and straight whereas the under coat is dense and soft.
Here are some Ainu Dog pictures
Ainu Dog Breed Information
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 46 – 56 cm (male and female) |
| Weight | 20– 30kg (male and female) |
| Colour | Brindle, brown, red, sesame, wolf gray or white |
| Group | Northern |
| Life Span | 11 – 13 years |
| Litter Size | Average 5 – 7 puppies |
| Exercise Ability | Daily long walk is needed |
| Grooming Requirements | Weekly brush is needed. This dog breed is a light shedder |
| Environment | Large fenced yard |
| Barking | Average |
| Recognition | CKC, APRI, DRA, NKC, ACR, FCI |
The Ainu Dog is a healthy dog breed.
If you are interested in this dog breed, you may adopt Ainu Dog from Ainu Dog rescue or look for Ainu Puppies for sale from Ainu Dog breeders.