Mary Allen
In 1937 this breed was declared a “monument of nature”. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, education, and care of the dog breed Ainu Inu (Hokkaido) in the profile.
This breed is believed to have descended from medium-sized Japanese dogs that accompanied emigrants from Honshu (the main island of Japan) to Hokkaido in the Kamakura era (around 1140); at that time, the traffic between Hokkaido and Tohoku District developed very strongly. It is also called “Ainu-ken” because the Ainu, after the indigenous people of Hokkaido, bred these dogs to hunt bears and other game. The hardy nature of the Hokkaido enables it to endure freezing cold and heavy snowfall. He reacts according to the situation and is very resilient.
General Appearance
The Hokkaido is a medium-sized, evenly proportioned, powerfully built dog with a robust bone structure and a pronounced gender imprint. Muscles strongly developed and clean inline.
Behavior and temperament
Remarkably persistent and fast, of a natural character. His nature makes a “noble” impression, as he is rather reserved, but by no means shy. The Hokkaido is considered a pronounced one-person dog, i. H. as the leader of the pack, he only recognizes a person he is willing to follow, the family is faithfully guarded, other people are generally largely ignored. Hokkaido is often difficult to deal with of its own kind, especially with those of the same sex. You should also consider this before purchasing.
Need for employment and physical activity
Dogs of this breed are agile, but not at all nervous. If you don’t give them enough work, they look for something else – not always in the interests of the owner. He needs long walks in changing surroundings to keep discovering new things. Due to its independence, the upbringing places certain demands on the owner. The Hokkaido is not a beginner dog.
Upbringing
Like many very original breeds, which also have a pronounced hunting instinct, the Hokkaido needs careful training with patience and consistency. Positive reinforcement works much better than harshness. If Hokkaido feels treated unfairly, he withdraws inwardly or reacts stubbornly.
Maintenance
The dense coat should be brushed regularly and extensively.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
Because the breeding base is very small, any inbreeding could affect the breed.
Did you know?
In 1937 this breed was declared a “monument of nature”. Only then was it named after its area of origin.