What makes the Japanese Terrier Unique?
Although Japanese Terrier is fairly active and energetic, he is also a lapdog, and not a pet who can be left alone in a yard. He often attaches himself very strongly to one person, and may bark and be belligerent toward anyone who appears to threaten his “favorite.” It’s best not talk loudly or shout at his “favorite”–but otherwise he is generally friendly and polite.
Breed Groups
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Is the Japanese Terrier Right For You?
Japanese Terriers are very loving dogs. They are cheerful and upbeat companions and love to play. They have a lot of very comical and funny personality traits. Our Norton is the family comedian. He’s a little guy with a big, big personality, and can put a smile on anyone’s face. Ours is wary of little kids and doesn’t like loud noises or skateboards.
JTs are built for speed and are very agile, fun to be around and fun to watch. They are very smart and learn things quickly, and need a lot of mental stimulation. Ours is a typical terrier that is curious about everything –looking into trees for squirrels– he has even tried to climb trees! They can be barky, too, and Norton figured out how to defeat the citronella bark collar. They need a lot of attention, and like to be petted and to sit and cuddle with their family members. They like other dogs and play well at the dog parks. They are hyper vigilant and guard their own territory like any terrier. Ours loves his toys and puts on a show with his, squeaking his toys in greeting when he hears us drive up. It’s his way of saying, “Yay, you’re home!”
Japanese Terriers need a guardian who can give lots of attention. Our Norton is a challenge and a dear sweet boy. We love him!
In 5 Words
- Active
- Affectionate
- Cheerful
- Friendly
- Vigilant
Characteristics
Learn About the Japanese Terrier
Description
General Description
They normally weigh less than 10 pounds, making them an ideal choice among small dogs that stay small. Unlike some breeds of small dogs, the Japanese Terrier is described as being undemanding. They love toys, and they are happy to entertain themselves when their owners are busy. They love to play and run, but they are equally thrilled to sit in your lap and watch TV. They are always eager to please their owners.
These short haired small dogs do shed. However, they require very minimal brushing and only a moderate amount of daily exercise. They are typically easy pets to own. These dogs will usually choose a favorite person in the house, and they are known to be deeply protective of their favorite. They are excellent with children who know how to properly handle small dogs.
Size
The Japanese Terrier is 8 to 13 inches tall (to shoulders) and weighs 5 to 9 pounds.
Coat
The hair of a Japanese Terrier short, smooth, dense and glossy. Its colour is tricolour with black, tan and white head; white with black spots, black markings or tan markings on body.
Short History of the Japanese Terrier
The Japanese Terrier is a very rare breed of dog, even in his native country. He is probably descended from Smooth Fox Terriers who arrived with Dutch sailors in the 17th century, and then interbred with local, Japanese dogs. Originally he was bred to hunt vermin, but over time was transformed into a lapdog and a companion pet to be carried. Planned breeding began in 1920, and in 1930 he was admitted to the Japanese Kennel Club. The breed nearly died out during World War II, but survived and can now be found in small numbers both inside and outside Japan. He was admitted to the United Kennel Club (England) in 2006.
Temperament
The Japanese Terrier has a Swift, Active, Vigilant, Affectionate, Cheerful, Lively but is a very loving companion.
Caring for Your Japanese Terrier
Grooming & Bathing
He only needs an occasional brushing. Some owners who dislike hair in the home will brush him more often to remove the loose hair before it falls out in the home.
Exercise & Training
Exercise These dogs need a daily walk or time to play in a dog park.
Japanese Terrier Picture Gallery
