Japanese Dogs

This book, presented in full color with a strong focus on visuals, is a comprehensive resource that explores the authentic form and nature of Japanese dogs. For anyone interested in Japanese dogs, it serves as a rare and invaluable collection of materials.

Shiba Inu, Hokkaido Inu, Akita Inu, Kishu Inu, Shikoku Inu, Kai Ken, Ryukyu Inu, and other breeds native to Japan were originally preserved as hunting dogs. In pursuit of their true essence, the book documents visits to their respective regions of origin and includes abundant materials on dogs that were prominent at the time, making it a highly valuable reference.

Japanese native breeds, including Shiba Inu (such as Shinshu Shiba and Mino Shiba), Hokkaido Inu, Akita Inu, Kai Ken, Shikoku Inu, Kishu Inu, and Ryukyu Inu, have a history of preservation efforts dating back to pre-war times, when organizations were established to protect these dogs from crossbreeding with Western breeds introduced during the Meiji era. These efforts continue today. However, while these dogs were originally bred as versatile hunting dogs with strict standards for temperament, abilities, and physical form, they are now often raised indoors as family pets. As a result, few people truly understand what these breeds originally represented.

To address this, the book provides a detailed exploration of the characteristics and standards of Japanese dogs through field research in their homelands, accompanied by photographs of prominent Japanese dogs from the past. Additionally, it delves into the roots of Japanese dogs through DNA analysis, revealing them as one of the most primitive dog types. This is complemented by information on ancient dogs like the Jomon and Yayoi dogs. The book also introduces key figures who played significant roles in preserving Japanese dogs, such as those who made Hachiko famous, as well as historical accounts like those of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the “dog shogun” of the Edo period. These topics and more are presented in column-style segments throughout the book.

– Local dogs across Japan
– Where did Japanese dogs come from?
– Pre-Japanese dogs before the establishment of Japanese breeds

● San’in Shiba Inu: Dogs remaining in mountain villages…
● Mino Shiba Inu: Fiery red dogs of the hunting fields…
● Shinshu Shiba Inu: The nameless mountain dogs that were always there / The story of “Chu-Gou”…
● The savior of Japanese dogs: Hiroyoshi Saito
● Kai Ken: The lineage of tiger-striped dogs protected by the mountains…
● Shikoku Inu: The wildness of the Tosa hunting dogs safeguarded by hidden regions / The “Terakawa Goudan” literature recounting mountain life with dogs…
● Kishu Inu: Legends of Kishu dogs—the divine dogs who guided Kukai / Sacred sites tied to guide dogs…
● Hokkaido Inu: Myths of ancestral dogs conveying the bond between humans and dogs / Brave hunters who lived alongside the Ainu…
● Akita Inu: The history of Akita dogs—seeking the lost image of local dogs…
● The story of Hachiko
● Sakhalin dogs: Recollections of Sakhalin dogs / Visiting the hometown of Taro and Jiro in Wakkanai…
● Ryukyu Inu: How did dogs live on the islands of Ryukyu? / Characteristics of Ryukyu dogs…
● Dogs on pilgrimages to Ise Shrine: Stories of dogs making the Ise pilgrimage that remain to this day…
● Shogun Tsunayoshi and Edo’s dogs: Interview with Hinako Sugiura—What was life like for dogs in Edo?