Other Names
Ainu Inu, Hokkaido Dog

Origin
Japan
Bred by indigenous people of Hokkaido, to hunt bears and deer.. The Ainu was designated a natural monument by the Japanese in 1937

Use Today
Companion

Life Expectancy
This breed can live as long as 11-13 years of age

Weight & Height
45-65 Pounds & 18-22 Inches

Known Health Problems
None Known

Physical Description
Medium size dog that has small, triangular dark brown eyes, a black nose and small erect ears. They sometimes can have spots on the tongue. The chest is wide and deep and the tail is curled over the back.

Temperament
Alert & stubborn dog.. Used primarily as a compaion and watchdog in Japan, they are a very vocal dog. They can have aggressive tendancies with other dogs. The Ainu Dog is rarely seen outside of its homeland of Japan.

Training
Difficult to train due to its being stubborn.

Living Conditions
Not an apartment dog.

Grooming
Moderate, Brush and comb daily

Exercise
Moderate exercise needs.

Coat Texture
Outercoat is harsh & Straight and the undercoat is soft and dense

Coat Colors
Brindle, Black, Red, Black/Tan, White or Sesame, Gray

Puppies
? pups per litter

Recognition
Continental Kennel Club
American Pet Registry
Fédération Cynologique Internationale
National Kennel Club