10 things to know before getting a Hokkaido dog

The Hokkaido dog is a Spitz-type worker dog that emerged from the island of Hokkaido, Japan. Experts say the Hokkaido dog is the oldest and most primitive Japanese purebred dog breed. Ainu-ken, Seta, Dō-ken, and Ainu dog are the names given to the Hokkaido breed. In 1869, British biologist Thomas Blankiston found the Hokkaido dog in Japan and gave its current name. Japan designated this breed as a living natural monument in 1937, making them legally protected. This article will discuss everything you need to know before getting a Hokkaido puppy. The puppy’s cute and fluffy looks can make you want to take it home already, but taking home a puppy without knowing what to expect and how to take care of it can be difficult for you and the dog. So read on, pawplease!

1. Hokkaido puppies are intelligent, alert , and loyal.

Their intelligence, alertness, and devotion to their families make them excellent pets. The Hokkaido is a canine hero known for his tenacity and grace under pressure. Despiteits calm demeanor, it's always on the alert and willing to take risks.

If properly socialized and trained from an early age, the Hokkaido the Hokkaido becomes a loving and devoted member of the family. If you give them a task, you can expect them to do a fantastic job.

Hokkaido breed dogs are exceptionally clever and will follow commands from their owners, making them easy to train. Accurate judgment and endurance are also evident in its demeanor. Originally, they are trained as hunting companions by the Japanese.

Before, they are taught to assist in search and rescue activities due to their intelligence, although they are usually kept as household pets nowadays.

Hokkaidos bark from time to time because they are so alert and aware of their surroundings. However, when they are joyful or enthusiastic, they will also howl.

2. The Hokkaido is a sturdy, medium-sized dog.

Because they are a medium-sized breed, these lovely canines are well-suited to small and mid-sized households. However, they also want a house with an outdoor space where they can run around and play.

Hokkaidos can live in any kind of home, from a single person to a huge extended family. And as long as they are socialized appropriately at an early age, adults and puppies can get along with children.

3. Hokkaido dogs are pretty easy to manage.

The natural oils in their skin and coat keep them dry and clean despite bad weather. Brushing is all that is needed to maintain their coat healthy and free of dead hair. No trimming or shaving is required or advised.

To prevent their nails from overgrowing and splitting, they should be clipped regularly. Brushing their teeth on a regular basis is a wise idea too.

Monitor your Hokkaido often to ensure they aren't chewing on something dangerous. Toys that are damaged or contain little fragments that might be eaten should be thrown away immediately.

4. The Hokkaido breed has a thick coat.

These dogs have a thicker, more luxurious coat than most of the Japanese varieties. Remove dead hair and avoid matting by brushing it out once or twice a week. During the time when they are shedding, brushing should be done more often.

On average, Hokkaido's undercoat sheds about twice a year. During this time, be sure to wash the hair and brush it frequently to eliminate any dead hair. Hokkaidos can survive cold conditions thanks to their thick coats.

5. Hokkaido is a very active breed.

Active families looking to spend a lot of their time outside are the ideal fit for this type of dog. As with all working dogs, it's nice to give them something to do. Hokkaido dogs do well in performance events that require speed, strength, and agility. These dogs love a game of catch and tug.

Hokkaido might get bored, nervous, and restless in your house if you don't provide him with enough physical and mental activity. If you intend to let the Hokkaido run free in your backyard, consider installing a higher fence because they are high jumpers.

For everyday walks, a well-fitted collar or harness and a firm leash are advised. Behavioral issues with your dog can be prevented by getting enough mental and physical activity.

It's not uncommon for Hokkaido to require daily mental and physical stimulation because they are working and hunting dogs. Aside from getting bored, they become more prone to problems like pica, excessive drinking, and anxiety if they don't have it.

Ensure your dog gets at least one hour of high-impact physical activity each day and regular training in new skills. In addition, long-lasting chews and food puzzles, as well as other hobbies, are encouraged.

6. Hokkaido dogs need a high-quality, balanced diet.

As an energetic breed, the Hokkaido need a well-balanced diet rich in excellent proteins, fat, and complex carbs. What you feed your dog is up to you, but working with your vet and breeder will be the finest way to figure out how often it should eat as a puppy and what it should eat as an adult to live longer.

With a healthy diet, Hokkaido will have thick, lustrous coats and pearly white teeth. Make sure your dog always has access to safe drinking water.

A medium-sized dog with medium energy needs a special Hokkaido diet. If you don't feed your Hokkaido on a regular schedule and don't remove food from the house during the day, he'll put on weight, just like most dogs. Treats should also be limited during the day.

Although the Hokkaido dog breed is typically reasonably healthy, few may be predisposed to inherited disorders. That is why proper care and frequent veterinarian visits are essential.

As with any dog, you should keep your Hokkaido routine veterinarian exams up to date to spot any health issues early. Your veterinarian can assist you in developing a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.

7. Hokkaido comes in different colors.

The primary colors of the Hokkaido breed are black, red, black & tan, white, brindle, and sesame.

8. Hokkaido dogs do not enjoy taking baths.

This dog breeds hate taking a bath. Due to their density, it takes a long time for their coat to dry. Baths are generally recommended a few times a year to prevent issues.

There is a soft undercoat and thick, straight topcoat in the Hokkaido dog's double coat. They are not hypoallergenic because of their coats. The double coating makes brushing them harder, and it's recommended that you do it at least once a day to keep them clean.

9. Hokkaido is not great with smaller animals.

When it comes to other pets, smaller animals like cats, hamsters, birds, and guinea pigs should be kept away from them. Hokkaido dogs are born hunters, and it's in their nature.

If you want your Hokkaido to get along with other dogs, it's best to start socializing with them at a young age. They have a squat and prowl style that some can mistake for hostility because of their temperament, but it's just the way they play.

10. Hokkaido tends to become too attached to a single person.

Because of this, they are likely to feel anxious when that person isn't there. Keep everybody in your family engaged in your Hokkaido's daily activities in order to avoid this problem.

If they appear to have a strong relationship with one individual, have that person take a limited part in feeding and exercising for a short while. On their walks, introduce them to other nice and friendly individuals.

If you're thinking of getting a puppy, don't take it lightly. A respectable breeder can help you choose the appropriate dog for you. Make an effort to meet the pup’s parents.

When you meet the puppy's parents, you'll better understand what to expect from your new pet. In order to ensure that the parents are healthy and free of breed-specific illnesses, ask the breeder if they have been tested.

As for Hokkaido pups, they must be adequately socialized to ensure that they grow up to be happy dogs. You should find out if the pups have been exposed to humans and other dogs, and if so, whether or not they are comfortable in a home setting. You should verify that the puppy has been vaccinated so you'll be prepared for his subsequent vaccinations.

If your think this dog is fit for you, remember that they are a breed of brilliant dogs. If you don't give them enough to do, they will get bored and nervous, so make sure you give them both physical and mental exercises. They need to be trained well at a young age so that they can work well with children and other animals.

Enjoy your new best friend!