Hokkaido

Also called Hokkaido Inu, Hokkaido-ken, Ainu-ken, Ainu dog, Seta

Recognised breedFCI group 5Short profile

From Hokkaido, Japan, where the Ainu people kept these dogs for hunting.1 2

At a glance the quick version

Weight20 kg2

Height, male48.5 to 51.5 cm1

Height, female45.5 to 48.5 cm1

Sizemedium

Wikipedia gives an approximate weight of about 20 kg; the FCI standard sets no weight.

faithful

bold and alert

great stamina

1 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

double coat

A compact, muscular spitz with a harsh, straight outer coat over a soft, thick undercoat, small upright triangular ears and a well-furred tail carried over the back. It is built to shrug off heavy snow and deep cold.1 2

Colourssesamebrindleredblackblack and tanwhite1

Personality what they are like

Loyal and gentle with its family, very alert and brave, with sound judgement and remarkable endurance. It carries itself with a natural, unpretentious dignity.1 3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A tough, enduring hunting breed that enjoys long outings and active work.1

Home where they are happiest

Naturally suited to cold, snowy climates thanks to its dense double coat.1

Company who they like around

Devoted to its family; historically worked closely alongside its hunter.1

The story where it all began

The Hokkaido is thought to descend from medium-sized dogs brought to the island by settlers from Honshu around the 1140s. The Ainu relied on them to hunt bear and other game. The breed took the island's name when Japan declared it a natural monument in 1937.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Ainu hunters traditionally used these brave dogs to hunt bears.1
2
English naturalist Thomas W. Blakiston gave the breed the name 'Hokkaido' in 1869.2
3
Hokkaido dogs helped with rescue efforts after the 1902 Hakkōda Mountains disaster.2
4
The breed is very rarely seen outside Japan.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was originally called Ainu-ken after the indigenous Ainu people who kept them, but in 1937 it was designated a Natural Monument and officially renamed Hokkaido-inu after the northern Japanese island where it originated.4

Famous ones stars of the breed

Kai-kun Starred as 'Otōsan' in a long-running series of Japanese mobile phone commercials until his death in 2018.5
Kaito Son of Kai-kun, continued the role of 'Otōsan' in the mobile phone commercials after his father's death.5
Kaiki Son of Kai-kun, also continued the role of 'Otōsan' in the mobile phone commercials alongside his brother Kaito.5

Name ideas for your new friend

YukiAkiSoraHanaKumaRinTaroMochiFujiSakuraKaiNori

A day in the life told by a Hokkaido

The morning mist rolls over the hills, and I stand tall, breathing in the crisp air. My human calls, and I bound ahead, leading the way through the forest. I spot a deer, but I know my job is to watch, not chase. I circle back, checking on my human with a soft nudge. We walk for hours, my paws sure on the rocky path. At a clearing, I lie down, ears perked, guarding the moment. A bird sings, and I tilt my head, curious. When we return home, I greet the family with a gentle wag, then settle by the fire, my watchful eyes keeping the night safe.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 261, Group 5 (Spitz and primitive types), Section 5 Asian Spitz and related breeds; current standard dated 09.02.2017, country of origin Japan.1
AKC: Listed on the AKC website with a breed profile (Foundation Stock Service breed).3
Japanese government: Designated a natural monument in 1937.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Hokkaido. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Hokkaido, and at what times?

Feed your Hokkaido at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent meal times help digestion, but the best schedule depends on your dog's routine; ask your vet for a plan tailored to your Hokkaido.6

What should a Hokkaido eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A Hokkaido thrives on high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for the best diet and portion sizes.7

How often should I bathe a Hokkaido?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days, which is about every two and a half months. The ASPCA recommends at least once every three months, but you can bathe more often if your Hokkaido gets very dirty or has skin issues.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Hokkaido need brushing?

Brush your Hokkaido every three days, and daily during heavy shedding seasons to manage its thick double coat. This keeps the coat healthy and reduces loose fur around the house. Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Hokkaido's nails, and how often?

Trim your Hokkaido's nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Take small amounts off at a time and stop before the quick to avoid pain.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Hokkaido need?

Your Hokkaido needs daily exercise, including long walks and active play, as it is an enduring hunting breed. Aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity each day to keep it happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Hokkaido's teeth and ears?

Brush your Hokkaido's teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks for dirt or odor, and clean gently without inserting anything into the ear canal.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Hokkaido live?

The lifespan of a Hokkaido is not specified in our sources; please ask your vet or a good breeder for typical longevity information for this breed.

Is a Hokkaido good with children and other pets?

The Hokkaido is loyal and gentle with its family, making it a good companion for children when properly socialized. Its history of working closely with hunters suggests it can get along with other pets if introduced carefully; always supervise early interactions.1 3

Can a Hokkaido be left alone?

The Hokkaido is very devoted to its family and may not enjoy long periods alone. It is best to gradually accustom it to alone time and provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation before leaving; ask a trainer or vet for specific advice.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.