Japanese Terrier
Temperament:
The Japanese Terrier, also called Nippon Terrier, is a bright and funny contemporary. From the nature, he is very similar to the Jack Russell Terrier. Despite the external resemblance, however, he descends from completely different breeds. As a playful and intelligent dog, he is suitable not only for singles. He also makes a loyal companion as a family dog. Sporty seniors will also have a lot of fun with him.
Characteristics
As a breed it was recognized in 1964 and assigned by the FCI to group 3. The coloration is quite strictly defined to black, tan and white. The head is color demarcated with black or black-tan. The body is often completely white or white with black and/or tan patches.
The Japanese Terrier is very eager to please you. He is inquisitive, eager to learn and wants one thing above all - your attention! On the other hand, he is also very cuddly and the perfect lap dog! He is often fixated on one person in the household, but is only too happy to enjoy the attention of all.
He learns commands very quickly. He wants to be constantly challenged and enjoys new tasks. A dog school would be recommended, but not an absolute must. He is best suited as a retriever. Hours of exercise are not necessary, but he needs to be kept busy. With learning games, agility exercises or treadmill training he can be quickly inspired.
He gets along with conspecifics and with other small animals, such as cats. Since he was bred as a lap dog, his hunting instinct is hardly present. Cuddling with his owner is all the more important to him. His affection makes him a popular companion. His curiosity and openness, however, also let him cross borders. If you let him, he will sleep under your blanket and lovingly claim his place.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
The right food is extremely important to avoid nutritional diseases. It is important to provide a balanced diet adapted to your pet. The Japanese Terrier has its own nutritional requirements due to its active nature. He is very agile, so attention should be paid to a sufficient energy supply.
High-quality complete feeds are precisely tailored to your dog's nutritional requirements. These ensure a supply of all the necessary nutrients. High-quality ready-made food has the advantage that no feed additives are needed.
Terriers are often prone to allergies based on grains containing gluten. In this case, make sure that the diet includes other sources of carbohydrates. Rice or potatoes are good alternatives in this case. Food intolerance can lead to skin rash, inflammation and digestive problems.
It is recommended to feed your terrier several times a day, in small portions. After each feeding, a digestive break should be ensured. Before planned sports activities, you should refrain from feeding.
Japanese Terrier Care
Your Japanese Terrier's coat is extremely low maintenance, being only about 2 inches long. He does not shed much, but you will enjoy using a silicone glove to remove loose hair. Dandruff can also be removed this way and the blood circulation of the skin is stimulated.
Your terrier's hair does not grow very thick. Therefore, it is recommended to put a coat on him during the cold months. During longer stays outdoors, the belly and nose must be protected with suntan lotion.
When it comes to dental care, you should definitely make sure not to feed sugary foods. These damage the teeth, which in turn can lead to severe digestive problems.
Suitable accessories
Especially your pelt-nose likes to play with balls and ropes, because he likes to fetch. He also likes dummies and toys that can be filled with food. Since the Japanese Terrier can be kept well even in small apartments, brain games for dogs are a good choice.
The Japanese Terrier has very well developed muscles, but its bone structure is rather fine. Therefore, it is recommended to use a dog harness instead of a collar. Should he be left alone at home for some time, chewing bones of an appropriate size can be used as toys.
Origin & History
In Europe, the Japanese Terrier is rarely represented. Nevertheless, he enjoys, because of his cheerful nature, increasing popularity. Its population was severely decimated during the 2nd World War, but today it is considered secure.
It is believed that Shorthair Fox Terriers arrived in Japan in the 17th century, on merchant ships from Holland. There they were crossed with native pointing dogs. The Japanese Terrier was bred specifically as a lap dog, but also served to catch mice.
A small, black dog named "Kuro" from the Noda district, is considered the father of today's Japanese Terrier. He in turn resulted from a mating of English Toy Terrier and Toy Bull Terrier. A very short-haired Kobe Terrier bitch was mated with "Kuro" and the puppies became known as "Japan Terriers".
