# Japanese Terrier

Also known as: Nihon Teria, Nippon Terrier, Kobe Terrier
- **Group:** Terrier (FCI group 3)
- **Size:** Small
- **Origin:** Japan
- **Height:** 20–33 cm
- **Weight:** 2.5–5 kg
- **Life expectancy:** 12–15 years
- **Temperament:** Lively, Cheerful, Alert, Affectionate, Intelligent
- **FCI standard:** No. 259

A small, sleek black-and-white terrier from Japan, shaped by Smooth Fox Terriers from Dutch ships and local dogs. Lively and cheerful, it is both a ratter and a devoted lapdog.

## Overview

The Japanese Terrier is a small, short-coated terrier from Japan, usually white with a black head and a scatter of small black spots. It is neat, slender and quick, with folded ears and an alert expression.

It was developed as a ratter and a companion, and it still combines both roles well. Lively, bright and loving, it suits owners who want a small dog with plenty of spirit.

## History

The breed took shape in the 17th century, when Smooth Fox Terriers arrived at Nagasaki on Dutch merchant ships and were mated with small pointers and native Japanese dogs. By the end of the Meiji era, similar dogs known as Kobe Terriers were common around port cities such as Kobe and Yokohama, where they lived as lapdogs.

Planned breeding only began around 1920, and the Japan Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1930. In 2020 the American Kennel Club accepted it into its Foundation Stock Service.

## Appearance

A small, slim and well-balanced dog standing roughly 20 to 33 cm at the shoulder. The head is typically black, the body mostly white with small black patches. The ears are set high and fold forward, and the tail may be docked in places where this is allowed.

The coat is short, fine and smooth, with a sleek, glossy look.

## Temperament

The FCI standard describes a lively and cheerful character, and that fits well. These dogs are quick, curious and affectionate with their family, and they are happiest when included in daily life.

Their terrier heritage shows in a keen interest in small moving things, so a secure garden and a good lead are wise. Intelligent and eager, they enjoy games and learn quickly with positive training.

## Care and exercise

Daily walks and play sessions keep this energetic little dog happy, along with some mental challenges such as puzzle toys and trick training. It adapts well to apartment life as long as its exercise needs are met.

The short coat needs only a weekly brush and an occasional bath. Keep ears clean and teeth brushed, and protect the thin coat from cold and wet weather.

## Health

Generally a healthy breed. Deafness and skin allergies are the issues most often mentioned, so regular veterinary check-ups and attentive grooming are sensible.

## Ratings (1 to 5)

- Energy: 4
- Exercise needs: 3
- Grooming: 1
- Shedding: 2
- Trainability: 3
- Barking: 3
- Good with children: 3
- Good with other dogs: 3

Page: https://techtools.cz/tools/dog-atlas/japanese-terrier
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_Terrier · https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q37976
Photo: Pleple2000 (CC BY-SA 3.0), https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Japanese_Terrier_22.04.2012_2pl.jpg
Profile written by an AI model from the sources above.