Hokkaido Ken

A stylish, loyal, and ultra-resilient dog, perfect for adventurers who love nature and action.

🏞 Origins and vibes

The Hokkaido Ken descends from Japanese dogs that migrated with their humans in the 12th century to Hokkaido. Adopted by the Ainu, it was used for bear and big game hunting. It certainly has impressive endurance and instinct.

🐕 Dog profile

This medium-sized dog is a perfect mix of power and agility. It is built for action with well-developed musculature and quick, precise movements. It can be both a loyal companion and a formidable hunter.

🔍 Quick info

• Hypoallergenic? Nope

• Weight: 20-25 kg (males), 18-23 kg (females)

• Height: 48-52 cm (males), 45-49 cm (females)

• Life expectancy: 11-13 years

• Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day

❤️ Mood & compatibility

• Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Talkative (barking): ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

• Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Gets along well with...

• Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (kind but a bit rough)

• Animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (socialization is extremely important)

• Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (cautious but not hostile)

• Apartments: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (possible but complicated, it needs space)

The Hokkaido Ken is a dog that needs an active human, ready to provide it with intense exercise sessions and firm but kind training. It is much more comfortable in the countryside or in a place with a large garden rather than in an apartment.

🛠 Maintenance & Care

• Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

• Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐☆☆☆

• Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Care tips

• Its dense coat requires regular brushing (at least once a week, more during shedding season).

• An occasional bath to keep its coat clean.

• Regular ear checks to prevent infections.

• Good news: no need for professional grooming, so less overall maintenance.

💰 Budget

• Purchase price: €1,000 - €2,500

• Average annual cost: €450 - €650 (food, vet, accessories)