The Japanese Hokkaido Ken is one of the most primitive breeds today. They are known for their loyalty, determination, and courage to their owner. They are confident dogs and are rarely intimidated by dogs or animals much larger than themselves. The Hokkaido retains much of its hunting instinct and will chase and hunt small and sometimes large animals, meaning that housing them with cats or small mammals may not be suitable if not socialised under controlled conditions. It is advised that they are not left unattended with cats or small mammals, even if they seem to be the best of friends, and that they are kept on a lead unless in an enclosed, safe, outdoor space.
The Hokkaido can be aloof with strangers and unknown dogs, so these unknowns must be introduced on the Hokkaido’s terms, meaning the stranger should wait for the Hokkaido to initiate contact, and body language should be read carefully. They dislike ‘rude’ canine and human behaviour and will often give a warning ‘woo’ or bark if a dog or human is unwanted in their personal space. If spooked, they may appear to have a flight or fight response. As a dog owner, you must recognise these behaviours as soon as possible and reduce them via positive reinforcement training.
They are very attached to their owners and will try to please them whenever possible. They are quick to learn and very intelligent. This makes training easy, but only if you recognise that the Hokkaido will ‘want something in it for him’ during the session. Keeping the Hokkaido engaged and keeping the training sessions interesting is critical so they don’t get bored and become stubborn. Training should be continued throughout the Hokkaido’s life, even if they seem to be fully ‘trained’ in these behaviours. It is essential to get your Hokkaido used to spending time on its own from a young age, as this will reduce the risk of it developing separation anxiety later in life; this can lead to a very stressful fear response from the dog, as well as unwanted destruction at home.
It is also crucial that you get your dog used to the vet practice. Hokkaido are known to hate the vets, and make it very well known to the practice and staff! Practice ‘examining’ your dog. Run your hands all over his body, around his face, in his mouth; gently touching his ears, and his feet. This is how a vet will conduct a clinical exam. A trip to the vet should not be scary or stressful for your dog, and it’ll make the experience much more pleasant for both your Hokkaido and the vet. Consider muzzle training, as dogs may bite in fearful situations, or when in extreme pain. This will help protect you, the staff, and your dog. Consider finding veterinary practices that operate under the Fear Free Pets scheme, or that employ veterinary professionals who have gone through Fear Free training. It is essential that you communicate with your vet practice about your and your animals’ expectations, as well as hearing what the vets expect from you, so all members involved can create plans for vet visits, and set your dog up for success. For more information on how to get your Hokkaido used to or tolerate the veterinary clinic, please feel free to message us as we have done lots of work on advocating for our dogs in the vets, and we work closely with our clinic to ensure our dogs can get the health care they need.
You can also find more information on Fear Free Pets here.
Ichiyo Kensha Hokkaido Ken 