The Ainu dog (also referred to as Hokkaido-Ken) is a medium-sized dog created by the Ainu tribe from Japan (indigenous people of Hokkaido) about three centuries ago. It is a type of Japanese Spitz that is hardly found outside Japan, where it is popular as a guard dog, hunting dog, and pet. The Ainu breed tolerates heavy snowfalls and freezing temperatures. This dog can also quickly move across rough terrains.

Fun Facts About Ainu Dog

• Ainu dogs are strong, loyal, and dedicated pets and are highly devoted to their owners—they can be used as lifelong companions.
• Ainu dogs have stiff, double coats, which can be gray, white, red and dark or light brown.
• Ainu dogs are not suitable for apartments and families with small children and other pets due to their active nature. They need long walks daily to keep fit.
• Ainu dogs can survive between 12 and 14 years
• Ainu dogs can grow between 18 and 22 inches in height and weigh between 45 and 65 pounds. Females are slightly smaller than males.
• Ainu dogs were created to help hunt deer, salmon, and bears and protect humans from large animals.
• Ainu dogs are still used for hunting in Japan and helping control the population of wild boars and bears.
• Ainu dogs possess an innate sense of direction, which makes them find their way to return to their owners even from distant locations.
• Ainu dogs can also be trained to detect scents and pull sleds.
• Ainu dogs are excellent guard dogs due to their alertness, great stamina and strength. 
• Ainu dogs are clean pets having no distinguishable odor. Although they have thick coats, their shedding is light and can be easily managed by brushing regularly