Pet Wiki

Japanese Terrier

Also called Nihon Teria, Mikado Terrier, Oyuki Terrier, Kobe Terrier

A bright, upbeat little terrier with plenty of zip, equally happy playing or curling up with its people.

SizeSmall
Weight2.2 to 4.5 kg (5 to 10 lb)1
Height30 to 33 cm (12 to 13 in)23
CoatVery short, smooth, glossy coat
OriginJapan21
GroupTerriers (FCI group 3)
Recognised breedShort profile
lively and cheerful
quick and agile
affectionate lap companion
23

Personality what they are like

A bright, upbeat little terrier with plenty of zip, equally happy playing or curling up with its people.231

Coat and looks how to spot one

very short, smooth, glossy coat

The coat is remarkably short, around 2 mm, and lies smooth, dense and shiny. The body is compact and square, roughly as long as it is tall, with high-set ears that fold forward.231

Colourstricolour: black, tan and white head with white body carrying black spots or black or tan markings23

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Japanese Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Energetic and smart; it enjoys daily walks, games and mental challenges.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The ultra-short coat needs minimal care: a quick rub with a soft cloth or mitt keeps it shiny.2

Home where they are happiest

Adapts well to smaller homes as long as its daily need for activity is met.31

Company who they like around

Primarily a companion today and likes being near its family.3

The story where it all began

In the 17th century Dutch ships brought Smooth Fox Terriers to Nagasaki, where they were crossed with small pointers and native dogs. These little terriers became familiar in the port cities of Kobe and Yokohama, systematic breeding began around 1920, and the type was established around 1930.231

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    The FCI standard describes a coat only about 2 mm long.2

  2. 2

    Early examples seen on the streets of Kobe gave rise to the name Kobe Terrier.1

  3. 3

    The FCI lists its use simply as a toy dog.2

  4. 4

    One nickname, Oyuki, means snowy, a nod to its mostly white body.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was known by several names including 'Kobe Terriers' (after the city of Kobe), 'Oyuki Terriers', and 'Mikado Terriers', before becoming standardized as the Japanese Terrier.4

Name ideas for your new friend

SakuraKobeMochiYukiTaroSushiMikadoHanaRinSoraNoriAki

A day in the life told by a Japanese Terrier

I wake up to the smell of rice and a gentle pat on my head. After a quick stretch, I follow my human to the park, chasing leaves and greeting every friendly face. We play fetch with a squeaky ball, and I show off my best tricks for a treat. Back home, I curl up on the warm sofa, watching the sun move across the tatami. In the evening, we share a quiet moment on the porch, listening to the crickets. I wag my tail, knowing tomorrow will bring more adventures.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 259, Group 3 (Terriers), Section 2 (Small sized Terriers); current standard published 4 Apr 20162
Japan Kennel Club
Recognised 19301
UKC
Terrier Group; recognised 20063
AKC
Foundation Stock Service since 13 Oct 20201

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Japanese Terrier tip

Japanese Terriers are tiny and energetic, so choose small, low-calorie treats to avoid weight gain. Dental chews are a good choice because this breed is prone to dental disease.

Source: akc.org

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Japanese Terrier, and at what times?

Feed your adult Japanese Terrier at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet. Times can be consistent with your daily routine.5

What should a Japanese Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A balanced dog food is best for your Japanese Terrier. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a complete list.6

How often should I bathe a Japanese Terrier?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks. The ASPCA recommends at least every three months, but you can bathe more often if needed. Use a dog-safe shampoo.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Japanese Terrier need brushing?

Brush your Japanese Terrier weekly, as Pet Wiki suggests. A quick rub with a soft cloth or mitt also keeps the ultra-short coat shiny.7 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Japanese Terrier's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Japanese Terrier need?

Your Japanese Terrier needs daily walks and playtime. It's an energetic, smart little dog that also enjoys mental challenges. Adapts well to smaller homes as long as its daily activity is met.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Japanese Terrier's teeth and ears?

Brush your Japanese Terrier's teeth daily if possible, at least 2-3 times a week, using dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks, but never push anything into the ear canal. Ask your vet for proper techniques.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Japanese Terrier live?

Japanese Terriers often enter their senior years around age 10, but lifespan varies. For a more precise estimate, ask your vet or a good breeder.

Is a Japanese Terrier good with children and other pets?

Japanese Terriers are bright and affectionate with their family. Their compatibility with children and other pets can vary; early socialisation helps. Ask your breeder or vet for specific advice.

Can a Japanese Terrier be left alone?

This breed enjoys being near its family and may not do well if left alone for long periods. It's best to gradually accustom them to short absences. For specific guidance, ask your vet or a good breeder.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Smooth Fox TerrierToy Fox Terrier

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Wikipedia: Japanese Terrier en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, weight, JKC and AKC dates, history
  2. FCI Standard No. 259 Nihon Teria fci.beused for recognition, height, coat, colours, temperament, history
  3. UKC: Japanese Terrier ukcdogs.comused for UKC recognition, height, colours, history
  4. akc.org akc.org
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.