Japanese Terrier
Breed Profile
Height
8 - 13
Weight
6 - 10
Life Span
12 – 15
Health
health
Luxating Patella
What is it?:
Luxating Patella is a condition where the kneecap moves out of its grove and causes pain and discomfort.
Clinical signs
The clinical symptoms of this condition may include -
Stiffness in the leg
May see your doh skipping and jumping to slide the kneecap back in its place
The way of walking of the dog changes
There is discomfort or pain while walking
Treatment
The treatment for luxating patella depends on the severity of the medical condition. The treatment for luxating patella is:
Pain relief medications with help reduce the discomfort, pain and swelling
Physical therapy could be given to dogs, to strengthen their muscles and make sure the knee cap does not snap out of place.
A realignment surgery can be performed on the dog in severe cases where there is a lot of pain and movement of the dog is difficult.
health
Cataracts
What is it?
It is the same as found in humans and refer to opacity in the lens of the eye. They are usually caused by genetics but can also occur after a certain age due to some diseases. They can also lead to blindness
Clinical signs
Confusion or clumsiness, especially in new settings
A change of color to the pupil, usually from black to a blue-white or cream-white color
A reluctance to jump onto furniture or into the car
Redness to the white of the eye, or around the eyelids
Rubbing at and scratching the eyes
Squinting or repeated blinking
Treatment
There is no reversible treatment of the condition as it usually is inherited. The only option here would be to surgically remove the cataract. Regular prescribed eye drops may be needed in some cases if one is trying to avoid surgery.
Personality
Intelligent
It falls under the category of one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there
Independent
It has a mind of its own and is often seen taking decisions on its own
Active
Japanese Terrier is a very lively and active breed which has a very cheerful character
Lifetime Care
Coat
It has a short-haired smooth coat
Colors
Japanese Terrier comes in only 2 shades; black and white or tri-color
Hypoallergenic
No
Grooming
The short haired coat requires minimal grooming. A weekly brush with a soft-bristly brush and an occasional bath will take care of the body
Training
The exercise needs are moderate and the high intelligence helps in training. But the training needs to be started early as the independent nature can make it difficult later.
The Japanese Terrier is believed to be a descendant of the Fox Terrier. It was developed in the 17th century by mating a smooth fox terrier and small-sized pointers or small native Japanese dogs. They were primarily used as lap dogs which keep continued till the present day.
In the 1900s, in the Meiji Era, these dogs were named Kobe terriers due to their presence on that street. They were the first terrier-type dogs to be bred in Japan. "Oyuki Terriers" and "Mikado Terriers" are some other names by which the breed was referred. The breed even faced extinction in two instances: first during World War II, and then around 1948 when the Western breeds became more fashionable.
Japanese Terrier: Introduction to the Breed
As a sporting and versatile terrier, an eager-to-learn dog breed, it has great athleticism and inborn instincts.
Some of the notable and distinct physical characteristics of the Japanese Terrier include:
Short fur
Long, strong, and tapering neck
V-shaped, forward folding, thin ears
Deep chest
Long thighs
Tight, elastic padded, and hard-nailed feet
Plain white body with a black or tan head
Best suited for pet owners:
First-time owners
Sporty families
Confident, assertive and a bold pet parent
Owners who can spend enough time with the dog
Fenced living
Things to watch out for before deciding to own a Japanese Terrier
They need an outlet for their extreme energy and which is why can’t be left alone for a long time
They can be problematic for individuals with allergies because they shed year-round.
There are certain health conditions that can be costly as well as difficult to treat for these breeds
As it is a small breed, more attention and watch is needed to be kept on them for checking for potentially harmful conditions that might impact them
They also tend to bark a lot. So, you will need to keep them in control when friends or relatives, or strangers to the dog come over to the place.
What should a Japanese Terrier eat?
As a pet owner, your responsibility is high towards maintaining a good diet for your dog as it will decide whether the dog will live a healthy life or not. In the case of Japanese terriers, half to one and a half cups of vet-recommended, high-quality dry dog food in a day would do. 2 small meals should be preferred over 1 large meal. Since the dog is active in nature, he/she will need access to fresh water all the time.
Conclusion
Japanese terriers are loyal, affectionate, lively, active, and highly intelligent dogs which are very good for families, especially with children. With minimal grooming requirements and easy trainability, they tend to be a choice for a lot of pet owners in Japan. The only concern is, the breeder needs to be carefully selected and preferably from Japan if possible to help avoid unhealthy puppies.
Happy Mood and Health to your Doggo and lots of Love and Licks to you!
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