🐾 Small · Japan

Japanese Terrier: Size, Weight & Temperament

The Japanese Terrier is a rare, small, elegant terrier from Japan with a friendly temperament and a pronounced hunting drive toward small animals.

Beginner-friendly
Japanese Terrier dog breed portrait
Photo: Paweł Gąsiorski · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male4,5–6,5 kg
Weight female4–6 kg
Shoulder height30–36 cm
Size classSmall (under 12 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 12 months
Life expectancy12–15 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginJapan
ClassificationFCI Group 3 – Terriers, Section 2 Small-sized Terriers
Temperament & character

The Japanese Terrier is a bright, affectionate companion dog that is cuddly with its family and initially reserved with strangers. True to its terrier nature, it retains a strong hunting drive toward mice and other small animals despite its generally friendly disposition.

Exercise & stimulation

Its small body needs moderate daily walks and playtime but also adapts well to apartment living. Its hunting drive should be channeled through controlled sniffing and search games.

Grooming

The short, smooth coat is extremely low-maintenance and needs only occasional wiping down. Because of its sensitivity to cold, a coat is advisable in winter at low temperatures.

Suitable for beginners?

The breed's size, friendliness, and low grooming needs make it well suited to first-time owners, though early socialization remains important to prevent typical terrier reserve toward strangers.

Health & common problems

The Japanese Terrier is considered a largely healthy, little-spread breed. As with many small breeds, patellar luxation and dental problems can occur.

Good with: apartment living, singles and families with older children

Is your Japanese Terrier at a healthy weight? Calculate the ideal weight and the right portion size for free in the Souldog app.

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.