Appearance: A muscular, heavy-boned spitz-type dog, standing 24-28 inches tall. Features a dense double coat (various colors including white), a broad head, a full curled tail, erect ears, and dark, alert eyes.

Traits & Characteristics: Known for dignity, courage, and loyalty. Venerated in Japan as family protectors. Quiet, fastidious, wary of strangers, and often intolerant of other animals, but affectionate with family. Independent and protective.

Colors: Black, Brown Brindle, Brown with Black Overlay, Fawn, Fawn with Black Overlay, Red, Red with Black Overlay, Silver with Black Overlay, White, Black Brindle, Black with Brown Undercoat, Black with Fawn Undercoat, Black with Red Undercoat, Black with Silver Undercoat, Brown, Fawn Brindle, Red Brindle, Silver, Silver Brindle, White with Red Shading

Origins: Ancient Japanese lineage.