Not to be confused with its smaller cousin the Shiba Inu, the Hokkaido were bred as family protectors and hunters on Japan’s northern most island for which they are named. Hokkaido, Shiba, Akita and other similar looking breeds are all Spitz types dogs, with thick fur coats, short pointy ears and a curly tail. Though not a large dog, Hokkaido Inu are said to be extremely loyal and protective of their human families, even known to attack brown bears if they pose a threat to human safety. The most popular Hokkaido today is the pure white Softbank mascot named Kai-kun.