I don’t recall seeing many dogs in Japan. Do many people have them?

A puppy mill like in the U.S.? Is animal cruelty as bad in Japan as it is here?

Rich people own dogs because they are extremely expensive to purchase! At this place, there were pups for about $2,000 each.

I don’t think owners are cruel, but I’ve little doubt that some breeders cut corners. The photos of the dogs on the sign outside this shop made me sad. None of the puppies looked healthy or old enough to be sold.

The dog shop closer to my house has healthy-looking puppies for about the same price. So I don’t think that all dog shops are bringing in pups from mills.

A friend bought a puppy last year and for the first week she kept him in a special box purchased from the pet store. It had one small “bedroom” and another room for the wee-mat etc. The brand name on the box was “wan-LDK” (hint for people who don’t live in Japan - a 1LDK is a one bedroom apartment with a lounge, dining and kitchen.) I thought it was such a cute idea for a new puppy.. but then I am easily amused..

When I was in Japan, I saw very few dogs , none running loose, and those who had owners were on leashes. I also saw small breed puppies for sale at Pet stores in Kobe, and the cubicles they were displayed in were small, and sparse. I felt badly for these little dogs, since many wlll never be normal emotionally after being kept in these conditions. They were also quite expensive as has already been mentioned, which is another detriment toward their being adopted.