JP Westies - where we are

We are almost half-way into 2012.

At the beginning of the year, I was anxious to find JP Westie's figure for 2011

by JKC (Japan Kennel Club).

Last year our life was severely affected by the big earthquake.

All dog shows were cancelled in Japan from March - June,

and the nation was not in a state to enjoy or breed dogs.

The above chart shows annual registration numbers with JKC for pure-bred dogs in Japan
and 2011 is by far the lowest.

Continued decline in registration numbers may be due to JP market saturation,

or less interest in pure-bred dogs,
or increase in adoption....?

Westie registrations have declined as well, but in a more sharp manner!

Westie, or terrier breeds are adored in Japan, 

but liking them does not mean owning one necessarily.

JP owners are not getting westies
maybe because there are fewer breeders recently?
or because it is not trendy any more and people prefer other breeds?

Breed Ranking

In the 90's, westie breed was ranking around 20th for popularity in Japan,
but it has steadily slipped and it is below 30th now.

This means even in Tokyo you do not run into westies often....

Angie today

'Am I becoming a rare breed in Japan?  I hope to see more westies!'