We Will Find the Perfect
Japanese Dog for You
Bringing the Spirit of Japan to Your Home in Aotearoa
New Litter Arrived!
Our latest puppies are here and looking for their forever homes.
Bridging Japan and New Zealand
Kia Ora, I am Tylor Tamba, the founder of Nippon K9 NZ.
Living in New Zealand, I realised that many Kiwis love the loyalty and spirit of Japanese dogs like Shiba Inu and Akita. While we have a passionate community here, I saw an opportunity to build a direct bridge to Japan, bringing fresh bloodlines to Aotearoa.
I established Nippon K9 NZ to bring this vision to life. We partner directly with award-winning breeders in Japan to bring you healthy, heritage-verified puppies. We handle all the complex quarantine procedures and logistics, so you can focus on welcoming your new family member.
Let me help you find your perfect partner from Japan.
Tylor Tamba
Founder, Nippon K9 NZ
Guardians of the Lineage
At Nippon K9 NZ, our mission is to preserve the dignity of these ancient breeds while ensuring they find loving, prepared homes in New Zealand. We strictly refuse to work with puppy mills. Instead, we partner with dedicated breeders who honour the history and mental health of every dog.
Animal Welfare First
Physical and mental health above all.
Respect for Lineage
Honouring the pedigree managed by NIPPO.
No Mass Export
Individual care over quantity.
Full Compliance
Strictly following NZ MPI & Japanese Laws.
Owner Screening
Careful attention to matching dogs with suitable households.
The 6 Native Breeds
Japan is home to six indigenous breeds, which are designated by the Japanese government as protected species.*Note: The Japanese Tosa is strictly prohibited from importation into NZ.
Akita Inu
The Dignified National Treasure. Famous for Hachiko, symbol of loyalty. Large, powerful, and quiet.
Shiba Inu
The Global Icon. Smallest and oldest breed. Spirited, independent, and 'cat-like'.
Kai Ken
The Tiger Dog. Rare, athletic climbers from Mt. Fuji. Known for brindle coats.
Kishu Ken
Legend of the White Wolf. Noble hunters from Wakayama. Devoted to one family.
Shikoku Ken
The Japanese Wolfdog. Primal appearance, high endurance. For the active owner.
Hokkaido Ken
The Brave Explorer. The Ainu Dog of the North. Resilient against cold, strong family bonds.
Japanese Spirit, Kiwi Lifestyle
How do these ancient breeds fit into life in New Zealand? Understanding their needs is key to a harmonious life and helpful for choosing the breed that best fits your life style.
🌿 For the Outdoor Adventurer
Shikoku, Kishu, Hokkaido, and Kai Ken are natural climbers and hikers. They are perfect companions for tramping in the Waitakere Ranges or Southern Alps. The Akita breed is the largest (in size) of the six breeds, and because of this, they are better suited to the outdoors, as opposed to small-apartment-living.
🏙️ City & Suburban Living
Shiba Inu are also active but more suitable for indoor living due to their size. However, they are escape artists—secure fencing in your backyard is non-negotiable.
☀️ Climate Adaptation
Most Japanese breeds have double coats and adapt well to NZ's winters. However, care must be taken during hot summers; shade and hydration are key.
Navigating the World's Toughest Border
We handle the complex logistics so you can focus on preparing your home.
7-8 Weeks Before Export
Microchip implantation, quarantine facility booking, import permit application (MPI requires 30 working days), and travel crate preparation.
7-8 Weeks Before Export
Microchip implantation, quarantine facility booking, import permit application (MPI requires 30 working days), and travel crate preparation.
30 Days Before Export
Blood tests for heartworm and Leptospirosis. First treatments for external parasites (fleas/ticks) and internal parasites (nematodes/cestodes).
30 Days Before Export
Blood tests for heartworm and Leptospirosis. First treatments for external parasites (fleas/ticks) and internal parasites (nematodes/cestodes).
16 Days Before Export
Critical disease screening: Babesia gibsoni, Babesia canis (if applicable), and Brucella canis tests. Results must be negative.
16 Days Before Export
Critical disease screening: Babesia gibsoni, Babesia canis (if applicable), and Brucella canis tests. Results must be negative.
2-4 Days Before Export
Final veterinary examination, second parasite treatments, official certificates signed, and government seal placed on travel crate.
2-4 Days Before Export
Final veterinary examination, second parasite treatments, official certificates signed, and government seal placed on travel crate.
Day of Travel
Crate sealed with all documents: import permit, veterinary certificates, lab reports, and vaccination records. Dog must be 12+ weeks old.
Day of Travel
Crate sealed with all documents: import permit, veterinary certificates, lab reports, and vaccination records. Dog must be 12+ weeks old.
Arrival in NZ
Minimum 10 days quarantine at MPI-approved facility. Veterinary inspection at start and end. Register with local council after release.
Arrival in NZ
Minimum 10 days quarantine at MPI-approved facility. Veterinary inspection at start and end. Register with local council after release.
FAQ (Honest Talk)
Transparency is the foundation of our service.
Let's Start the
Conversation
Importing a family member is a big decision. Whether you are ready to proceed or just exploring the possibility, we are here to listen and guide you.