Pet treatment in Japan is a mixed bag, with a growing love for pets as family members, evidenced by pet cafes and strong etiquette rules, but also significant issues like neglect in some puppy mills and entertainment venues, and ongoing challenges with overpopulation and abandonment, despite stronger laws and increased welfare consciousness. While many Japanese owners provide excellent care, concerns persist about conditions in some pet shops, the ethics of certain animal cafes (like owl cafes), and the lack of education leading to poor welfare for some animals.
So how did the countries perform in 2020? Overall, the three countries that the 2020 VACI ranked the highest (i.e. the least cruel) were India, the United Republic of Tanzania, and Kenya. Those ranked the lowest were the United States, Australia and Belarus.
The "Japan 5-minute rule" refers to extreme punctuality, meaning you should arrive 5-10 minutes before a scheduled time, as being exactly on time is considered late, demonstrating respect and reliability, a concept sometimes called "5-minute prior action" (５分前行動). It highlights Japanese culture's emphasis on preparedness, where trains are so precise that delays over 5 minutes get official notes, making being early a crucial part of business and social etiquette.
While Japan has long had dogs, the way people care for them has changed dramatically in recent decades. Once seen primarily as outdoor workers or guards, dogs today are treated more like family, joining their owners at cafés, celebrating birthdays with custom cakes and even receiving blessings at shrines.
Overall, Switzerland comes to the top and followed by countries like Norway, Austria, and Sweden. Countries like Canada, Australia, and the USA are still trailing behind EU countries. This is probably because EU consumers are more aware of animal welfare compared to Canada, Australia, and the USA.
Lithuania Leads the Pack
According to research by Pet Insurance Deals, Lithuania tops the list with 30,034 dogs per 100,000 residents. That's nearly one in three Lithuanians owning a dog, an impressive rate for a country with fewer than one million dogs total.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, outlining three phases: 3 Days (decompression, feeling overwhelmed/scared), 3 Weeks (starting to settle in, learning routine, personality emerges), and 3 Months (feeling secure, bonded, and truly at home). It helps new owners manage expectations and be patient as their rescue dog transitions, emphasizing calm energy, routine, and space in the early days to build trust.
Yes, $5,000 is generally more than enough for a single person for a week in Japan, even covering flights from North America/Europe, allowing for comfortable mid-range travel with nice meals and experiences, but it might be tight for a couple or if you're aiming for extreme luxury or extensive shopping; budget travelers can do it for much less, while luxury travelers could easily spend more. Your biggest variables will be your flight cost, accommodation choices (business hotels, ryokans, or hostels), and dining habits (convenience stores vs. high-end sushi).
US has highest dog population globally, followed by Brazil and China, reflecting diverse cultural attitudes and government policies on canine care. Globally, dog populations vary widely. India, with an estimated 1.53 crore stray dogs, is addressing a significant canine population issue.
Japan, the land of the rising sun, is a pet-friendly country that welcomes dogs and cats from all over the world. Bringing your pet to Japan is a complex process since Japan is a rabies-free country. If you are planning on moving with your pet to Japan, the guide below will help you facilitate the process.
The Japanese 80% rule, called Hara Hachi Bu (腹八分), is a Confucian teaching to stop eating when you're about 80% full, not stuffed, promoting mindful eating, moderation, and longevity, common in Okinawa, a region with many centenarians, helping to prevent overeating and support healthy digestion by allowing the brain time to register fullness.
Japanese tend not to eat while walking along or standing around on the street. However, it is acceptable to drink while standing aside vending machines, which are ubiquitous in Japan. Eating and drinking on local trains is also frowned upon, but not long distance express trains such as the Shinkansen bullet train.
The "3 Date Rule" in Japan refers to the cultural tendency to make a formal love confession (kokuhaku) on or around the third date, marking the transition from casual dating to an official couple, often after building trust with lighter activities like meals or walks, and it's considered a crucial step for clarifying relationship status before deeper intimacy, though it's a guideline, not a strict law.
It is estimated that Australia hosts 66 venomous species, ranking beneath countries such as Brazil (with 79 species) and Mexico (with 80).
WHAT IS THE FRIENDLIEST ANIMAL IN THE WORLD? Determining the friendliest animal is subjective and depends on individual experiences. However, some contenders for the title include dolphins, manatees, and capybaras. These animals are known for their gentle nature and positive interactions with humans.
The Netherlands has become the first country in the world to effectively eliminate stray dogs, ensuring that every dog has a home. This milestone was achieved through a combination of strict animal welfare laws, nationwide spaying and neutering programs, and strong public education around responsible pet ownership.
In Islamic culture, dogs are perceived as 'ritually impure'. Apparently, the Prophet Muhammad once said that dogs may only be kept for acceptable reasons, such as farming, hunting or herding.
Key Findings
For a 2-week trip to Japan from Australia, expect to spend around AUD $4,000 to $7,000+ per person, including flights, with budget travel closer to the lower end (under $100 AUD/day) and mid-range/luxury (over $100-$250 AUD/day) pushing costs higher, depending on accommodation, dining, activities, and transport choices. A comfortable mid-range budget might target $3,800–$4,800 for all-inclusive, while just daily spending (food, local transit) could be $100–$150 AUD ($12,000–$18,000 JPY) per day.
The cheapest months to visit Japan are typically January and February, after the New Year's rush and before spring, offering lower flight and hotel prices, though it's cold. Other budget-friendly times include the June-July rainy season (expect humidity) and sometimes late May or September, while you should avoid the very expensive cherry blossom (late March-April), Golden Week (late April-early May), and Obon (mid-August) periods for savings.
Yes, $100 a day (around ¥15,000 at current rates) is generally enough for a budget to mid-range traveler in Japan for food, local transport, and activities, especially if you stay in hostels/budget hotels, eat at convenience stores/local eateries, and limit expensive tours, but it can be tight for luxury experiences or significant shopping, requiring careful planning.
The most commonly surrendered dog type is the "pit bull type" (including mixes), often due to negative stereotypes, breed-specific legislation, and high energy levels, followed by other popular breeds like German Shepherds, Huskies, and Labrador Retrievers that may not fit owner lifestyles. Breeds like Staffordshire Bull Terriers (especially mixes) also top surrender lists in some regions like Australia.
The seven second rule. Put the back of your hand on the pavement. If you cannot hold it for seven seconds, it is too hot to walk for your dogs. This rule also applies to dogs riding in the bed of a pickup truck.
Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can't keep it there for five seconds, it's too hot to walk your dog. If you didn't know about this rule, chances are your friends don't, either.