This breed was created by mating smooth-haired Fox Terriers, exported to Nagasaki from the Netherlands in the 17th century, to small-sized pointers or small-sized native dogs. Japanese Terriers were kept mainly as lap-dogs in ports such as Kobe and Yokohama.
The Japanese Terrier has a lively and cheerful character. Its planned breeding started around 1920, and it was not until about 1930 that its type became fixed.

The japanese terrier should appear small, compact and elegant with very short fur. The muzzle and skull should be the same length, with slight stop and dry lips. The ears are set high, rather small and thin, V-shaped. The neck is of medium length, powerful and dry. Short back with deep but rather thin chest and a good amount of tuck up. The legs have rather open angulation. The tail is short, and may be docked. The coat is short, thin and glossy.