There have been suggestions in the past that Japan’s falling birth rate and the increase in pets are connected. The growing legion of little dogs, it is said, are more than merely companions, they are child substitutes.
Now how true this is it’s hard to say, but there’s no denying that these pooches are generally pampered way more than your average pet. They are continually cooed over, and clothing is practically compulsory, ranging from colourful winter woolies to rather more stuffy school uniforms. The odd one or two even wear wigs.
And as for walkies, well, that could tire the poor tyke out. Much better for master to take care of that.
[Gm] says
Sometimes I wonder what the dog would feel when it meets the other dogs :D…
Lee says
I think they compare clothing labels!
James says
Chestburster? Maybe I’ve been here too long but I’m upset that the dog’s shirt does not match the masters. His wife would never let that happen.
Lee says
That’s funny! No wonder the dog looks so miserable then. Clearly the shame of such a shocking fashion faux pas.
Lizzy says
I love how proud he is of himself!
Lee says
That’s very true. He really was one of the happiest people I’ve seen.
winnie says
His smile is priceless!!
He must be very happy when you took his picture! 🙂
But the dog seem bored as it’s maybe thinking, ” Oh dear, I am not wearing my best outfit today!”
Lee says
He was just generally very happy Winnie. I’d seen him from quite a distance away, and he was sporting that lovely smile the whole time.
Jim says
Looks like he performed seppoochieku on himself.
Lee says
Now that is a pun, although I can’t quite decide whether it’s a good one or just plain terrierable.
phil says
Jim’s comment made me paws for thought
Lee says
This has just gone to the dogs…
Cedric says
Hey Look! this dog has a human in his backpack 🙂
Hans ter Horst says
I’ve seen the people in Tokyo walk with their dogs in prams and seen the shops with the little hats and uniforms for pets. 🙂 However, there is a downside as the number of dogs destroyed is booming as well and that is a pity, as a dog is for life and not until they stop wearing the hat 🙁
Lee says
Yes, I saw a programme a few years ago about the massive number of of dogs that are being put down. In an obvious (and commendable) effort to make people realise just how dire the situation is, they showed footage of a gas chamber they use. A chamber that is filled, emptied and filled again and again — day after day. Truly horrible to watch…