Just as in any country around the world, it is, of course, polite ( and safer) to ask a dog owner if you can pat their dog.
Same goes for asking to pat a dog in Japan.
Whether the dog is in a stroller or walking with its owner it is best to ask first. Even better? First start by complimenting the dog with a simple “KAWAIIIIIIII!”
Because of the language barrier it is best to keep it simple.
Wanchan sawatte mo ii desu ka? (May I pat your doggie?)
If the owner is fine with this (usually they are) they will respond with something like “ii desu yo” (You may!) “daijyobu desu” (that’s fine!) or “douzo” (Sure, go ahead)
And what if they gesture or verbalize no? You can politely answer “ok desu” (Ok) or “shitsureishimashita” (My apologies *for asking*)
Don’t be offended if this happens. Although it’s not common for people to say no – It is likely more to do with the owner being extremely introverted, a biting dog or an over popular dog who might not want any more attention for the day.
If you’d like to ask the dog’s name in Japanese:
Wanchan no namae wa nandesu ka? (What is your doggie’s name?)
If you love dogs I think you will also love my favourite puppy viewing spot in Tokyo. A dog washing salon in Roppongi with a big viewing window. I’ve included all the details in my Roppongi post here.
You may also like the dog park section of Yoyogi Park ( details in my Harajuku blog post here.)
Did you know that you can now rent a bike in Yoyogi Park (including kids bikes, tandem bikes and parent & child mamachari electric bikes in Yoyogi Park with prices starting at 100 yen? (they accept most major credit cards, including Diners Club and American Express!)
To rent bikes as a family in Yoyogi Park, put “Yoyogi Park Cycling Center” into google maps (also sometimes referred to as “Pedalico”) – closest station is Yoyogi Park Station Exit 4B but you can also walk from Harajuku easily. Helmet rental is also available. The smallest child sized bike is a 12 inch (for children 2-4 years) and the Parent Child bikes are for children up to
Please note that bikes can only be used within Yoyogi Park grounds. The Cycling Center in Yoyogi is open 9am-4:30pm and is closed on Mondays (and Tuesdays if Monday is a public holiday) and is also closed during the Japan New Year Period.)
