Kishu Ken

Kishu, Kishu Inu
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Kishu Ken is a Japanese hunting breed known for its loyalty and reserved nature. They require early socialization and training and a firm owner.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the mountainous Kishu region of Japan
  • Originally bred for hunting deer and wild boar

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female17-19 inches30-50 pounds
Male17-20 inches30-60 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • White
  • Red
  • Sesame
Type
  • Double coat with a straight, harsh outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat
Length
  • Short to medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to heavy
Grooming
  • Regular brushing needed
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Well-proportioned with a broad forehead
Skull
  • Flat and broad
Ears
  • Small, triangular, and erect
Eyes
  • Small, dark, and triangular in shape
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Wedge-shaped
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Thick and muscular
Forequarters
  • Well-muscled
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Muscular and well-developed
Hind Legs
  • Powerful
Feet
  • Round and tight
Tail
  • Thick, high set, carried curled or sickle shaped over the back
Gait
  • Light and agile

Temperament

  • Courageous
  • Loyal
  • Reserved
  • Independent
  • Intelligent

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Yes, very affectionate with family
Good with Children
  • Generally good with children if properly socialized
Good with Dogs
  • Can be good with other dogs, especially if raised together, but may exhibit same sex aggression
Good with Cats
  • May have a strong prey drive, requires early socialization
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved and wary of strangers
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Protective of family and territory
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable to various living situations with proper exercise

Working Roles

  • Hunting
  • Companion

Exercise Needs

  • High, requires regular physical and mental stimulation

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Patellar Luxation

Additional Notes

  • Early socialization and training are important
  • Needs a firm and consistent owner

References