The Kishu Ken, also known as the Kishu Inu or just Kishu, is a breed of dogs from Japan. It is an old breed that was developed to hunt deer or boar. Its method of hunting is very discreet - it likes to remain silent while chasing the prey. It is a very rare breed even in Japan. Nowadays, it is kept as a pet. It resembles the Shiba Inu and Akita.
The Kishu Ken is an athletic dog with a gracious aspect. Its supple and slender body has agile movements and a vivid gait. This is a medium-sized dog with a compact structure. The head is normal in size with a round skull. The forehead is wide and has no wrinkles. The eyes have an almond shape and are small. The stop is deep, but smooth. The muzzle has the same length as the head and the nose is black. The erect ears are small and pricked.
The jaws are massive and powerful. The neck is short and thick. The back is long and straight and the shoulders are narrow. The chest is moderately deep and the legs are long and muscular. The tail is normal in size and curled over its body. The coat is dense and double. The outer coat is straight and close to the body with little feathering around its head, neck and tail. The color of the coat is pure white, but it can sometimes be brindle, red or cream.
There are no noticeable differences between genders. The females look slightly delicate. Generally, they are 17 to 22 inches (43 to 56 cm) and they weigh 30 to 60 pounds (13 to 27 kg).
This dog is a silent hunter that shows courage and bravery. It can easily climb trees to follow its prey. It strictly follows its master and acts independently only when seeing the prey. However, it does best at being a companion for humans. The ingredients that would make it the perfect dog are consistency and attention. Because of its hunting drives, you must train it from an early stage and always remain firm and self-confident. Also, socialize it well as a pup and keep an eye on it when outdoors. It tends to chase the small animals or pets if it does not know them. It is gentle and loyal to its family and remains aloof towards strangers. Even if it is not aggressive, it is more suitable for older children rather than toddlers. It does best in a farm or a house with large yard, but it can manage to live in an apartment. Even if it has the possibility to stay outside, it needs daily walks. It needs to run and play to remain fit and healthy.
The grooming is easy you must brush it weekly and wash it only when needed. It is a clean dog that does not need to be bathed often. It can live for about 12 years. Check it ears regularly and keep them clean. The Kishu Ken is an energetic dog that needs a dynamic family and a warm shelter.
