Kishu

Other names : Kishu Inu, Kishu Ken

Photo: adult dog of Kishu breed
© Molica_an / Shutterstock

This loyal and vigilant dog is only around 60% as serious as he looks. Yes, he is disinterested in strangers (perhaps a healthy trait) and often cold towards his own kind, but he can also be fiercely affectionate towards his chosen confidants and enjoys a game as befits his sporting heritage. Native to Japan, where he is descended from the hunting dogs of the Wakayama and Mie Prefecture mountains, he is celebrated as one of his home country’s six ‘national monument’ breeds. His distinctive sickle-shaped brush tail, white, red, or sesame coat, and blissful expression have made his name beyond the shores of his home island.

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Life expectancy

The Kishu has a life expectancy of between 11 and 13 years

Temperament

Size

Medium

Adult size

Female Between 18 and 20 in
Male Between 19 and 22 in

Adult weight

Female Between 44 and 55 lb
Male Between 44 and 55 lb
Coat colour
Black White Red
Type of coat
Short
Eye colour
Brown
Good to know

Finding an available Kishu Ken in the UK is a lengthy process. Originally, these dogs’ coats had red or sesame spots or streaks, but from 1934 only uniform coats were admitted, and spotted coats disappeared by 1945. Nowadays, a white coat is not uncommon.

More details about the Kishu

Kishu: Origins and history

The Kishu Ken can trace his heritage to a 3,000-year line of spitz-type hunting dogs of Japan’s mountain regions. In later centuries, they were selectively bred for their skills and also their colour, so that by 1945 the spotty varieties had all disappeared. In 1934, this proud dog became a “Memorial of Nature” in his homeland.

FCI classification of the Kishu

  • Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types

  • Section 5 : Asian Spitz and related breeds

Training a Kishu

He is a clever dog and a quick learner, who is receptive when a relationship of mutual trust has been established. The Kishu pup must learn the basics early to become the wonderful companion he deserves to be.

Kishu: Purchase price

We do not have enough data to set an average price. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £70 to £110 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.

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