Kishu Ken
Quick Summary
Noble hunting companion suited for experienced owners. Combines loyalty with independence. Best in active households with secure outdoor spaces.
Contents
Weight Range
30-60 lbs
♂ Male: 30-60 lbs
♀ Female: 30-60 lbs
Height Range
43-56 inches
♂ Male: 17-22"
♀ Female: 17-22"
Life Expectancy
11-13 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #32
Above Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Japan's mountainous regions during the 1930s, the Kishu Ken served as a skilled hunter of wild boar and deer, demonstrating remarkable tracking and hunting abilities
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 17"-22" |
| Female Height | 17"-22" |
| Male Weight | 30-60 lbs |
| Female Weight | 30-60 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1500-2500 for puppy, plus supplies. Monthly expenses average $100-150 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs range $500-800, excluding emergencies.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Displays noble and dignified temperament with strong hunting instincts. Shows remarkable loyalty to family while maintaining independent nature. Alert and protective without being aggressive, demonstrating excellent situational awareness.
Social Needs
Moderately social breed that forms strong bonds with family but can be reserved with strangers. Gets along well with other dogs when properly socialized. Can handle alone time if properly exercised.
Breed Overview
Noble and dignified, the Kishu Ken displays a striking white coat and powerful build characteristic of ancient Japanese hunting breeds. Medium-sized with well-balanced proportions, they feature pricked ears, a curled tail, and an alert expression. Their muscular frame and agile movement reflect their heritage as skilled big-game hunters, while maintaining an elegant bearing that commands respect.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Loyal and devoted
- ✓ Excellent hunting abilities
- ✓ Clean and easy to groom
- ✓ Athletic and agile
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Independent nature
- ✗ Can be reserved with strangers
- ✗ Requires experienced handler
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Faithful, Noble, Docile |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including vigorous activities like hiking and running. High-intensity play sessions and mental stimulation through tracking games are essential. Best exercised in secure areas due to strong prey drive.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Diet should be rich in protein with moderate fat content. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent weight gain.
Feed 2-3 cups of premium dog food daily, split into two meals. Protein-rich diet with adequate fat content supports active lifestyle. Fresh water always available. Adjust portions based on activity level and age.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to various homes with adequate space for exercise. Thrives in houses with fenced yards. Tolerates different climates but needs indoor access and protection from extreme weather.
Requires minimum of 1000 square feet of living space with secure outdoor area. Adapts to various environments if exercise needs are met. Fenced yard highly recommended for safety and exercise.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Bred in the mountainous Kishu region of Japan, these dogs earned their reputation as fearless hunters of wild boar and deer. Their white coat was specifically selected for visibility during hunting expeditions in dense forest.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Japan's mountainous regions during the 1930s, the Kishu Ken served as a skilled hunter of wild boar and deer, demonstrating remarkable tracking and hunting abilities.
Fun Fact
White coat was specifically bred for visibility during night hunts in dense Japanese forests.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular brushing during shedding seasons. Early socialization essential for balanced temperament.