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Welcome to Our !RARE! Breed of the Month Feature!

January's !RARE! Breed of the Month
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2011 !RARE! Breed of the Month Recap
2012 !RARE! Breed of the Month Recap
2013 !RARE! Breed of the Month Recap

Featuring May's !RARE! Breed of the Month
the Kishu Ken

What is a Kishu Ken?

The Kishu Ken is an ancient Japanese breed dating back before recorded history, and it predates both the Akita and the Shiba. It is a mid-sized dog of classic Japanese type. It is said the Japanese wished to create the perfect dog and the Kishu Ken was the result... pure white in color and extremely clean, highly intelligent, loyal, faithful, and an excellent hunter. – @ kishuken-nel.com

History & Origin

The Japanese dog breeds are ancient and developed from a common source. In Japan, spitz type hunting dogs (canis familiaris palustris) lived over 3000 years ago. The Kishu Ken (ken meaning "dog" in Japanese) developed from tough, medium sized dogs that roamed the mountains of Japan many centuries ago. They were the "matagi's" dogs, used to hunt boar and deer. The region in Japan called Wakayama is best known for the breeding and development of the Kishu. In early years Kishus came in different colors, but the white-coated Kishus showed superior qualities and therefore were used more often for breeding. The hunters preferred the white color because of easy visibility. Working dogs were bred for efficiency and usefulness.

Prior to 1934 there were Kishus in white, red, brindle and some that were "spotted". But the solid colors became the only accepted colors and the "spotted" coat Kishus had disappeared by 1945. Today the white coat is the preferred color and virtually the only color seen in show Kishus.



In 1934 the Kishu was designated a "Memorial of Nature" in its native country. The Japanese people are proud of their dogs and bestow honors and praise on them. This pride and commitment to their national treasures – and the Kishu is one of them – is the reason the Kishus are rarely exported. The Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has categorized the Kishu as a hunting and companion dog. It is still used for hunting in Japan to this day.

@ akc.org

Appearance & Structure

Medium sized dog, well balanced with muscles developed. The dog has pricked ears and curled or sickle tail, with nobility and dignity in a naive feeling. The conformation is strong, well boned and compact, with noteworthy endurance. The outercoat of the Kishu is straight and harsh, with a soft, dense undercoat. Kishu Kens white in color are preferred, but the breed occasionally comes in red or brindle.

Temperament

The Kishu Ken is a hunting dog, originally bred to hunt boar and deer; they have become home companions now that hunting for food is no longer necessary, but the hunting instinct is still very strong in the breed. They have a high prey drive and should be raised from puppies with any other animals in the home, such as cats or smaller dogs. Kishus are very loving and affectionate with their families and need to be included in activities. They are great with kids if raised with them. They are often aloof with strangers. Kishus need a yard to "hunt" in. They do not do well in a kennel environment. The Kishu is a very athletic, muscular dog that has become highly popular as a family pet. – @ kishuken-nel.com



@ akc.org & kishuken-nel.com