Kishu Inu

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Japan

Group: Sporting dog

Height: 17-22 in.

Weight: 30-60 lbs.

Life span: 11-13 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: if raised with them

Good with other pets: not with small pets due to high prey drive, may show dominance with other dogs

Kishu Inu Dog History

The Kishu Inu sometimes, referred to as Kishu Ken, is a Japanese dog breed that developed thousands of years ago. The Kishu Inu is named after the region where it was bred in the mountainous regions in Kishu (know known as Wakayama Prefecture), south of Osaka. The Kishu Inu is similar to the Akita Inu and the Shiba however many believe that the Kishu predates both breeds. Because of the Kishu Inu’s quiet nature, it was used as a hunting dog; quietly-stalking deer and boar.

Kishu Inu Dog Growth and Appearance

The Kishu Inu stands about 17-22 inches tall and averages around 30-60 pounds, making them a medium sized dog. The Kishu’s coat is generally white. Initially, their coats were often marked with red, sesame or brindle. However, from 1934 on, once the Kishu was designated as a “natural monument” to Japan, only solid colors were accepted. The preferred[[ coat color and the only one seen in dog shows is white. Solid red or sesame colors are often found in the Kishu as well. The Kishu Inu nose color is for the most part black, but with the white coated Kishu Inu’s the nose can be brownish or pink. The Kishu Inu dog bite is scissor or a level bite. Their tail is curled over the back much like the Akita and Shiba Inu. The Kishu’s coat is short, straight, course and thick with an undercoat. There is fringe on the fur near the cheeks and tail. Their ears are small and incline forward. The average lifespan for a Kishu Inu is between 11-13 years.

Kishu Inu Dog Personality and Training

Kishu Inus are a one family dog. Kishu’s are known to be very courageous, fearless and very loyal. They have a strong urge to hunt and have been known to go off in search of small prey. The Kishu Inu does well around other dogs in the household, but like most dogs with pack instincts there may be fights for dominance among the dogs, however for the most part they are very docile. Kishu Inu dogs are very devoted to their family and do very well if raised alongside children. Kishu’s may be timid around strangers. These intelligent dogs are easily housebroken and trained. Early socialization is recommended for any Kishu Inu dog. These willful dogs need a dominant handler as they tend to be obstinate. Kishus respond well to training done with esteem, suppleness, fairness and consistency.

References

Kishu Inu Dog Information