KISHU

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

Dating back 3000 years or even longer, the Kishu Ken’s origin is unknown. Later these dogs were classified based on the size and physical characteristics. Located off the mainland of Japan on the southernmost island, it originated in the mountains of Kyushu. Primarily known as a hunting dog, they were bred to hunt the deer, wild boar, and even bear. The kishu ken breeds standardized in the year and it includes the dog of Wakayama region.

Temperament & Personality

For the first time dog owners, this breed is a strict no. They are faithful, intelligent and loyal. They tend to create a strong bonding with one member of the family. This breed does well with children and other dogs they grow up. They do not home with other small household animals or cats due to their high prey drives. Mostly gentle, thoughtful and silent they remain wary of strangers. If they smell a weak minded person, they can become aggressive.

Exercise

The Kishu requires sufficient space to exercise and roam which can be a house with a yard or urban environment with a fence. Taking walks or running is a part of their exercise routine. As a part of the exercise, herding is highly effective.

Grooming

To keep their coat clean and free of bugs weekly brushing is required. Bathe them as and when they look filthy or dirty. For avoiding dirt and wax build-up, regular checking of ears is very important. It is advisable to trim their nails on a regular basis. Extra grooming is needed since these dog shed ones or twice in a year.

Health Problems

There are small health issues such as epilepsy, Addison disease, thyroid disease, gastrointestinal effects and thyroid disease that have been recorded.

Training

This dog is easy to train since it is intelligent. Using positive training techniques can help the dog in a big way. House training will happen quickly and focus should be placed on early socialization. To make it react quickly, bring various people and situation in front of the dog. Lessons should be very funny and interesting and not be repetitive. Complex commands should be taught in a gradual way.