Kai Ken

The Kai Ken (Japanese: 甲斐犬) is a medium-sized dog traditionally used to hunt Kamoshika (Japanese goat-antelope), deer, wild boar, and bear in the Kai mountains of Japan. Due to centuries of isolation in the mountains, the Kai Ken is considered a rare breed even in its own country.

Often referred to as the Tiger Dog, they are fearless and tenacious hunters who will swim after prey or climb a tree to get to them.

The first Kai Ken dogs were brought to the United States in the 1950’s by American service men who had served in Japan.

Weight: Female: 30–40 lbs (14–18 kg) Male: 30–40 lbs (14–18 kg)
Height: Female: 17–20 inches (43–50 cm) Male: 18–22 inches (46–56 cm)
Coat: Outer coat medium- long and rough. Undercoat thick, soft and dense.
Color: Black Brindle (Kuro-Tora), Brindle (Chu-Tora), and Red Brindle (Aka-Tora).
Life span: 14-16 years

Temperament: Intelligent, Loyal, Agile, Reserved, Alert, Brave.

Health: Healthy breed. Rare cases of allergies, luxating patella, and seizures.

Special Interest:
• Designated a national monument in Japan in 1933
• Also known as the Kai Dog, Kai Inu, Tora Inu, and Tiger Dog.
• One of the six native Japanese spitz breeds that include the Akita, Shiba Inu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kishu Ken.

Classifications:
AKC: FSS
UKC: Northern Breed
FCI: Group 5 Spitz and Primitive dogs, Section 5 Asian Spitz and related breeds #317

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