Kishu: Difference between revisions
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[[Category:Animal breeds originating in Japan]] |
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Revision as of 09:44, 17 November 2007
| Kishu | |||||||||
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| Other names | Kishu-Inu Kishu-ken | ||||||||
| Origin | Japan | ||||||||
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| Dog (domestic dog) | |||||||||
The Kishu, sometimes called Kishu Inu or Kishu Ken, is a Japanese breed of dog, developed there for thousands of years. It is descended from ancient medium-sized breeds. This breed appears to be related to the Akita and the Shiba Inu. It could even possibly be related to the Tosa Inu. Sometimes it is mistaken for the white variant of Hokkaido because of very similar appearance. The Japanese originally used this breed of dog for boar hunting. Like the Shiba, they are often quiet. Kishu will stalk prey quietly rather than bark.
File:KishuInu.Adult.Yama.Male.jpg
"Thousands of years ago, the Japanese decided to create the perfect dog. He would be pure white. He would be an excellent hunter. He would be faithful, intelligent and extremely clean. He would be named Kishu Ken or Kishu Inu." by the only Kishu Ken breeder in Europe.
The Kishu Ken stands 17-22 inches tall, averages 30-60 pounds, a regular-sized medium dog. The coat color is generally white, but it can also be brindle, sesame, or different solid colors. The nose color is primarilly black, but if the coat is white the nose can be brownish or pink in color. The bite is either scissor or a level bite. The tail is curved like that of an Akita or German Spitz. The coat is short, straight, and coarse with a thick undercoat. There is fringe on the cheeks and tail. The ears point forward and upward, like that of a German Shepherd. This breed is tough, agile, and friendly.
This breed is a foundation stock breed for the American Kennel Club, but is not in breed registries. The Japan Kennel Club recognizes the Kishu as a breed. The Kishu is recognized as a National Treasure of Japan, thusly export of the Kishu from Japan is severely restricted. Since this breed is so rare in North America and Europe, you may only get a chance to see him in his native homeland, Japan. There are only two known breeders outside of Japan -- one in Texas and one in Europe.