Kai Ken

The Kai Ken is a Japanese breed from the Kai region of Yamanashi Prefecture. It is also called the Tora Inu, or Tiger Dog, for its striped coat. It is one of six native Japanese breeds protected by the Nihon Ken Hozonkai (NIPPO), and it is rare even in Japan.

History

The Kai Ken is named after the old Kai Province, where it is said to have originated. It was set apart from the general population of native Japanese dogs when NIPPO was created in 1928. An agile climber, it was used to hunt in the steep mountains of Yamanashi. Its main quarry was the Japanese serow, along with deer, wild boar and now and then bear.

In 1931 the Kai Ken Aigokai was founded; it remains the main preservation society for the breed in Japan. The Kai Ken was designated a national monument in 1933.

Appearance

The Kai Ken is a medium-sized dog with a wedge-shaped head and prick ears. Males typically stand 46 to 56 cm (18 to 22 in) at the shoulder and females a little less, 43 to 51 cm (17 to 20 in). The tail is either curled over the back or carried like a sickle. Strong limbs and well-developed hocks reflect a history of life in the mountains.

The coat is harsh and of medium length, and always brindle. Three shades are recognized: aka-tora (red), chu-tora (middle) and kuro-tora (black). Puppies are born a solid color and the stripes come in as they grow, sometimes taking as long as five years to show fully.

Temperament

The Kai Ken is intelligent, agile, alert and brave. It is a natural hunter and a good watchdog, reserved with strangers and loyal to its family. The dogs are friendly, often good with children, and not usually aggressive toward other dogs. Many love to swim, and they have been known to cross rivers and climb trees after prey.

Facts on this page were checked against Wikipedia and may have changed since.