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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Kai Ken
The Kai Ken, also known as the Tora (Tiger) Dog, is a medium-sized, Spitz-type dog.
The skull is broad and nearly flat, with a slight median furrow. The muzzle is moderately
thick with a straight nasal bridge. The lips are black and tightly closed. The teeth
should meet in a scissor bite, but a level bite is also acceptable. The tongue is
generally spotted but may be pink or blue-black. The nose is always solid black
and the small dark brown eyes are slightly triangular in shape. The ears are strong,
erect and large. The neck is moderate, thick and muscular. The chest is broad and
deep and the legs are straight. The tail is thick and set high. It is usually sickle-shaped;
however, a tail that curls over the back is also acceptable. The double coat of
this breed is longer than the coat of the Shiba but shorter than the Akita coat.
The outer coat is harsh, straight and may stand away from the body. The under coat
is thick, soft and dense. Brindle is the preferred color for the coat of the Kai
Ken. Puppies are usually born with black fuzzy coats. The brindle color develops
as the dog grows into adulthood.
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Temperament
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The Kai Ken is courageous, brave as a hunter and very loyal to their owners. They
get along great with other dogs as they are pack animals. They will do well with
children as long as they are raised with them. This breed has a very strong prey
drive; therefore, they do not do well in a household with smaller animals. They
are gentle and devoted to their family, but are wary of strangers. This headstrong
"leader of the pack" is best suited for one person.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 18-22" ; Female Height: 17-20"
Weight: 25-50 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Kai Ken is a hardy breed due to isolation during their development.
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Living Conditions
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The Kai needs lots of room to roam and exercise. They will do best with a large
yard or a fenced yard if in an urban setting. This wandering breed should be fenced
and/or leashed any time they are outdoors. A suburban or rural environment is best
for this breed.
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Exercise
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This breed needs lots of regular exercise including long walks or a run in a secure
area.
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Life Expectancy
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About 11-13 years
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Grooming
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The Kai Ken should be brushed weekly to keep their coat clean and mat free. Only
bathe when necessary. Check ears often for wax build-up, dirt or infection. Trim
nails regularly. This breed sheds heavily twice a year.
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Origin
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The Kai Ken is an ancient Japanese breed that was originally developed as a hunting
dog on the province of Kai, on the island of Honshu. Because the province of Kai
was surrounded by mountains, the breed remained geographically isolated. They were
a favorite of hunters who specialize in hunting deer and wild boar. The Kai was
recognized by the UKC in 1997 and have been accepted for recording in the AKC Foundation
Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Working, UKC Northern
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