Kishu

The Kishu is a medium-sized Japanese dog that has traditionally been used for big game hunting and home protection.

General details

The Kishu is a medium-sized dog weighing between 15 and 25 kg and measuring between 43 and 55 cm in height at the withers. Its average life expectancy is around 12 years. This breed belongs to Group 5 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) which groups together Spitz type dogs and primitive type dogs.

Breed history in brief

The Kishu is an ancient Japanese dog breed that originated in the Kishu region on the island of Honshu. Its history is believed to date back to the feudal period in Japan, where it was used for hunting wild animals such as wild boar and deer. For centuries, hunters in the Kishu region developed this breed, selecting the most suitable dogs for hunting. Beginning in the 20th century, the Kishu's popularity increased throughout Japan and it was officially recognized as a breed in 1934. Today, while still used for hunting, it has also become a popular companion dog in Japan and elsewhere in the world.

Breed characteristics

The Kishu is a medium sized dog with a muscular and compact appearance. It has a large head and strong jaw with small, triangular ears that stand erect. Its dark eyes are almond-shaped with an alert expression, and the tail is carried curled or sickle-shaped over the back when the dog is on the move. Their coat is short, thick and dense, pure white or red. Kishu are courageous, loyal and highly intelligent dogs, making them excellent watchdogs and hunting companions. They are also known for their great endurance and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Common health problems

The Kishu breed is generally considered healthy, but some genetic diseases can affect this breed, such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and Von Willebrand's disease. They are also prone to develop skin problems, such as atopic dermatitis and allergies.