The Kai Ken is a medium-sized dog breed that has been around a long time. It is a native Japanese spitz-type dog. Other names of this dog are Tora Inu, Tora Dog, or Tiger Dog. It is a well-balanced dog that doesn’t bark a lot and will be happy playing in a home with a fenced-in yard.
Although Kai Ken gets along easily with everyone yet, you must not ignore their hunting instincts and carefully supervise while with the youngsters. They are very alert and in tune with their surroundings and do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Read on to know more about this unique and rare dog breed.
Kai Ken History
The Kai Ken, commonly known as the Tiger Dog, is a native Japanese spitz-type dog. This dog is rare even in its native country and known to be a living national monument there. It originated in Kai Province in Yamanashi.
It stayed isolated and wild in a mountain region of Kai and was also used for hunting larger games like Japanese serow (Kamoshika), deer, and wild boar. In the 1950s, the first Kai Ken marks its appearance in the US. In 1931 a preservation society for this breed was established in Japan named Kai Ken Aigokai (KKA).
Kai Ken Characteristics
The Kai Ken is a medium-sized dog with a rough dark-colored coat that contains patches all around. The body is compact and sturdy, giving a strong appearance to this breed. The Head is wedge-shaped, while the muzzle is long and pointed with a small round black nose that makes this dog looks like a wolf. This powerful canine has straight triangular ears that are least prone to infections.
How Big to Kai Ken Get
Kai Ken stands up to 18-22 inches and weighs anywhere from 25-55 lbs. The bitch stands comparatively low in a range between 17-20 inches.
How Long Does Kai Ken Live
The average life expectancy of your Kai Ken is around 15 years. Keeping your pup at a healthy weight and the right living conditions is one of the best ways to ensure that they stick around for as long as possible.
How Much Does a Kai Ken Cost
Although Kai Ken is a rare breed that is difficult to find, if you have found a breeder who carries out rearing of this breed, the cost to purchase will be around $1,500. Its yearly medical expenses are $460 for basic health care and Medications for Dogs, while the yearly dog food expenses are about $145 for good quality Dry Dog Food and Dog Treats.
Kai Ken Temperament/Personality
Kai Ken is not even a natural hunter but a great guard, watchdog, and good companion. This dog tends to get along with all ages. However, it would help if you did not ignore their hunting instincts and carefully supervise while with the youngsters.
They tend to be aggressive toward strangers; thus, proper socialization at the early age of the dog is crucial. Their attention span is short and can sometimes be rather difficult to train. You have to present yourself as a firm leader to handle and train them well.
Alert, friendly, gentle, intelligent, protective, and social, this dog can be the right choice for “your guard dog as a companion.” They are very alert and in tune with their surroundings and do not welcome strangers until properly introduced. Daily exercise is a must to avoid the inconvenience of destructive behavior that comes from pent-up energy.
Caring for Kai Ken
Kai Ken is a loyal and intelligent dog who turns out to be an excellent companion. Due to its isolation living in the mountains, the dog is not prone to separation anxiety even though it is left alone for hours. However, it would help if you did not leave him as highly energetic, and supervision is essential.
Kai Ken Nutrition
How much and what your dog eats depends on its size and different stages of his age. You can feed a puppy on Puppy Milk Replacer them gradually going towards high-quality dry dog kibble specially manufactured for your dog’s size, weight, metabolism level, and so on.
How to Groom a Kai Ken
Kai Ken has a double coat, and he is a seasonal shedder, almost shedding twice a year. He needs weekly brushing and coat occasional coat trimming to eliminate dead hair and old coat and remain looking healthy. Give warm baths after intervals to help the hair come out quicker.
Kai Ken Activity Levels
Kai Kens are known for their endurance and stamina. Having originated from mountains, these dogs are well suited to live in rural areas. However, they can also adapt to urban life given a spacious area such as a yard with a fence. They need a great deal of exercise daily to remain happy and healthy, both physically and mentally.
Caring for Kai Ken
When adding a Kai Ken to your family, make sure he is healthy and protected. It is crucial to take care of its diet, exercise, and all other needs. He is a seasonal shedder; thus, you need to brush daily in shedding seasons such as summers and fall.
Cut his nails and clean ears as needed, brush his teeth at least biweekly to ensure his gums and teeth remain healthy and strong. The early life training of the pup is your foremost responsibility. These dogs are purpose-built for hunting and are great chasers. Therefore, putting on their Dog Harness and leash is essential before going out.
Kai Ken Health
The Kai Ken is generally a healthy breed with few health conditions, and these are Allergies, Eye issues like Progressive Retinol Atrophy, Hip Dysplasia, Cancer, Luxating Patellas, and Heart Murmurs. Not all Kai Kens will get any or all of these diseases. However, it is important to be aware of them if you’re considering this breed.
Breeds Similar to Kai Ken
Best Dog Food For Kai Ken
The best dog food for Kai Ken is Merrick Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food. This meal is formed with whole food and boneless chicken, the latter providing protein, whereas the former provides much-needed nutrition. It strictly restricts the utilization of any artificial raw material or preservatives.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin ensure strong hips and joints.
- A healthy ratio of protein and healthy fat ingredients helps your pup maintain an ideal body mass and structure.
- Vitamins, fibers, and minerals provide a sufficient amount of energy and immunity.
Best Puppy Food For Kai Ken
The best puppy food for Kai Ken is Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Healthy Development Small Bites. This recipe is a perfect combination of healthy ingredients mixed with savory chicken to promote healthy skeletal development, eye and brain development, and a strong immune system. Your pup can lead a happy and healthy life through this food.
- The pellet size food particles help the pup to easily intake them and digest them later.
- Especially for puppies up to 1 year and pregnant mothers.
- Strictly prohibits using any artificial preservatives.
Best Dog Crate For Kai Ken
The best dog crate for Kai Ken is EliteField 4-Door Collapsible Soft-Sided Dog Crate with Curtains. Available in various dimensions and colors, this dog crate is a multi-zipped soft kennel which gives your Kai Ken maximum satisfaction. The fabric can be easily cleaned; furthermore, sufficient ventilation is provided.
- This crate can be easily folded and reassembled.
- Structured with lightweight materials.
- Comes with a free carrying pouch and fleece bed, convenient for traveling.
Best Dog Bed For Kai Ken
The best dog bed for Kai Ken is Aspen Pet Self-Warming Bolster Dog Bed. Creators have used the same technology used in making space blankets. The warm fabric is convenient for cold climates.
- No electricity or battery is required for this product to work.
- Includes a special layer that reflects your Kai Ken’s body heat.
- Usage of polyester restricts the chances of slipping.
Best Dog Harness For Kai Ken
The best dog harness for Kai Ken is PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness. This harness is available in different sizes, and its shades ensure the obliteration of neck thrusts or chokes while stopping your Kai Ken. The owners can enjoy a safe and comfortable walk with their Kai Ken through this product.
- The chest strap is designated to the chest instead of the highly sensitive neck area to restrict choking or discomfort.
- The straps and buckles are easily removable.
- The martingale loop, fitted in the chest averts twisting or turning.
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