🐕 The Kishu Inu: An Elegant and Independent Japanese Dog
Originating from the Kishu mountains in Japan, the Kishu Inu is a robust and quiet hunting and companion dog. Originally bred for deer and boar hunting, it has retained its predatory instinct and independent character. It is valued for its loyalty and calmness, making it an ideal companion for an experienced owner.
With its muscular and harmonious body, erect ears, and curled tail, the Kishu Inu exudes a natural presence and discreet nobility.
✨ Why choose a Kishu Inu?
✔ A loyal and calm dog 🧘♂️: very attached to its owner, it is also composed and thoughtful.
✔ Independent and not very vocal 🦊: it doesn't bark unnecessarily, making it a discreet dog.
✔ Athletic and robust 🏃♂️: it needs a lot of exercise and outdoor activities.
✔ Low maintenance 🛁: its short coat requires little grooming.
✔ A rare and historical breed 🌿: declared a "Natural Monument" in Japan in 1934.
However, the Kishu Inu is not a dog for everyone. It has a strong, independent, and sometimes stubborn character, which requires firm and consistent training from a young age.
📊 Quick Facts
- Hypoallergenic? No ❌
- Weight: 19-25 kg
- Height: 43-55 cm
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (possible but difficult)
🏅 Personality (from 1 to 5 ⭐)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (close to its owner, but distant with strangers)
- Protective: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Playful: ☆☆☆☆☆ (not very interested in games)
- Vocalizations: ☆☆☆☆☆ (very quiet)
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (can be stubborn)
- Hunter: ☆☆☆☆☆ (instinct present but controllable)
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very composed on a daily basis)
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (has a great need for exercise)
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (does not like excessive affection)
👨👩👧👦 Gets along well with…
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (well socialized, can be a good companion)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (compatibility varies depending on upbringing)
- Strangers: ☆☆☆☆☆ (reserved, even distant)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (possible if given large daily outings)
> Note: The Kishu Inu is a dog that is wary of strangers and not very demonstrative. It does not bark much but can be stubborn, which requires rigorous and patient training.
🛁 Maintenance & budget
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (little care needed)
- Average annual cost: 700-1200 € 💰
- Purchase price: 2500-3000 €
- Care:
- Weekly brushing to remove dead hair.
- Occasional baths only if necessary.
- Lots of exercise to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors.
> Important: The Kishu Inu needs an active and experienced owner who can channel its energy and manage its independence.
💬 In summary
The Kishu Inu is a loyal, calm, and quiet dog, ideal for experienced owners who love independent and athletic dogs. While it can live in an apartment with an active lifestyle, it will be happier in a house with a garden.
If you are looking for a discreet, majestic, and loyal companion, the Kishu Inu is for you! 🏯🐕
