The Nihon Ken - Natural Monuments of Japan
Nihon Ken is the umbrella term for the six Japanese dog breeds that have been protected as natural monuments in Japan for decades. This made importing these dogs as we know them today impossible!
Like many native breeds, none of them share a "typical dog smell." They are distinguished by their erect ears, their wild appearance and gaze, and their sickle-shaped or folded tail. Their character is characterized by loyalty, courage, endurance, and strength. Each breed is named after the prefecture from which it originates, with the exception of the Shiba Inu. Accordingly, they also have different specializations.
- You can find more information under the respective breed. -
Like all dogs, Nihon Ken were formerly hunting and working dogs and, as already mentioned, specialized for their region. As Western influence took hold in Japan, other dog breeds interbred with the native ones to produce better fighting dogs. Many Nihon Ken were also considered "pests" and killed due to absurd claims (e.g., diseases) and in comparison to the "great European dogs."
Due to the isolation of many villages in remote areas and their importance as working dogs, the Nihon Ken has been preserved in its purity. In 1928, the Nihon Ken Honzonkai (Japanese Dog Protection Society), also known as Nippo, was founded to promote and protect these dogs.
The classification is not based on breed as in our country, but on size: small (Shiba), medium (Kai Ken, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kishu) and large (Akita).
Image by Shigero Kato
Unfortunately, despite many efforts, the Nihon Ken population remains highly unstable. The Shiba and Akita have already found many followers overseas and in Europe, leading to an increase in their registrations. Medium-sized breeds are particularly affected. Compared to the Hokkaido and Kai Ken, the most endangered breeds remain the Shikoku and Kishu.
Here's a rough overview for you. It's very clear that the number of registered dogs is declining sharply, from several thousand to just a few hundred over the course of just a few years. This overview doesn't show all newly registered puppies in Japan, but only some from specific clubs (e.g., KKA - Kai Ken).
Image by Shigero Kato
Many people believe that Nihon Ken are not dogs for beginners. However, this is not really the case. Those who already have experience with other "normal" breeds, such as German Shepherds or Labradors, can quickly despair at the archetypal behavior and "stubbornness" of Nihon Kens. However, if you keep an open mind and accept the breed-specific requirements, familiarize yourself with the archetypal types (wolf-like - see wolf packs), and approach the Nihon Ken as an individual personality, and find a suitable path with commitment (patience & consistency!), we have no problems getting started with dog ownership as a beginner.
It's always best to experience your dream breed in person. Personal preference based on appearance doesn't determine whether a dog is a good fit. It's the fundamental traits of the breed that enrich your life, everyday life, and the dog's personality that makes it a full-fledged member of the family. This harmonious union must be found. A dog, or any animal in general, should never be adopted for base motives, such as to satisfy a need for prestige. Most often, the weakest, our children/animals, suffer.
