Kai Ken, Tora Inu - Tiger Dog

Natural monument since 1933

As the name suggests, the Kai is characterized by its tabby coat.

Two styles formed the foundation for Kai Ken. As with other Nihon Ken styles, certain styles may predominate. However, no two styles are favored in Japan. They are treated completely equally.

Shishi Inu-Gata have thicker, stockier proportions and a bear-like face. They are primarily used for hunting wild boar.

Shika Inu-Gata have longer, smaller bodies with fox-like faces. They are primarily used for hunting deer.

Both combine today's Kai with strength, speed, agility and high, quick thinking as well as endurance.

Character:

They are very submissive (submissive) and protective towards their owners—one-person dogs. Their dexterity and self-interest (survival instinct) make them excellent problem solvers. They skillfully use their paws and love elevated places (good climbers).

Kais are very sensitive and have a strong memory for both positive and negative experiences. Proper socialization and training are essential for this breed to prevent behavioral and developmental problems.

They are not really guard or protection dogs.

News:

They are even used as search and rescue dogs in Japan.

When choosing your Kai Ken, you should pay close attention to what you're looking for and what you want. There are different standards with different permissible sizes, which may be mutually exclusive.

- for further details please refer to the table below -

Health:

Unfortunately, Kais carry more than "standard" diseases like HD, ED, PL, and PRA. There are genes for epilepsy and heart problems in the breed.

It's not a bad thing if a Kai has spots on its tongue. Depending on the type, these are even quite welcome in the Japanese standard! Kai also don't lighten with age. This is a misconception. They are born with a fixed number of stripes that simply grow apart as they age.