Kishu Ken History

The Japanese dog breeds are ancient and developed from a common source. In Japan, spitz type hunting dogs (canis familiaris palustris) lived over 3000 years ago.

The Kishu Ken (ken meaning “dog” in Japanese) developed from tough, medium sized dogs that roamed the mountains of Japan many centuries ago. They were the “matagi’s” dogs, used to hunt boar and deer. The region in Japan called Wakayama is best known for the breeding and development of the Kishu.

In early years Kishus came in different colors, but the white-coated Kishus showed superior qualities and therefore were used more often for breeding. The hunters preferred the white color because of easy visibility. Working dogs were bred for efficiency and usefulness.

Prior to 1934 there were Kishus in white, red, brindle and some that were “spotted”. But the solid colors became the only accepted colors and the “spotted” coat Kishus had disappeared by 1945. Today the white coat is the preferred color and virtually the only color seen in show Kishus.

The Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has categorized the Kishu as a hunting and companion dog. It is still used for hunting in Japan to this day.

In 1934 the Kishu was designated a “Memorial of Nature” in its native country. The Japanese people are proud of their dogs and bestow honors and praise on them. This pride and commitment to their national treasures……..and the Kishu is one of them……is the reason the Kishus are rarely exported.