The Kai Ken (甲斐犬 ), also known as the Tora Inu (Tiger Dog), is one of the six native Japanese spitz type dogs. The breed’s brindle coat distinguishes it from the other medium sized Nihon Ken. In size, the Kai is larger than the Shiba, smaller than the Japanese Akita, and the smallest of the medium sized Nihon Ken (Shikoku, Kishu and Hokkaido).
The Kai originated in the mountainous region of Kai (modern day Yamanashi) which gave the breed its name. While traditionally used to hunt deer, their versatility and athleticism allowed them to be used to hunt many types of game, ranging from pheasant to bear. Today they are primarily used to hunt pheasant, wild boar, and deer.
The Kai as a breed is intelligent, athletic, and alert, with a strong desire to hunt and climb. Like most Nihon Ken, the Kai is an independent thinker. Many are very attached to their owners, and they can make excellent companions for the individual prepared to give them the attention and exercise they require. Amongst the Nihon Ken, the Kai are typically more even-tempered, and more likely to choose flight in a fight-or-flight situation. They make reasonable watch dogs, but are not by nature guard dogs or protection dogs, and may shut down under harsh training or punishment. Kai are great with people and other pets provided they receive the proper socialization. They have shown the ability to be quick learners, with some active in Japan as search and rescue dogs.
The Kai is said to carry more of the genetic make-up of the historical Nihon Ken due to Yamanashi’s mountainous isolation, and has stayed relatively pure in its bloodlines. They are a rare breed even in their native country with an estimated population of around 12,000-14,000. The main breed registry is run by the Kai Ken Aigokai. The Kai was classified as a Living Natural Monument by the government of Japan in 1934. Some genetic health conditions which have been seen in the breed are allergies, seizures, luxating patella, hypodontia, and a high instance of cryptorchidism.
