The nihon-ken standard was established in 1934 by the Nihon-ken Hozonkai, a Japanese community organization responsible for protecting conserve and maintain 6 native dog breeds including: Shiba InuKishu KenShikoku KenHokkaido KenKai Ken and Akita inu (Akita Inu is also known as Hachiko).
Akita Inu
You must have once heard the story of the loyal dog Hachiko, who even has a statue in the center of Japan’s Shibuya area. Hachiko belongs to the oldest Akita Inu dog breed in Japan. They are known for many virtues noble qualities and qualities.
According to the remaining traces, experts believe that Akita appeared about two millennia ago. This dog breed has independent thinking and language and is famous for its absolute loyalty and worship of its owner. Besides, Akita is also extremely affectionate.
Akita dogs have a particularly sweet face. with a very balanced body. Japanese Akita can be brindled reddish brown or pure white but must have urajiro markings (white cream streaks) on the chest, cheeks and tail area.
An adult Akita weighs about 32 – 45 kg and is 61 – 71 cm tall.
Hokkaido Inu
Hokkaido Inu, also known as Hokkaido Ken, originates from from Hokkaido – Japan’s northernmost island. Due to living in a land with harsh weather, Hokkaido Inu has thicker outer fur, larger feet and smaller ears to help them cope with the bitter cold.
< p style=”text-align:justify”>Smart, strong and dedicated are all qualities that speak of the Hokkaido Inu. They are trained to become hunting dogs capable of herding wild boars and even small bears. That’s why the Hokkaido Inu is also considered a very strong dog breed and can be aggressive towards other dogs. They have a strong bond with their owners and often ask to be petted and petted.
An adult Hokkaido Inu dog weighs about 20 kg and is 46 – 52 cm tall.
Kai Ken
Kai Ken is one of the most special Japanese dog breeds. They have impressive striped fur and are nicknamed “tiger dogs”.
Kai Ken were bred to be hunters of wild animals including wild boars, deer and chickens. This breed originates from the mountainous regions of Japan and has evolved very quickly with well-developed muscles. They are extremely smart, learn quickly and tend to be quite independent but also love to please their owners.
Kai Ken dogs are quite small in size, with an adult weight of about 4 – 9 kg and a height of 33 – 43 cm.
Kishu Ken
Kishu Ken is a relatively rare hunting dog breed even in Japan. According to a legend in Japan, Kishu Ken is a descendant of wolves.
About temperament, Kishu Ken is intelligent, brave and independent, but also more impulsive than other Japanese dog breeds. They have a strong natural hunting instinct, so people often avoid leaving them alone with smaller pets. left alone with other smaller pets. Kishu Ken loves outdoor activities.
An adult Kishu Ken weighs about 14 – 27 kg, height 43 – 55 cm.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is known as a national treasure and is also the most popular dog breed in Japan. Purebred Shiba dogs weigh about 7 – 10kg when mature. However, recently people have bred cute Shiba dogs that are super small and adorable, suitable for keeping in apartments.
Shiba Inu dog breed commonly raised in households. They live very friendly and close to people around them and children and get along with other pets in the house… that is what makes this dog breed very popular.
The Shiba Inu dog breed has an appearance that is quite easily confused with the Akita Inu, which looks like a miniature version of the Akita dog breed.</span >
Shikoku Ken
Shikoku Ken is a beautiful Japanese hybrid dog breed with a wolf-like appearance. This dog breed is extremely rare and very difficult to find even in Japan.
Shikoku Kens are said to be easier to care for than Shiba and Akita because they are not stubborn and are more friendly with other dogs. This is a great companion dog for people who enjoy the outdoors.
A Adult Shikoku Ken weighs about 15 – 20 kg and is 43-53 cm tall.
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