Kishu
FCI 318
52 cmAdult male
at the withers
at the withers
- Mass
- 20–27 kg
Kishu — size comparison
The Kishu is a strong Japanese spitz with erect ears, powerful legs and a tail carried over its back. White dogs are best known, although other colours occur. A
Silhouette comparison
Height
Ground withersReference values · details in the profiles
HeightScale in cm
0204060
52 cm
The scale compares the named dimensions. View direction and measurement points are given for each animal.
Kishu — size comparison — facts and sources
The Kishu is a strong Japanese spitz with erect ears, powerful legs and a tail carried over its back. White dogs are best known, although other colours occur. A dense undercoat lies beneath straight, fairly harsh guard hair. Its compact, athletic build suits efficient movement over mountain terrain.
The breed formed in Wakayama and Mie, formerly known as Kishu. Local dogs hunted wild boar and deer, valued for endurance and ability on difficult ground. In 1934 the Kishu received natural-monument status in Japan. Its name retains the link with its native region, whose conditions and hunting traditions shaped development.
It is usually strongly bonded to familiar people but reserved with newcomers. It carefully assesses situations and can concentrate for a long time on what it considers important. Animal movement or interesting scent may quickly prompt action. In familiar surroundings it often remains calm without constantly displaying emotion.