Kai Ken
Description
The Kai Ken, also called the Tiger Dog, is a rare Japanese breed with a history dating back to the 1920s near Mount Fuji. It was bred for hunting and versatile work in the mountainous Kai region, making it agile and alert. This medium-sized dog weighs between 25 and 40 pounds and features a distinctive brindle coat that comes in black, red, or standard brindle shades. Its double coat is medium in length, providing protection in various weather conditions. Kai Kens are quiet by nature, rarely barking without cause, but they require plenty of physical activity to stay content. Their unique brindle colors and moderate size make them eye-catching without being overwhelming. They adapt well to active households that can meet their exercise needs and appreciate their reserved but devoted temperament.
Grooming
The Kai Ken's medium-length double coat demands regular upkeep to stay healthy and clean. Brush your dog three times a week to prevent mats and remove loose hair, increasing frequency during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall. Using an undercoat rake helps clear dead hair trapped beneath the top layer. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat fresh, but always blow-dry afterward to aid in de-shedding and avoid dampness that can irritate the skin. - Brush 3× weekly; daily during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake for dead hair removal - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, followed by blow-drying - Check ears and trim nails regularly Pro tip: Blow-drying after baths not only dries the coat but also loosens dead undercoat, reducing seasonal shedding significantly. Kai Kens don’t have stain-prone coats, so focus on maintaining the brindle colors’ natural shine through regular brushing.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Kai Kens need about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to keep them mentally and physically satisfied. Morning walks can be brisk and focused on exercise, while evening strolls offer a chance to explore and sniff, which engages their hunting instincts. This breed thrives on variety, so mixing routes and adding light training during walks helps prevent boredom. Example routine: - Morning: 45-minute brisk walk with interval jogging - Evening: 40-minute relaxed walk with scent games and socialization Regular, structured walks prevent restlessness and support their muscular build. Avoid long periods of inactivity, as Kai Kens can become frustrated without sufficient outlet for their natural drive.
Boarding
When boarding a Kai Ken, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches to accommodate their medium frame comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play sessions, so plan for two energetic play blocks daily, combined with scent and brain games to keep their minds sharp. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and maintain a predictable routine to help the Kai Ken feel secure and reduce stress. Their reserved nature means they may take time to warm up to new people, so patience is key. Enrichment activities that mimic their hunting background, like scent trails or puzzle feeders, work well. Avoid overcrowding playtime to prevent overwhelming this moderately social breed and ensure individual attention whenever possible.