Kuvasz vs Kai Ken - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Kuvasz vs Kai Ken - Breed ComparisonKai Ken is originated from Japan but Kuvasz is originated from Hungary. Kai Ken may grow 20 cm / 7 inches shorter than Kuvasz. Kai Ken may weigh 30 kg / 66 pounds lesser than Kuvasz. Kai Ken may live 4 years more than Kuvasz. Both Kai Ken and Kuvasz has almost same litter size. Both Kai Ken and Kuvasz requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
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Japan
Hungary
Height Male:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
65 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
Height Female:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
65 - 76 cm
25 - 30 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 22 kg
30 - 49 pounds
35 - 52 kg
77 - 115 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 22 kg
30 - 49 pounds
35 - 52 kg
77 - 115 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 7
6 - 8
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Tiger Dog, Tora Inu
Hungarian Kuvasz
Colors Available:
Brindle color in black or red shade
White
Coat:
Medium length and coarse
Medium length to long, wavy or straight
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

kai kenThe Kai Ken dog hails from Japan and is both an ancient and rare dog. In fact the dog was discovered in 1929 in the Kai province near Mount Fuji. The dog has the nickname Tora Inu in Japan which means 'Tiger Dog'. Maybe its got to do with the brindle striped coat or his bravery.

He falls into the working class category. In 1931, the Kai Ken Aigokai registry was formed to preserve the dog. In fact in this year Dasuke Adachi discovered these dogs and in 1934 was actually designated a Natural Monument in Japan and also protected by law.

The Kai Ken was recognized in 1934 by the Japanese Kennel Club. It is not 100% certain but it is thought that the dog was brought to the United States in the 1950s.

kuvaszThe Kuvasz is an ancient dog breed from Hungary. It is believed that the dog is the oldest of the ancient Hungarian dog breeds, and in fact a fossilized skeleton dating back to the 9th century, and almost identical to the modern Kuvasz, was found near Keszthely.

During the 15th century the Kuvasz became very sought after, being found in royal courts. Puppies were given as royal gifts. Later the popularity of the breed waned and then it was found in its traditional role of guarding livestock.

As Kuvasz numbers dwindled, breeding efforts were started but it is believed that other large dogs such as the Great Pyrenees were used with the Kuvasz to continue with the breeding programs.

In 1884, the first Hungarian standard for the breed was written. It was in 1966 that the Kuvasz Club of America was established.

Description

kai ken puppy - descriptionThe Kai Ken has always been used for hunting purposes. He comes as recommended for hunting people and those who are active.

It is a medium sized dog standing at between 43 to 56cm in height both male and female and weighing between 14 and 22kg.

The ears of the dog are erect, the muzzle is fairly tapered and the nose is black. The tail is bushy like that of a fox and curls over the back. The double coat of the dog is of medium length and harsh and is a brindle color in a reddish or black shade.

Puppies are born black and then the brindle stripe-like pattern comes in later. He has an athletic body and is a keen swimmer.

Temperament:

The Kai Ken is an intelligent dog, loyal to his human family while being somewhat reserved around strangers. They are amicable with both children in the home as well as other pets.

He is a friendly, intelligent dog, forming close bonds with his family. Have him trained and socialized and he'll make you a splendid pet who will be willing to guard you if anyone threatens.

One look at that bright face and you can see that he is an intelligent, independent dog. He is also courageous and fearless and makes a great watchdog, especially because he is naturally reserved and suspicious with strangers.

kuvasz puppy - descriptionThe beautiful Kuvasz is a large, muscled dog standing at 65 – 76cm in height and weighing 35 – 52kg. He has a double coat of dense white hair which can be straight or wavy.

It is natural for the dog to lose most of the long coat during the Summer months. In other words this dog has a seasonal coat.

The nose is black, the eyes brown and alert, the ears are of medium length and floppy and the tail is carried long and low.

Temperament:

The Kuvasz is an intelligent dog who will benefit from training and socialization. It is always wise to have large dogs like this trained because just his size can cause problems if he isn’t obedient.

He is also described as a clownish type of dog which means he’ll entertain and amuse you. Certainly he is playful as a puppy but he calms down quite a bit as he grows into maturity. He is independent, and those who have owned such a dog report that he can be loving and loyal with his human family, wanting to guard and protect them. Others will say that he tended to be aloof, even with his human family.

Used as working dogs, the Kuvasz has learned to be independent and they will need a firm, strong owner who is also fair with them, otherwise they just do their own thing. They’re active dogs and because of their size they won’t suit city living where there is a tiny garden.

Characteristics

kai ken dog - characteristicsThe Kai Ken is a working- and hunting dog, so he is used to being active and will want a home where he can be played with and exercised regularly.

He can be slightly stubborn and independent so training and socialization are imperative. This is also because the dog’s curiosity and his athletic skills can lead to trouble if he isn’t properly trained.

Treat him the way he deserves and you’ll see that he is able to develop a strong bond with you and be altogether an excellent family pet.

kuvasz dog - characteristicsKuvasz are guarding dogs, they’re intelligent and loyal, making them excellent family dogs with the right training and socialization.

They’re able to get on well with other pets in the home as well as children. He is a beautiful dog and another bonus is that he isn’t particularly high maintenance.

As is common with many other large-breed dogs, he will have a shorter lifespan than what you’d get with a smaller dog breed, but if you feed him high quality food, exercise him and involve him in your activities, this large dog can become a wonderful friend and protector for you.

Health Problems

kai ken puppies - health problemsWith a lifespan of 14 to 16 years, and given the genetic purity of the Kai Ken, you aren't likely to battle with congenital health problems with your dog, but it is always good to be aware of certain minor health issues that he could succumb to.

He can suffer from a few common dog diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy or hip dysplasia.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This is a disease of the eye where there is wasting of certain parts, and in this case the cells of the retina develop abnormally. This can eventually lead to blindness. It’s an inherited disease that can occur in pure- and mixed breeds, and dogs with PRA shouldn’t be used for breeding.

It isn’t a painful condition, and the first symptom usually noticed in a dog is night blindness where you may notice him bumping into things at night and being reluctant to walk around in the dark.

kuvasz puppies - health problemsThe large Kuvasz is a healthy dog breed that with good care can reach 12–14 years of age. Being the large dog that he is, he may well be prone to bone and joint problems. It is why good nutrition is so important for this dog - feeding him the best food with vitamins and minerals.

You know the saying ...you are what you eat... and this applies to dogs too. Good food can help to ward off serious illnesses. Big dogs like this often have to contend with hip dysplasia which can be both painful and debilitating as well as eye diseases.

Entropion:

This is where the eyelid of the dog rolls inwards, causing irritation and pain for the dog. There is also Ectropion, where the eyelid rolls outwards.If you see your pet has a red eye which is watery and which has pus, visit your vet. Entropion surgery will correct and repair and condition.

Caring The Pet

kai ken dogs - caringEven though the coat is thick, the Kai Ken will require basic canine care, so a brush twice a week will be enough to keep the coat free of loose hair. He sheds more heavily a couple of times a year and then he will require more brushing.

He has always been used to hunt so he is a dog that will require regular exercise such as walks, hikes, swimming and ball games.

The nails of the dog should be trimmed regularly once they become long as long nails can be hazardous and can hook onto things, causing injury to the nail area.

The ears of the dog should be checked regularly for fleas and ticks, and teeth should also be brushed with canine toothbrush and toothpaste.

Grooming:

kuvasz dogs - caringThe coat may be fairly long and thick but it doesn’t require any special kind of grooming. A good brush twice a week will be adequate and will help with getting rid of stubborn knots and matting.

He is a seasonal shedder and this frequent brushing will make sure the coat remains groomed and shiny.

General Care:

The Kuvasz is a hardy breed who just loves the outdoors. He is a dog that doesn’t do well in the heat. Make absolutely sure that he has a cool, sheltered spot where he can lie down. Ensure that there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water available to him.

Diet:

There is quite a bit of conflict and controversy regarding nutrition in dogs. The idea is to keep it simple. If you buy a commercially manufactured dog food, check the ingredients on the packaging.

You want to be sure your pet is getting vitamins and minerals in instead of preservatives, fillers and colorants. Try and give him some home made food too such as some chicken, brown rice or pasta and some vegetables. You can mix this into his dry kibble occasionally with a little bit of raw meat too when you have.

Avoid feeding your dog things such as chocolates, nuts, onions, sweets and chips.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Kai Ken vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  5. Kai Ken vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Kai Ken vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Kai Ken vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Kai Ken vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Kai Ken vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Kai Ken vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Kai Ken vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Kai Ken vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Kai Ken vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Kai Ken vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Kai Ken vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Kai Ken vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Kai Ken vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Kai Ken vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Kai Ken vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Kai Ken vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Kai Ken vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Kai Ken vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Kai Ken vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Kai Ken vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Kai Ken vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Kuvasz vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Kuvasz vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Kuvasz vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Kuvasz vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Kuvasz vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Kuvasz vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Kuvasz vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Kuvasz vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Kuvasz vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Kuvasz vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Kuvasz vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Kuvasz vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Kuvasz vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Kuvasz vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Kuvasz vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Kuvasz vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Kuvasz vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Kuvasz vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Kuvasz vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Kuvasz vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Kuvasz vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Kuvasz vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Kuvasz vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Kuvasz vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Kuvasz vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison