Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Kishu - Breed Comparison

Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Kishu - Breed ComparisonKishu is originated from Japan but Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Kishu may grow 6 cm / 3 inches higher than Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. Kishu may weigh 7 kg / 16 pounds more than Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. Both Kishu and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has almost same life span. Both Kishu and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier has almost same litter size. Both Kishu and Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
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Japan
United Kingdom
Height Male:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
43 - 50 cm
16 - 20 inches
Height Female:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
43 - 50 cm
16 - 20 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
13 - 20 kg
28 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
13 - 20 kg
28 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
2 - 8
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Kumano Ken, Kishu Ken
Wheaten, Wheatie
Colors Available:
White, red or brindle
tan, gingerish, Fawn, wheaten
Coat:
Short, straight and dense double-coat
Soft, silky, wavy to curly
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

kishuThe Kishu is a Spitz type hunting dog that originates from Japan. Many people believe he is a descendant of the wolf. Those who have studied the dog say that it has kept its genetic purity and that there has been very little cross breeding with other dogs.

The Kishu is also known as the Kumano Ken, a name given after the area the dog originated from. The breed was officially recognized and standardized in 1934, and is known as the Kishu Ken. In 1934 the dog was also designated a Living Natural Monument in Japan and is protected by law.

The dog is also included in the group ‘Asian Spitz and Related Breeds’ class of primitive dogs.

soft coated wheaten terrierThis wheaten colored terrier hails from Ireland. Although the Wheaten has been around for a long time, it was in 1937 that he was recognized as a breed in Ireland.

The British Kennel Club also recognized the Wheaten and the dog was also exported to the United States. Serious interest started being shown for the Terrier in the 1970s. It was in 1973 that they were recognised by the American Kennel Club.

Description

kishu puppy - descriptionThe Kishu is a medium sized dog standing between 43 – 56cm in height and weight is between 14 – 27kg.

He has a short, straight double coat which can be white, red or brindle. The dog has minimal shedding, making him an easy dog to groom.

The nose of the dog is black, but particularly with the white coated dogs, the nose can be brownish or pink in color. The ears are erect and pointed forwards and the tail is carried slightly curved over the dog's back.

Temperament:

The docile Kishu is no pushover and he is a strong minded, courageous dog. He is also an amicable dog breed, getting on well with his human family as well as with other dogs in the home.

He is somewhat aloof and reserved around strangers. Even though he is a docile dog, it is a good idea to have him trained and socialized so that he can be obedient and balanced in all situations.

He is intelligent and learns easily. An interesting aspect with the Kishu Ken is that he likes to take in everything going on from a vantage point, often seeking out a higher spot from where he can look about.

Kishu Kens like to keep an eye on whatever is going on, and sometimes he looks for a high place so that he can survey everything. They can be aloof or shy around strangers.

soft coated wheaten terrier puppy - descriptionThe Wheaten is a medium sized dog standing at between 43 and 50cm and weighing between 13 and 20kg both male and female. The coat of the dog is soft, silky and wavy to even curly and is a wheaten to ginger color.

The coat of the puppy is dark but as he grows up it changes into the wheaten color although the ears may be a dark brown color. Pet owners like that the Wheaten is a very low shedding dog.

Temperament:

Playful, social and friendly, the Wheaten has always been put to good use on the farm. These days he is pet and companion. He is energetic and playful so children love having him around.

He is slightly more hyper and energetic than other Terrier breeds so will require a good dose of exercise.

He is smart and strong willed, and training and socialization turns him into an amicable pet to have around, so much so that he is sought after as a therapy-dog.

They’re easy-going dogs with no aggression issues but they still make great watch dogs and want to do whatever it takes to look after- and protect their human family.

Characteristics

kishu dog - characteristicsThe Kishu is a hardy dog breed known for his exceptional hunting instincts and loyalty. He is a brave, clever, playful, tenacious dog eager to please his master.

He isn’t so much a hunting dog anymore but is essentially a companion dog, bonding closely with his human family. He will get on well with children and pets in the home, but more so when he has been trained and socialized.

Apart from making a splendid companion, the Kishu promises to be an excellent guard dog to anyone who threatens his human family.

soft coated wheaten terrier dog - characteristicsThe Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier has always made an excellent farm dog, but today he is more suited as pet and companion.

He adapts easily to life in the city or the countryside. Wherever he is, he will need his exercise. He also longs to be an active part of his human family, and then he’s happy, lively, social and friendly and is a great playmate for children.

He also gets on well with other dogs and will make you a fantastic family pet.

Health Problems

kishu puppies - health problemsBefore you bring a new puppy or rescue dog into your home, you must be prepared for the responsibility of a dog. If you're just simply looking for a watchdog to stick into your backyard, you're being cruel.

A dog is a social creature and you need to spend time with them and care for them. Sometimes he can get sick and then you may need to get him to the vet.

Some of the illnesses your Kishu can get will be easily treatable, while others may be life-threatening and require surgery.

The health of your dog will depend a lot on the food you provide it with as well as your lifestyle. Common dog health problems can range from typical eye- and ear infections to bloat, hip dysplasia and cancers.

Hypothyroidism:

The thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone which can lead to other health problems such as tiredness and weight gain. A daily thyroid pill from the vet can help sort this issue out.

Arthritis:

This is a common health problem, seen more in older dogs. Your once active dog will move around slower and battle to stand up after lying down.

Arthritis can’t be cured but you can alleviate the pain and suffering. Your vet will tell you that diet and nutrition are important factors to ward off arthritis in the first place.

If your dog has arthritis and is in pain, get him to your vet who can prescribe medications to alleviate the symptoms.

Kennel Cough:

This is a respiratory infection which can be transmitted from one dog to another. You’ll notice coughing, tiredness, runny nose and watery eyes and loss of appetite. Take him to your vet who will know what to do to speed up recovery for your pet.

soft coated wheaten terrier puppies - health problemsWhen you bring a Wheaten Terrier into your home, you’re not likely to have too many vet fees as he tends to be a healthy dog breed, being able to reach 13, 14 or 15 years of age with good care.

Look out for a dog ailment known as Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). This is a condition where the dog isn’t able to properly absorb protein in the digestive tract, so that it is passed in their stools.

It can be fatal, but if caught early, some dietary changes can keep it under control.

Also, look out for inflammatory bowel disease. This disease occurs when the stomach of the dog has a large number of inflammatory cells which can change the lining of the digestive tract, preventing the normal absorption of food.

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

kishu dogs - caringThe Kishu will need to be brushed twice a week to keep the coat free of dust and loose hairs. Their ears should be checked regularly too for wax build up and dirt as ear infections are a common dog illness.

Their nails should also be trimmed regularly. Take him regularly to have his teeth cleaned because dental problems can put his entire body at risk for disease.

Exercise:

The Kishu needs a good sized garden to roam. He is best suited to country life because he needs regular exercise. If he lives in the city, put him on a leash and take him for walks.

Diet:

Apart from exercise, good food is imperative as nutritious food contributes to longevity. Top quality food and the right size portions can ensure lean, energetic, happy, healthy dogs.

Take trouble to understand the ingredients listed on the commercial dog food packaging. Generally the low quality, processed commercial foods are inflammatory.

Even if you go for the top brand kibble, don’t just provide your pet with dry kibble night after night. Mix in some cooked chicken, brown rice and vegetables.

Remember too, that fresh whole foods such as vegetables have live enzymes and are packed full of fiber which is so necessary for digestion. A good diet with fresh, cool water is guaranteed to provide an excellent dimension to your pet’s health.

Grooming:

soft coated wheaten terrier dogs - caringBrush your pet’s silky coat twice a week. Such a silky coat can get all tangled and matted. If you prefer, many people opt to rather have the Wheaten’s coat professionally clipped as then it is easier to handle. They like to have the hair clipped that hangs over the dog’s eyes.

Other grooming tasks require you to check inside his ears for redness which could indicate an infection. Trim his nails and check him over for ticks and fleas.

Training:

Have your Wheatie trained and socialized as he is a stubborn dog breed and you want him to be well mannered and obedient.

Exercise:

Terriers like this are energetic dogs and he is going to need exercise every day. A walk for a dog is always a welcome experience as it gives him the opportunity to sniff around and pick up new smells. Play ball- or frisbee games with him as this can tire him out a bit.

Veterinary Care:

If your dog shows signs of illness, get him to the vet. He is such a feisty dog that it can be unbearable to see him out of sorts.

Diet:

Terriers are energetic dogs so if you feed your dog one of the commercial dog foods, make sure the label indicates what food it is. This is because the foods are manufactured according to the type of dog it is, its age, size and energy levels.

Always try and go for the high quality foods which don’t have all those unhealthy ingredients in them. Try to include some home-made food – nothing exotic and spicy – just plain, wholesome food that won’t upset his stomach.

Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots is super tasty and nutritious. You can chop it up and add it to your pet’s kibble twice a week.

Try and include a little bit of raw meat to his diet occasionally as this can go towards ensuring he doesn’t get skin diseases. Always ensure he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water available.

Comparison with other breeds

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