The Kai Ken (甲斐犬, Kai-ken, Kai-inu [1], also called the Tora Inu or Tiger Dog) is a breed of dog native to the Kai region, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, [2] where it is a national monument. It is a rare dog even in its native land and is one of the six native Japanese dog breeds protected by the Nihon Ken Hozonkai .

Is the Kai Ken the right breed for you? Learn more about the Kai Ken including personality, history, grooming, pictures, videos, and the AKC breed standard.

Jan 7, 2025 · The Kai Ken is a medium-sized and rare dog known for their athletic, muscular build and mix of German shepherd and wolf-like features.

Mar 4, 2025 · The Kai Ken is an intriguing Japanese dog breed with a medium-sized build and a “wolf-like” appearance. Learn more interesting facts about this dog breed here.

The Kai Ken, a medium-sized breed from Japan, is renowned for its unique tiger-stripe brindle coat and unwavering loyalty.

All of this perfectly describes a Kai Ken in a nutshell – an agile, independent and intelligent dog breed. Size wise, a Kai Ken is neither too big, nor too small. It is in between, with pointed ears, a fluffy tail and sharp instincts.

Is a Kai Ken your perfect match? Get answers to your Kai Ken questions on characteristics, temperament, history, and health with our Kai Ken guide.

Aug 20, 2014 · These dogs hail from Japan where, even in their native land, they are still considered fairly rare. What makes these dogs unique is the tiger-like stripes that adorn their coats in various shades. There are two variations of the Kai Ken – the shishi-inu-gata type and the shika-inu-gata type.

Dec 25, 2023 · Kai Kens are adorable dogs that are native to Japan, specifically the Kai region of the country. While its official name is the Kai Ken, you might also know this breed as a tiger dog, Tora inu, or Kai-inu. They get this name from being a medium-sized dog with stripes that sometimes resemble a tiger.

Jan 18, 2025 · The Kai Ken is one of the most respected dog breeds in Japan. As one of only six native breeds to receive protection in Japan, these dogs were bred to hunt deer, bear, boar, and the Japanese serow. Their ability to handle the steep mountain terrains made them great for this.