Kishu vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Kishu vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed ComparisonKishu is originated from Japan but Croatian Sheepdog is originated from Croatia. Both Kishu and Croatian Sheepdog are having almost same height. Kishu may weigh 7 kg / 16 pounds more than Croatian Sheepdog. Both Kishu and Croatian Sheepdog has almost same life span. Both Kishu and Croatian Sheepdog has same litter size. Both Kishu and Croatian Sheepdog requires Moderate maintenance.

History

kishu - historyThe 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.

croatian sheepdog - historyKnown also as Hrvatski Ovkars, the black Croatian Sheepdog has been in Croatia since the 7th century already. He was brought to the region by Croats who wanted a strong working dog.

Over the centuries, the dog hasn’t changed much in looks, and in 1935 a breeding program for the dog was developed. A certain Dr. Romic started the program with 3 dogs, and the work he did with the dogs saw that the Croatian Sheepdog got official recognition a few decades later.

In March 1968, the Yugoslav Kennel Club adopted the breed standard, and since then, several kennels recognize the Croatian Sheepdog. The dog is still not known particularly well outside their own county, but in Croatia it is essentially known as a companion dog.

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.

croatian sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Croatian Sheepdog is a medium sized, muscular dog which stands roughly 40 – 53cm at the withers and weighs 13 to 20kg. The head is wedge shaped and lean and he has brown to black colored eyes.

The triangular-shaped ears are medium sized and semi-erect or erect. The tail of the dog is often docked, but if not it is set high and is inclined to curl over the back.

The dog is nearly always black although you’ll find a few white hairs on the throat or chest or on the legs and toes. The double coat is of medium length, being wavy or even slightly curly.

Temperament:

The Croatian Sheepdog is an athletic, alert dog and he has high energy levels, loving to be put to work or to be busy with one or other activity. He fits in well as a family pet and gets on well with children and pets in the home, but he is going to need plenty of exercise and games.

This particular dog won’t do well with a family of couch potatoes as he craves lots of activities. He will certainly benefit from training and socialization, and because he is intelligent he learns easily and then he is obedient and ready to please.

He is a dominant, confident dog who thrives on attention from his human family. He isn’t a dog you can just stick in the backyard as he is social and craves activity and attention. He is wary of strangers and makes an excellent watchdog.

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.

croatian sheepdog dog - characteristicsThe Croatian Sheepdog isn’t a demanding dog, although he will be relying on you to give him plenty of exercise. He wants to please and will fit into life in the city or life in the country, so long as he gets regular exercise.

It doesn’t take much to keep the Croatian Sheepdog happy and content, and when he thrusts his wet nose into your hand and you see his wagging tail, you’ll know its all been worth it to give this pet the best as he gives you his undivided love and loyalty.

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.

croatian sheepdog puppies - health problemsThe Croatian Sheepdog is a healthy dog breed. He is the kind of pet that won’t cost you a lot of money because he is low maintenance. In fact he is a dog which has developed resistance to many diseases.

With good food, exercise and love and care he won’t cost you much in terms of vet’s fees. He can live to be 12 to 15 years of age.

Even though he is a healthy kind of dog, there are some dog illnesses that you will want to be aware of such as bloat and eye problems. Also if you aren’t going to let him become a parent, then spaying or neutering your Croatian Shepherd will have numerous health benefits for him.

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.

croatian sheepdog dogs - caringThe Croatian Sheepdog has always been a working dog and is regarded as a hardy, low maintenance dog. He will require minimal grooming so a good brush twice a week will suffice.

Diet:

There are excellent and convenient dog foods on the market which have been specifically manufactured to ensure your dog gets all the vitamins and minerals he needs for health and energy. Stick to the feeding instructions on the label so that he maintains his lean, muscular body.

Raw meat can be expensive, but it will be to his benefit if you can include some raw meat into his kibble every now and then. If you are unsure in any way as to how to feed your dog, your vet can give you good advice on a food that caters for his age and his activity levels. Always make sure that he has a fresh bowl of water available.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
Origin:
Japan
Croatia
Height Male:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
40 - 53 cm
15 - 21 inches
Height Female:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
40 - 53 cm
15 - 21 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
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
4 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Kumano Ken, Kishu Ken
Hrvatski Ovkars
Colors Available:
White, red or brindle
Black
Coat:
Short, straight and dense double-coat
Medium length, wavy or curly
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
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, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Outgoing, Playful, Responsive, Social
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Sakhalin Husky vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  2. Portuguese Water Dog vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  3. Puli vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  4. McNab vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  5. Porcelaine vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  6. Hokkaido vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  7. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  8. Pumi vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  9. Osterreichischer Kurzhaariger Pinscher vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  10. Russo-European Laika vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  11. Ryukyu Inu vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  12. Seppala Siberian Sleddog vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  13. Serbian Mountain Hound vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  14. Shiba Inu vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  15. Sulimov vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  16. Swiss Shorthaired Pinscher vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  17. Tahltan Bear Dog vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  18. Standard Schnauzer vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  19. Kishu vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  20. Kishu vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  21. Kishu vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  22. Kishu vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  23. Kishu vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  24. Kishu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  25. Kishu vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  27. Dutch Shepherd vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  28. English Shepherd vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  29. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  30. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  31. Queensland Heeler vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  32. German Coolie vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  33. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  34. Croatian Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  35. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  36. Croatian Sheepdog vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  37. Croatian Sheepdog vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  38. Croatian Sheepdog vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  39. Croatian Sheepdog vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  40. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  41. Croatian Sheepdog vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  42. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  43. Croatian Sheepdog vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  44. Croatian Sheepdog vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  45. Croatian Sheepdog vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  46. Croatian Sheepdog vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  47. Croatian Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  48. Croatian Sheepdog vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  49. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  50. Croatian Sheepdog vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Laekenois) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds