Kishu vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

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

greek harehound - historyKnown also as the Hellenic Hound, the Greek Harehound is an ancient breed, and it is a dog which has come down through the ages with very little change to the way he looks.

The ancestors of the Greek Harehound go back thousands of years and are believed to be the ancient ‘Laconikoi’ dogs of the Peloponnese.

In was in 1996 that the Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized the Hellenic Hound. The Greek Harehound was also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2006.

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.

greek harehound puppy - descriptionThese dogs have a short, dense coat which is black and tan in color. He is a medium sized, well proportioned, deep chested dog standing at roughly 47 – 55cm in height and weighing between 17–20kg.

His legs are straight, well boned and strong. The skull of the dog is fairly flat, the eyes are brown while the ears are set high and are floppy. The tail is long, tapering down to a tip.

Temperament:

Lively and outgoing, the Greek Harehound is a skilled, brave hunter. These are active dogs and will require quite a bit of exercise if you get one as a pet. He becomes devoted to his owner, making a good, all-round family pet.

He has always been used in the past to hunt in packs so he gets on well with any other dogs in the family.

As a scenthound, the Greek Harehound is an independent, stubborn, strong-willed dog that will respond well to a firm, strong owner. His stubborn, strong-willed nature means it will be important to have him trained and socialized so that he becomes a well-rounded, obedient pet.

If you're looking for a true around-the-house family pet, this isn't the ideal choice as he is essentially a hunting dog, wanting to be running off on a hunt as opposed to lying quietly indoors. He is therefore better suited to life in the country than being cooped up in a small city property.

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.

greek harehound dog - characteristicsFast, courageous, smart, playful, independent and strong willed, the Greek Harehound is a slow maturing breed and he will require training and socialization to make him obedient and not so stubborn.

Once trained he becomes a truly wonderful companion, being affectionate, loyal and outgoing. He makes a good friend of children too.

He is friendly and non-aggressive, though he still makes a good watchdog. He is a low maintenance pet too, and even though he is essentially a hunting dog, he can make anyone a splendid 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.

greek harehound puppies - health problemsThe Greek Harehound is a healthy dog breed with no particular genetic defects. But like other dogs with floppy ears, they are more prone to infections and the insides of the ears will need to be cleaned frequently. Always do this with the utmost care to avoid damaging your pet's ears.

He is a deep chested dog and this puts him at risk of gastric dilation and volvulus which is commonly referred to as bloat. Its a life threatening health issue where the stomach can twist. The stomach is sealed off as a result and gas builds up. The dog can go into organ failure.

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.

Exercise:

greek harehound dogs - caringThe Greek Harehound is happiest when he senses he is free to follow scents and run. This is why this particular dog breed isn’t suited for life in the city where he has a small garden. He requires large pieces of ground to run free. If you own one of these dogs, he should be taken on daily walks and be involved in lots of sporting activities and games. If you’re a jogger or cyclist, this dog will be thrilled to join you.

Grooming:

Dog owners love that this dog is a low maintenance breed. The short coat simply requires a brush twice a week to rid him of loose hairs and to also keep his coat shiny and healthy.

Vaccinations:

Every new puppy will require a series of vaccinations in his first year to make sure he doesn't develop some of the serious dog diseases there are such as distemper, parvo-virus and rabies among others.

Diet:

Dogs are carnivores and without human interference have always eaten fresh meat in the wilds. For convenience many people feed their dogs commercially manufactured food.

There are some excellent brands. Choose the best one for your pet and mix in raw meat from time to time as well as cooked rice, chicken and vegetables.

Never leave your pet without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Japan
Greece
Height Male:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
47 - 55 cm
18 - 22 inches
Height Female:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
47 - 55 cm
18 - 22 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
17 - 20 kg
37 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
47 - 20 kg
103 - 45 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
2 - 8
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Kumano Ken, Kishu Ken
Hellenic Hound
Colors Available:
White, red or brindle
Black with tan markings
Coat:
Short, straight and dense double-coat
Short and smooth
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, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low 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. Sakhalin Husky vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  27. Portuguese Water Dog vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  28. Puli vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  29. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  30. McNab vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  31. Porcelaine vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  32. Griffon Nivernais vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  33. Hokkaido vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  34. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  35. Pumi vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  36. Griffon Fauve de Bretagne vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  37. Istrian Sheepdog vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  38. Jamthund vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  39. Karelian Bear Dog vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  40. Karelo-Finnish Laika vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  41. Kintamani vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  42. Osterreichischer Kurzhaariger Pinscher vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  43. Russo-European Laika vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  44. Ryukyu Inu vs Greek Harehound - Breed Comparison
  45. Greek Harehound vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  46. Greek Harehound vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  47. Greek Harehound vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  48. Greek Harehound vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  49. Greek Harehound vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  50. Greek Harehound vs Aidi - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds