Kishu vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Kishu vs Greenland Dog - Breed ComparisonKishu is originated from Japan but Greenland Dog is originated from Greenland. Kishu may grow 12 cm / 4 inches shorter than Greenland Dog. Kishu may weigh 8 kg / 17 pounds lesser than Greenland Dog. Both Kishu and Greenland Dog has same life span. Both Kishu and Greenland Dog has same litter size. Both Kishu and Greenland Dog 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.

greenland dog - historyThe Greenland dog is an ancient breed of dog hailing from Greenland. The dog was brought to North American from Siberia hundreds of years ago. In fact the very first dogs arrived in the Americas some 12,000 years ago.

The Greenland Dog isn’t recognized by the AKC but it is recognized by a number of other groups. While the Greenland Dog is valued in Greenland, it isn't particularly well known in other parts of the world.

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.

greenland dog puppy - descriptionThe Greenland Dog is a heavily built dog, and between the males and females, this medium to large sized dog can be 51 – 68cm in height and weigh 30 – 35kg.

He has the typical slanted eyes of the husky-type dogs with a keen, alert expression in them. He has small triangular erect ears. The long, bushy tail of the dog is curled over the back of the dog.

The coat is short to medium length and has 2 layers with the outer layer being fairly coarse. The double coat is thick and shortish but also stand-offish, meaning the hair doesn’t lie flat against the dog’s body. Color of the fur is a mix of cream, beige, white, tan, black, grey or silver.

Temperament:

As a working dog, the Greenland Dog is known for its strength, its boisterous nature and speed. Because its a dog that has worked as a pack, it wants a firm, patient, fair, confident owner to bring out the best in him. Being intelligent, independent and work-orientated, it is perhaps not a great choice for the first-time dog owner who may be out of their realm with the demands of these high-energy dogs.

The dog is independent, but he is quite capable of forming a strong, loving bond with his owner. This is certainly a dog that is never going to thrive if he has to lie around the house all day – he is an active dog who wants a task to do and he is going to need plenty of daily exercise.

They’ve always had active lives pulling sleds or hunting for seals and he craves this busy, active lifestyle. He is the kind of dog that shouldn’t live in the city with a tiny garden unless he has an owner who takes time to walk him and exercise him vigorously. He is a dog that will require training and socialization.

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.

greenland dog dog - characteristicsBred as a working dog, the Greenland Dog, native to Greenland is a high energy dog who is boisterous, lively and social. With training and socialization, he becomes an obedient, loyal and devoted pet.

While he is quite capable of being an awesome domesticated pet, he is essentially a working dog, loving having to be part of a very active lifestyle. He may not be the best pet for a first time owner or a home with small children. This is because he isn't your cuddly, lying-around-the-house, playmate kind of pet. He wants a home and owner similar to himself – strong, active, energetic, bold, independent, strong-willed and firm, and when he gets this, he becomes the splendid pet he is so well known for.

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.

Eye Disease:

greenland dog puppies - health problemsYour Greenland dog can battle with eye problems such as progressive retinal atrophy, hereditary or juvenile cataracts and corneal dystrophy. Eye diseases like this can cause a host of problems for your pet and should receive immediate veterinary attention.

Cataracts in dogs are a common problem affecting the eyes of dogs, with there being different forms and causes.The age at which your pet develops cataracts is important for identifying the type of cataract it is because it will give the vet an idea if the cataracts are an hereditary trait in certain dog breeds.

Hip Dysplasia:

Nearly every dog can battle with hip dysplasia and it can be a serious concern for active canines such as the Greenland dog.

This joint and bone ailment can start manifesting itself as early as 4 months of age with your pet. This dysplasia occurs when the head of the femur doesn't fit into the pelvic joint the way it should. It can lead to pain, arthritis and lameness with your dog.

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.

Diet:

greenland dog dogs - caringAs a medium- to large-sized dog breed, the Greenland Dog will require a high-quality commercial dog food if that is what you will be feeding him. The top quality brands have the right mix of vitamins and minerals in them for health.

However, it is wise to ensure that such an active dog breed gets his quota of raw meat in too. He has been used to eating fish and seal meat and will require this raw diet too. Sometimes if you cook rice, chicken and vegetables, you can add this into his kibble too.

He must never be without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

Greenland Dogs need to be groomed at least twice a week to keep the thick coat in tip top condition. He sheds throughout the year.

He will also require you brushing his teeth to get rid of plaque which can cause a host of health issues. You get special toothpaste and toothbrush for dogs. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week.

Exercise:

Make sure you give your high-energy Greenland Dog the right dose of exercise. He is intelligent too so he needs walks, games and other activities that contribute towards his physical and mental wellbeing.

He will do well on large properties or farms but won't do well where the space is tiny and where the owners are inactive couch potatoes.

Be careful too that the Greenland Dog isn't exercised immediately after eating as this puts him in danger of developing bloat.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Japan
Greenland
Height Male:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
51 - 68 cm
20 - 27 inches
Height Female:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
51 - 68 cm
20 - 27 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
30 - 35 kg
66 - 78 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
30 - 35 kg
66 - 78 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
10 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
4 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Kumano Ken, Kishu Ken
Greenland
Colors Available:
White, red or brindle
grey or silver, tan, beige, white, Mix of cream, black
Coat:
Short, straight and dense double-coat
Short to medium length, coarse, stand-offish
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate, Seasonal
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
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  2. Presa Canario vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  3. Labrador Husky vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  4. Mackenzie River Husky vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Pyredoodle vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Lurcher vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  7. Maremma Sheepdog vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Sarplaninac vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  9. Himalayan Mastiff vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  10. Mountain View Cur vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  11. Native American Indian Dog vs Greenland Dog - Breed Comparison
  12. Greenland Dog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  13. Greenland Dog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  14. Greenland Dog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  15. Greenland Dog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  16. Greenland Dog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  17. Greenland Dog vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  18. Greenland Dog vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  19. Greenland Dog vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  20. Greenland Dog vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  21. Greenland Dog vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  22. Greenland Dog vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  23. Greenland Dog vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  24. Greenland Dog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  25. Greenland Dog vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  26. Sakhalin Husky vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  27. Portuguese Water Dog vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  28. Puli vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  29. McNab vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  30. Porcelaine vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  31. Hokkaido vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  32. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  33. Pumi vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  34. Osterreichischer Kurzhaariger Pinscher vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  35. Russo-European Laika vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  36. Ryukyu Inu vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  37. Seppala Siberian Sleddog vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  38. Serbian Mountain Hound vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  39. Shiba Inu vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  40. Sulimov vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  41. Swiss Shorthaired Pinscher vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  42. Tahltan Bear Dog vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  43. Standard Schnauzer vs Kishu - Breed Comparison
  44. Kishu vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  45. Kishu vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  46. Kishu vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  47. Kishu vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  48. Kishu vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  49. Kishu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  50. Kishu vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds