Morkie vs Kishu - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Morkie vs Kishu - Breed ComparisonMorkie is originated from United States but Kishu is originated from Japan. Morkie may grow 26 cm / 10 inches shorter than Kishu. Morkie may weigh 21 kg / 46 pounds lesser than Kishu. Both Morkie and Kishu has almost same life span. Both Morkie and Kishu has almost same litter size. Morkie requires Low maintenance. But Kishu requires Moderate maintenance

History

morkie - historyThese cute little dogs originated in the United States. As a cross between a Maltese Poodle and Yorkshire Terrier, the idea of breeders was to bring out a gorgeous looking little dog that would be low shedding.

The Morkie Poo inherits this low shedding characteristic from the poodle side of things. It is not precisely clear as to when the first Morkie was born, but these days he is as popular as ever.

Certainly, both the parent breeds are recognized with kennel clubs but the Morkie isn’t.

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.

Description

morkie puppy - descriptionThe small Morkie is a crossbreed, and this means you can’t be 100% guaranteed of the dog’s looks. They usually stand at about 24 – 30cm in height and weigh between 4 and 6kg.

You also get the Teacup Morkie which is even smaller. The coat of the Morkie can become fairly long and is black, brown and tan.

Temperament:

This is a little crossbreed dog who simply loves spending time with his human family. He is loving and gentle and will get along well with other pets in the home as well as with children.

Some people are inclined to think that these little balls of fluff are a total walkover, but don’t be mistaken, as these cheeky, feisty dogs have attitude. They’re social and playful and love to be involved in games with the kids. Just make sure your children have been taught how to be gentle with a small dog like this.

He becomes very attached to his family and doesn’t want to be left alone for too long.

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.

Characteristics

morkie dog - characteristicsYour Morkie is such a sweet dog, and that’s to be expected, coming from such sweet parent breeds.

He just loves his human family and is friendly and social as well as being loyal. He has quite a bit of attitude, and if you allow it, he’ll develop some horrible small dog syndrome characteristics, such as being snappy, whiny and barking.

Small though he is, training and socialization will do him the world of good and he then lives up to everything wonderful that Morkie dog owners have got to tell you about– playful, friendly fun-loving, jaunty, loving and the cutest little thing there is.

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.

Health Problems

morkie puppies - health problemsAs a responsible dog owner it is to your benefit to be aware of some of the common dog illnesses that your Morkie can succumb too. Not that he is likely too, as with good care, these robust little dogs can live to be 15 years of age or so.

A dog's lifespan can certainly be impacted by the lifestyle they lead. Some of the common dog illnesses to look out for -

Parvo:

Parvo can be a killer, and that’s why your 8 week old puppy needs to have his parvo vaccination. You’ll find puppies in shelters and puppy mills that get parvo. Dogs contact parvo by coming into contact with an infected dog.

Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and weight loss. Quick medical treatment can save your dog but it is better to ensure he doesn't get it in the first place. Other diseases that require vaccinations are hepatitis, distemper and rabies.

Lyme Disease:

This is a tick-borne illness brought on by bacteria transmitted by deer ticks that attach to the dog. One of the symptoms is lameness in limbs and a loss of appetite. Without treatment, lyme disease can lead to kidney problems.

Bloat:

Prevent your dog getting bloat by ensuring he doesn’t get ravenous with one meal a day. He then wants to wolf his food down. Rather give him smaller meals that he eats slower to avoid bloat. The stomach swells and can actually twist. If your dog has an enlarged stomach, is restless, salivating and wanting to vomit, get him to the vet immediately.

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.

Caring The Pet

morkie dogs - caringThe Morkie is such a small dog so it won’t require much effort to brush him. Because the hair is thin and fine, you may want to brush him every day just to keep the silky hair from matting.

Many Morkie owners opt to have their Morkie’s trimmed at a professional dog parlor. Check around his eyes and check inside his ears to make sure both are clean and free from infection.

Little dogs always have trouble with their teeth, so make sure to check these regularly. Keep his nails trimmed too as if they grow long they can hook onto things and can cause injury.

Exercise:

The Morkie is an energetic little dog, but because he is small he isn’t going to require too much exercise. A walk now and then will delight him and some ball games indoors or outside. He is a dog that will settle happily into city- or country life, so long as he is with his beloved owner.

Diet:

Morkies love their food and they can tend to gobble it up. Rather give your Morkie smaller meals than one main meal as he wolfs it down, causing digestive problems.

If you feed him kibble, make sure the packaging is marked for little dogs and make sure its the best there is to ensure he gets the right amount of minerals and vitamins in.

As a treat boil some chicken, brown rice, pasta and vegetables and chop it up very finely and add it into his kibble from time to time.

Make sure your Morkie can easily reach his bowl of fresh, cool water.

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.

Basic Information

Group:
Toy dog
Working dog
Origin:
United States
Japan
Height Male:
24 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
Height Female:
24 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
4 - 6 kg
8 - 14 pounds
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
11 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
1 - 5
2 - 6
Size:
Toy dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Morkie Poo
Kumano Ken, Kishu Ken
Colors Available:
tan, cream, Brown, black
White, red or brindle
Coat:
Longish, straight or wavy
Short, straight and dense double-coat
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Morkie vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. Morkie vs Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  3. Morkie vs Havanese - Breed Comparison
  4. Morkie vs Chorkie - Breed Comparison
  5. Morkie vs Chinese Crested Dog - Breed Comparison
  6. Morkie vs Chiweenie - Breed Comparison
  7. Morkie vs Chug - Breed Comparison
  8. Morkie vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  9. Morkie vs Brussels Griffon - Breed Comparison
  10. Morkie vs Chipoo - Breed Comparison
  11. Morkie vs Chiapom - Breed Comparison
  12. Morkie vs English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan) - Breed Comparison
  13. Morkie vs Long Haired Chihuahua - Breed Comparison
  14. Morkie vs Bichon Bolognese - Breed Comparison
  15. Morkie vs Franzuskaya Bolonka - Breed Comparison
  16. Morkie vs Bugg - Breed Comparison
  17. Morkie vs Cockachon - Breed Comparison
  18. Pekingese vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  19. Russian Toy Terrier vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  20. Phalene vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  21. Shih Tzu vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  22. Silky Terrier vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  23. Snorkie vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  24. Toy Bulldog vs Morkie - Breed Comparison
  25. Toy Mi-Ki vs Morkie - 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