The Kai Ken is one of Japan’s native spitz breeds – nicknamed “the tiger dog” because of their brindle coat. An active breed, they were originally used for hunting (primarily boar and deer) and today are happy to participate in a number of canine activities! Although only medium in size, this dog is bold and sassy with a confident nature. Neutral to strangers, they are nonetheless loyal with those whom they love. Temperaments can somewhat vary between individuals in the breed because diversity as well as function are highly prized so it is wise for a prospective buyer to meet dogs from the breeder to determine a good match. Take note – spitz breeds in general (and the Kai is no exception) are more primitive and are not the same as an outgoing, happy Lab. They all need early socialization in order to function well in the world!

The Kai Ken tends to get along with other dogs. Many of them are experts at reading canine body language and avoiding fights although this does depend on the individual and the amount of socialization he/she has had as a puppy. Many also get along well with cats and even smaller pets, although because of their high prey drive may chase those same animals if they dash around the home. It’s not recommended to allow outside play with cats and Kai. Along those same lines, this little spitz shouldn’t be let off-leash without extensive training in areas that might have woodland creatures suddenly appear (like squirrels)! They will chase after, swim after, and even climb trees after a running prey animal.

The Kai needs daily activity and exercise – both mental as well as physical. They have a lot of energy but their smaller size means the exercise requirements aren’t too hard to keep up with. When provided with proper exercise, good food and vet care the Kai tends to live 13-15 years. Most members of the breed are very healthy however health issues that can crop up include Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disorder), luxating patellas (slipped kneecaps) and heart issues. No breed or mix breed is immune to congenital health defects and this breed is no exception. With a purebred dog, however, it is easier to know what you might be up against and choose a breeder who health tests.

Kai have the capability to be over-achievers when it comes to training as they love to work with their owners! They are also very versatile and love to learn new things – especially if those things involve movement and excitement. Obedience can be exciting to them but they really love to participate in activities in which their owners are also “playing along”, such as agility. Kai have been seen dabbling in herding, barn hunt, conformation and even lure coursing! Perhaps even more so than many other breeds – the amount of dedication an owner/trainer has will highly influence their Kai’s results. Shoddy training and skipping steps will undoubtedly lead to frustration to both dog and owner. Some Kai are more independent and/or more assertive than others – these dogs need strong-willed owners.

The Kai Ken usually loves children when he is brought up with them – make sure the children are taught never to tease the dog and always supervise around young kids. When brought up right, he will form strong bonds with them – just as he does with the rest of the family (although he may form the strongest bond with only his favorite family member). Make sure he is given plenty of affection and allowed to live inside the house as he is a social animal who needs/thrives on attention.

Kais make good watchdogs and will often find a high place to survey “their territory”, whether it be a couch, windowsill or even table! Make sure to teach them what is acceptable and what is not acceptable to sit on. He will keep watch in any type of home, whether house or apartment (and yes, this dog can do quite well in an apartment as long as he is exercised regularly). Despite his small-ish size, he is very brave!

Kai Ken are a naturally clean breed that requires little grooming. They shed once or twice a year and tend not to have a doggy odor. The short double coat will require more brushing during shedding seasons. The thick, brush tail may require a little more work to groom but overall the coat is easy to keep up with. As with all dogs – nails, teeth and ear care are important to schedule regularly. These clean dogs also tend to housebreak extremely quickly!

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The German Spitz is an energetic and alert little breed that is loyal to his owner. Originally bred as a companions and watchdog, there are between 2-5 sizes of the breed (depending upon which kennel club one is referring to). According to the FCI, the Pomeranian and Keeshond are two members of the German Spitz “family”, although other kennel clubs consider these breeds separate. The American Eskimo Dog is sometimes considered to be a German Spitz as well, depending upon who you talk to. Here in America, all of these breeds are separate, or at least the current bloodlines are distinct from each other.

Despite his small size, the German Spitz is surprisingly sturdy and doesn’t seem to mind increment inclement weather as much as other dogs his size. He also tends to be fairly healthy and long-lived as long as his owners give him what he needs to stay fit. Eye problems and patella luxation are the most common maladies of the breed, although it is in the minority of members. Naturally distrustful of strangers, this breed makes a great watchdog. He does need socialization from early on in order to get along happily with new people.

German Spitz are easy to train for most owners as they are very intelligent. That said, they can be somewhat independent and if bored, may choose to “forget” what was taught. Don’t fall for their games! Use plenty of praise and encouragement but make sure to enforce commands that they already know and are refusing to do. Take note, these little spitz dogs can be a yappy breed and may need training to curtail their vocal nature. They are also prone to loudness (not to mention destructiveness) when they aren’t given enough to do. Therefore training will help these vocal dogs in two ways – by providing a necessary mental job as well as teaching them how to quiet on command.

While he doesn’t require extensive grooming, the German Spitz does need regular brushing a few times a week. This coat will shed about twice a year, during which time dog hair will be everywhere – quite a feat for a small dog! When not in shedding season, the shedding isn’t very bad. Bathing need only be done when he needs it, and the coat should never be shaved as this will change the texture of the hair as well as remove the insulating properties. Double coats protect against the heat as well as the cold, and this is accomplished as long as the dog is regularly brushed out. Yes, they do tend to do better in colder weather but a brushed out (to the skin) German Spitz will be much more comfortable in the heat than one that has been shaved.

The German Spitz is a medium energy dog that requires a medium amount of exercise. Luckily his small size means that a shorter walk will go a longer way toward fulfilling his exercise quota! He also loves to run and explore in fenced areas – just make sure the fence is secure as his curious nature means he may squish through small openings or holes. Mostly, this little spitz just enjoys going out and having adventures with his person. It helps him satisfy his curiosity as well as providing plenty of social interaction with his owner. These dogs crave time spent with their people and as such, should never live in homes where they spend too much time alone.

The German Spitz can live happily with children however it is vital that the kids can be gentle with dogs. Although sturdy for their size, this is still a smaller breed that nonetheless can get hurt by rough handling. They therefore do best in homes where kids are above toddler age and have been taught how to interact nicely. Other than this they are quite adaptable and they can work out in all types of home or apartment settings. Many live with other dogs in the family pack while others live as the sole dog of the household. Either can work, but make sure to socialize him while still a puppy if he is going to be living with another canine. He is more likely to enjoy living with a dog the same size as himself and possessing a gentle demeanor.

The Karelian Bear Dog, like most spitz breeds, has an independent temperament. This said, he is very faithful to his owner and brave in the face of danger. Originally bred to eagerly hunt bear and other large game (as obvious by his name), he is generally silent in the hunt until he finds and stops an animal. This is a persistent hunter who is said to have a high drive and a good sense of direction when out in the wilderness. He is tough and burly – medium sized and with a very thick black and white coat.

The Bear Dog doesn’t require very much grooming but his thick coat does need to be brushed out regularly. This goes double for any dog living in a hot climate (like here in Texas). While the breed prefers cold weather, he can live just fine in a hot environment as long as that thick undercoat is kept combed out so the skin can breathe. His mostly black coats also make him more prone to feeling the heat, so make sure he has plenty of shade and water. As long as he is kept from overheating, this is actually a very healthy breed with no huge health issues. Average lifespan is from 11-12 years.

Karelian males don’t always play well with other males – they can be territorial of their homes/possessions and prone to fighting. Furthermore, even some opposite-sex pairs will fight as well. Many owners find it hard to keep two dogs in the same household, or even one Karelian along with another pet! Sometimes harmony can be accomplished with massive socialization while the puppy is still young but it’s still a case-by-case basis. If the Karelian is the only dog in the household, he is generally calm in the house. When it comes to human strangers, he is aloof although generally not aggressive as long as he has been socialized, however some poorly bred or poorly raised members of the breed have been known to show aggression to people.

Because of their social nature, some Karelian Bear Dogs suffer from separation anxiety. Although these dogs love to be outside (and do well in homes that have large fenced yards), they shouldn’t be left in the backyard all day with no human contact. They need regular exercise with their owners and enough stimulation to keep them happy and entertained. This energetic working breed also needs a job to do, and without this can become difficult to own. Problem-barking, chewing stuff up, and otherwise destroying property both inside and outside are such examples… This is not an apartment breed, nor is it a good match for someone with no dog owning experience.

Karelians tend to be affectionate to members of their own family although aren’t known for being easy to train. This has nothing to do with intelligence – as they are quite smart – but has more to do with their high prey drives and independent natures. Be aware of their quirky senses of humor during training… and it might be good for you to develop one of your own if you are to train one! Along with patience, an owner/trainer must also be prepared to set out rules and enforce them – the dog can become rather dominant without it.

Bear Dogs are alert watchdogs who tend to be quiet in the home unless an intruder comes by, at which point they can be protective if necessary. A fenced yard is a necessity for owners of this breed – their territorial nature and aptitude for wandering can be a bad combination. Although the breed can do well with older kids… they may need to be carefully introduced to any new kids that come into the home. It is important to practice responsibility when owning this breed!

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The Swedish Lapphund is a clever spitz breed with a lively personality and barrel of energy packed into a medium-sized frame. Originally used to hunt and guard as well as herd reindeer, they have a ton of endurance and enjoy physical activity. These dogs are always alert to the goings-on of the household and tend to be quite affectionate toward “their people”. This breed is tough on the outside (when fighting wild animals, they rarely give up) while sweet on the inside (friendly to all they meet)!

The Swedish Lappie is versatile and courageous and can be kept in city environments provided that they are given enough exercise (if kept in an apartment, they will need hours of outside excursion time). When socialized as puppies, they don’t tend to care about loud noises such as honking cars, nor crowded places. It takes someone with a very specialized set-up and schedule to make city life work with a Lappie, but this social dog can thrive in the right situation – especially if allowed to take part in a city’s pet friendly accommodations. Take note, this spitz breed may be aloof toward strangers at first but tends to warm up quickly.

Swedish Lappies can either be easy or difficult to train- depending upon the skills and knowledge of the owner. On the one hand, they are very attentive to their owners and naturally enjoy having a job to do. On the other hand, like most spitz breeds, they can be stubborn and independent. A lot of patience is required, as well as being aware of the dog’s comfort level during the training process. Don’t use heavy-handed techniques but also refrain from giving in and bribing the dog. If planning to train the dog for competition, a sense of humor is recommended! Lappies can and do compete in dog sports such as agility, scent work, rally, herding trials, flyball and freestyle as well as obedience trials.

This is not a breed for people who sit around and watch tv all day – the Swedish Lapphund wants to do what their humans are doing and be involved in activities that let them use their bodies and minds. This means a mixture of play, exercise and work (training and trained tasks). When they are provided with this, they are very capable of “chilling time”… but they’d prefer not to chill all day. Some Swedish Lappies have a medium energy and others have a higher energy level – either way, all need at least one walk a day at the very minimum. Throwing the dog into the backyard isn’t enough, even if the yard is fenced – they don’t thrive when left to their own devices all day. A bored and under-exercised Lappie can become destructive.

Swedish Lappies can be a vocal breed, and especially love to bark to get their owner’s attention. Not only can they be loud, but their bark is often high-pitched (a trait that was helpful for reindeer to identify the dog as being a dog rather than a wolf, but the sound is less-than-ideal for many owners). Another trait that a prospective owner should consider before buying a puppy is that they shed quite heavily once or twice a year and the house will be simply covered in dog hair during this time! The breed should never be shaved, so an owner must also be willing to put in weekly brushing sessions in order to care for the coat all throughout the year.

Swedish Lapphunds come in either black or liver (with or without small white markings) – dark colors were favored so they were easy to see while working in the snow. The combination of the dark color with the long, thick nature of the coat means that they do very well in cold weather but need special supervision when outside in the heat. If keeping this breed in Texas, make sure to monitor them in the summer.

Swedish Lapphunds tend to love children and do well in homes with kids (although they may try to nip at heels and herd them). A faithful breed, they are natural guardians of their family although normally are better suited as watch dogs than all-out guard dogs. They also tend to get along well with other dogs, both in the home as well as out-and-about. Cats are also treated as friends in most circumstances.

The dignified Kishu Ken is one of Japan’s ancient spitz breeds. This quiet and loyal dog is medium-sized, smaller than the more well-known Akita but possessing the same noble air about him. Originally a boar-hunting breed, Kishu are high energy and capable of a lot of endurance which means they make great companions for active people who want a dog who can keep up. This said, with enough exercise they are fairly calm and unassuming in the house.

The Kishu is alert and has a high prey drive, which means he is apt to chase small animals that venture into the yard. Some can live with indoor cats (as long as they were raised with them), but that cat might become fair game if it gets outside! As a breed that was created to hunt, they also need regular, daily exercise. The exercise should be mentally engaging as well as physical – walks are good but a Kishu really should be taken out to new places on a regular basis so he can explore on leash. As such, this is a great hiking or hunting companion. A Kishu who isn’t given enough enriching activities may end up displaying bad behaviors such as problem-digging or even escaping the yard!

When it comes to brains, the Kishu Ken has a lot! These intelligent dogs are very capable of problem solving, a skill that can be just as awe-inspiring as it might be frustrating to live with. Obedience training is definitely recommended to use their brainpower “for good rather than mischief”, however they can be trickier than other breeds to motivate. They have an independent nature and often require an owner with experience training dogs. That said, when an owner or trainer finds what makes the individual dog motivated, they can be very driven and can make great obedience dogs! Just make sure to never use excessive force as it will not work with this breed.

Kishu Ken are social (with their families), active animals that prefer to do activities with their owners rather than staying home all day by themselves. They are affectionate dogs who don’t do well locked in a crate or backyard. They also much prefer their owners to strangers and aren’t fans of strange dogs either (which means they aren’t great candidates for doggie daycare). They may or may not get along with other household dogs, depending on the temperament of the dog. As a dominant breed, they can get into hierarchy battles with other dominant dogs. They also may be apt to go after tiny dogs because of their prey drive. They do get along well with children as long as they were raised with kids.

Kishu shed moderately but only need minimal grooming. Their coat doesn’t tend to hold onto dirt, and mud will often dry and fall off. They should receive baths and brush-outs when needed, as well as regular ear and nail care, but overall they are a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Twice a year, their undercoat will shed and they will need to be brushed a little more frequently. These often-clean dogs are also easily housebroken.

When not out on an adventure, the Kishu prefers to relax and survey his home. Many love to find a high perch to do this from, such as the back of the couch. While they enjoy watching, they don’t always make the best watchdog, however, as they bark only infrequently. As might be inferred from their energy levels, they don’t tend to thrive in apartment settings and especially don’t do well if living in a kennel run all day.

Although Kishu Ken puppies may look like teddy bears, this is a courageous and strong-willed breed. Without rules and boundaries put into place from day one, many will try to rule the roost! As mentioned above, obedience training as well as regular outlets for them to do fun things in a structured way are vital for this breed. Some examples of structured outlets include agility, obedience, herding, lure coursing, barn hunt and rally.

The Kishu is a loyal, devoted breed that doesn’t do well when moved from family to family. If you are a prospective owner, make sure that this is the breed for you before you commit to buying one – this is an 11-13 year commitment! Because of their quirks, people who have never owned a dog before may want to think twice. If this is the breed for you, be prepared to wait – this breed is rare both in the United States as well as Japan, and litter sizes tend to be small.

Photo By CJ Hammond

The Siberian Husky was bred as an endurance sled dog – pulling people and supplies across the snowy banks of Siberia. In later years they were used for sled races and prized for their speed and durability in harsh weather conditions. They were bred to work a lot on only a small amount of food, which means they are easy keepers as far as feeding. Despite being specialists in the field of pulling, they are actually quite versatile with their talents and are able to adapt to many different jobs and lifestyles (as long as they are given things to do).

Siberians can be eager to please yet supremely independent when it comes to obedience training. They are very intelligent… but not always the easiest dogs to train. This said, obedience is absolutely recommended in order to create a better relationship between owner and dog, as well as to circumvent behavior problems from cropping up. As well as general mischievousness, both chewing and digging are two very common behavior problems for Sibes that can be mitigated by training. Along with obedience, owners can choose to also train the dog in pulling sports (such as sledding, skijoring or carting). It is quite possible to train the dog to differentiate between walking politely on a leash as well as pulling when on a harness – and lucky dogs get to do both!

The Sibe has a unique temperament that people seem to either love or hate. They are affectionate when they want to be (without being too in-your-face), but also have a strong independent side. Friendly with everyone, whether family or stranger, they don’t make the greatest guard dogs and therefore cannot be relied upon to protect the house. That said, they make very loving family pets and tend to treat everyone equally (rather than choose one person whom is their favorite). Many Sibes enjoy being around, and playing with, children. Mature individuals can be fairly gentle as long as they were raised with kids. With other dogs, they tend to be friendly and cordial although housemates of the same sex may fight for pack hierarchy.

The Husky prey drive is almost famous, even among those who do not own one of these dogs. Many people have tales of them catching and dispatching of small animals – both wild as well as domesticated. This includes not only squirrels, rabbits, family “pocket pets” and birds… but also cats. Not every Husky is a cat-killer, and many live happily with their feline companions, however the breed’s high prey drive means that one must be extra careful. Choose a puppy from a line that has lower prey drive, socialize the puppy very early, and make sure the cat doesn’t dash through the house… and you will lower the chances of an injured kitty.

The Siberian Husky tends to have little to no doggy odor as he keeps himself meticulously clean. While he will still need occasional baths (especially if he gets caught in the mud), his coat is easier to care for than many other breeds. He doesn’t require any special trimming or clipping in order to look his best, just a weekly brushing for his thick double coat, plus regular nail care. He also doesn’t shed year-round like some breeds. That said, when he sheds – he really sheds! An owner will be surprised by just how much hair will need to be brushed out of the dog during shedding season.

Because they were bred to run, this is one of the Sibes’ absolute favorite pastimes! As such, every Sibe should be allowed to do so on a regular basis, although it must be in a fenced area because of their aforementioned high prey drive. Without this protection they are at a great risk of being hit by a car. For the same reason, the breed should always be kept on-leash as well. Off-leash training is possible, but an owner must be prepared to spend more time getting there and utilizing more distraction training than with other breeds. Even still, there is never a 100% guarantee that the dog still won’t bolt under the right set of circumstances and it is wise to always have a back-up fence encompassing the dog.

Siberians are extremely social animals and need to have the company of other people or animals at all times. They tend to do horribly in situations where the owner is at work all day, but some can put up with it if they have another dog to hang out with. This breed also prefers to spend his time alternating between indoors and outdoors, but the fenced backyard must be escape-proofed as this breed will think nothing of digging under or hopping over in order to fulfill their adventurous side! They are said to be the best escape artists of all breeds. As such, it’s usually a bad idea to keep a Sibe outside all the time without supervision and/or a Fort Knox-esque setup.

The Husky has a reputation for being super active, and indeed he is! These athletes need a lot of exercise every day in order to stay physically and mentally sound. A short walk will not cut it with this breed – instead he needs to jog, bike, or any other activity that will really put his muscles to work. As a working breed, this spitz also needs to have a job to do – ideally that he can do with his owner. It is very possible for a creative owner to combine these two needs into one. If these needs are not met, the breed can be downright a downright spaz in the house, as well as being uber destructive to the belongings inside (and outside) the house! This normally quiet breed can also turn into a problem howler.

The Chinook is an American breed, and the state dog of New Hampshire. They were originally created to pull sleds with a team of other dogs. These are hard-working dogs with plenty of endurance and power, along with the versatility to handle all sorts of jobs and tasks asked of them. Loyal, affectionate and playful, yet possessing a gentle nature, they make fantastic companions to boot! The breed is healthy and tends to live from 12-15 years. When health issues do crop up, the most likely issues are hip dysplasia, seizures and eye disease.

Chinooks are intelligent and easy to train. They are also more reliable off-lead than other sled dogs, although still must be trained to follow commands off-lead. Like all strong dogs with a propensity to pull, however, obedience training is a necessity. Perhaps surprisingly, they are fairly sensitive and do best with lots of positive reinforcement. Once trained, this large breed excels not only in obedience, but also in venues such as carting, agility, herding, and of course sledding. Some even go on to participate in therapy work or search and rescue!

When in the house, the Chinook is fairly laid-back as long as he gets enough exercise (both physical and mental). As might be imagined of a sled dog, this breed has a lot of energy that must be channeled into appropriate venues. He also must have an ongoing job to do so he doesn’t become bored. Jogging, backpacking, skijoring, camping and hiking are great examples of activities that will help fulfill a Chinook both mentally as well as physically. Of course, he’d also make a great sledding dog… if not for the decided lack of snow in Texas. Suffice it to say a half-hearted walk down the street probably won’t be enough.

Many Chinooks are friendly and outgoing to strangers, although aren’t inclined toward insanely-hyper friendliness. They are often polite and reserved until they get to know the person, and then quick to become friendly after that point. Some can be shy if not socialized early. Their general fondness for people means that they make poor watchdogs and very poor guard dogs. They also get along very well with children, other dogs and family pets including cats and livestock, particularly when socialized to these things from an early age. Some intact males don’t get along with other intact males, but this can sometimes be curtailed with… yet again, early socialization. Socialization is key to make sure they will be able to handle new people and animals with ease.

While not known for being a loud or “barky” breed, many Chinooks are vocal, whiney and talkative, and enjoy voicing their opinions. They can and do howl when excited, but this is normally only in short bursts. While a content Chinook with his needs met isn’t normally too loud, one that is left alone for long periods of time could turn into a problem barker – this breed can suffer from separation anxiety. Their great need to be around people means they make poor companions for those that work all day, and many owners of Chinooks find they need to take their dog with them to work.

While Chinooks are an official AKC breed, they are one of the rarest in the kennel club. As such, a person who is looking to own one might need to wait a bit in order to get the puppy of their dreams (be prepared to wait 6 months to 2 years). This wait might be even longer if they have their heart set on a particular ear set. Chinooks come with three different types of ear sets: down, prick or helicopter (flying out to the sides), although they won’t settle into their permanent position until after they have finished teething!

Although the Chinook has an easy-to-care-for short coat, he does shed heavily twice a year. In all other times of the year, he will shed minimally but fairly constantly. The double coat requires regular brushing and infrequent bathing in order to stay clean and healthy, and to keep shedding to a minimum. In addition to coat care, Chinooks need regular nail trims and tooth care.

Chinooks are hard-wired diggers and many owners have a hard time training this trait away. They don’t normally dig to escape but rather to create craters to lay in throughout the yard. This is but one of many reasons why the breed should never live outside – the biggest being that they are far too social for an isolated, outside life. Chinooks are able to live in apartments as long as they get tons of exercise daily, but a house with a yard is the ideal situation for both owner and dog. Many breeders prefer that the owner has a fenced yard, and discourage electronic fences because the Chinook’s high pain tolerance means he might just run right through it.

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