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Nihon Ken (日本犬)
The Nihon Ken (日本犬), meaning “the Japanese dog,” encompasses Japan’s six native breeds: Shiba Inu, Akita Inu, Kishu Ken, Shikoku Ken, Hokkaido Ken, and Kai Ken. These breeds share a rich history, with ancestors inhabiting the Japanese archipelago for more than nine thousand years. Up until recently, they were collectively considered a single breed and categorized by size—small, medium, and large—under a unified breed standard.
Renowned for their intelligence, resilience, and loyalty, the Nihon Ken were traditionally bred as skilled hunters and steadfast companions. Their unique traits and deep-rooted cultural significance have made them beloved both in Japan and around the world, especially as the Shiba Inu and Akita Inu have risen in popularity.