Overview
The Kawakami Inu is a medium-sized Japanese spitz-type dog from Kawakami Village in Nagano Prefecture. It is closely related to the Shiba Inu and is protected as a natural monument of the prefecture.
Legend says that hunters tamed wild wolves of the Chichibu Mountains, and the breed is said to be fearless enough to face opponents larger than itself.
History
Kawakami Village had harsh weather and mountainous terrain that suited hunting better than farming, and the dogs were bred for agile work on rocky ground. A visit by a government official in 1924 led to the dogs being declared a natural monument, and a preservation society followed.
The breed declined as hunting faded and Western dogs became popular, and it suffered again during World War II. Natural monument status was revoked in 1965 as numbers fell, then restored in 1983 after the villagers' efforts. The preservation society has faced controversy over pedigree issues.
Appearance
A medium-sized spitz about 35 to 45 cm at the withers, with a short, dense double coat. The face is more wolf-like than the Shiba Inu's, and the eyes are a dark reddish-brown.
Accepted colours are red, black, white and brown.
Temperament
Fearless, loyal and smart, it is not friendly to everyone and can be cautious or even aggressive towards strangers, which makes it a good watchdog. It is vocal and has a stubborn streak, and may misbehave if it does not respect its owner.
It is very energetic and has a strong homing instinct.
Care and exercise
This breed needs a lot of daily exercise and firm, consistent, respectful training from an experienced owner. It copes well with cold but not with heat or humidity, so it should not be kept in hot, humid places.
The short double coat needs regular brushing, especially during seasonal moults.
Health
The breed copes with extreme cold, down below minus 25 degrees Celsius, but does not do well in hot, humid conditions.
