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🐶 Dog · size Medium

Kai (dog)

dog breed

Photo · Wikipedia FR (CC BY-SA)

Weight

5–30 kg

Size

Medium

Lifespan

11–14 ans

Energy

Très élevé

Coat

Bringé noir, bringé rouge ou bringé

Maintenance

Élevé

Training

Moyen

The Kai, also called Kai Tora-ken (甲斐犬), is a dog breed originating from Japan of spitz type with brindle coat. It is a very rare breed.

Profile

At a glance

Energy

Très élevé

Trainability

Modéré

Maintenance

Élevé

Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.

⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds

L'essentiel

  • 1Medium size (5-30 kg) — balance between presence and practicality.
  • 2Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years on average, depending on hygiene and diet.
  • 3Very high energy level — plan for 1.5+ hours of daily exercise minimum.
  • 4Regular grooming — brushing 3 to 5 times per week.

Chapter 1

Getting to know the Kai (dog)

Origins & history

A story told

This breed derives its origin from medium-sized dogs that once existed in Japan. It established itself in the Kai province. The pronounced tendency of the Kai to hunt in packs may have helped to preserve the purity of the breed. The breed was declared a 'Natural Monument' in 1934.

Character

Daily temperament

The temperament is described as keen and very alert in the breed standard.

Physical

Breed standard

The Kai is a medium-sized dog, well-proportioned. It is of robust build with well-developed musculature. The limbs are vigorous and the hocks are particularly well developed. The eyes are fairly small, almost triangular in shape and dark brown in color. Slightly larger than those of other Japanese breeds, the triangular ears slightly inclined forward are medium in size, firmly erect. The thick tail is strongly curled or carried curved over the back in a sickle shape. The tip of the tail almost reaches the level of the hock when lowered. The topcoat is rough and straight, short with a soft and dense undercoat. The accepted colors are black brindle, red brindle or brindle. Puppies are born solid-colored and become brindle as they grow: this is a characteristic trait of the breed.

What if you adopted your future companion?

The Kai (dog) of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of kai (dog) (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.

Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.

Âge

What human age for a kai (dog) ?

The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 11–14 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.

3 years
Birth22 years
Adult size

10 à 22 kg — a giant dog ages significantly faster than a small dog after maturity.

Equivalent human age

29years

Adulte

Most stable period. Monthly weigh-in, annual vet visit, dental care — this determines quality of life in later years.

Method: AVMA table: 15 human years in year one, +9 in year two, then +5 per year for a moyen dog.

These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.

Alert

To avoid for dog

Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.

  • low-fat cocoa powderModerate
  • maltitolModerate
  • cocoa pasteModerate
  • onion piecesModerate

Calculator · daily ration

How much to give a kai (dog) ?

Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for dog. Adjust according to package recommendations.

18 kg
5 kg33 kg
Moderate

Result

221 g

per day · 839 kcal

111 g / repas (2 par jour)

Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.

For an exact calculation for your Kai (dog) (breed, age, allergies, health conditions): create a free account

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Kai (dog)

Is a Kai (dog) suitable for apartment living?+
This depends on the individual dog: its size requires space and exercise, provided its daily activity needs are met.
How much exercise per day for a Kai (dog)?+
1.5 to 2 hours of daily activity minimum, ideally with mental stimulation (play, tracking, canine sports).
What is the life expectancy of a Kai (dog)?+
Between 11 and 14 years on average. Appropriate diet, regular veterinary care, and exercise contribute to a longer life.
Is a Kai (dog) good with children?+
This depends on the individual dog: early socialization and mutual respect are key. Never leave a young child alone with any animal, regardless of breed.

If you like this dog

Breeds with similar profiles

For more information

Sources & official links

Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.

The right score for your Kai (dog).

SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.