Queensland Heeler vs Kai Ken - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Queensland Heeler vs Kai Ken - Breed ComparisonKai Ken is originated from Japan but Queensland Heeler is originated from Australia. Both Kai Ken and Queensland Heeler are having almost same height. Both Kai Ken and Queensland Heeler are of same weight. Both Kai Ken and Queensland Heeler has almost same life span. Both Kai Ken and Queensland Heeler has almost same litter size. Kai Ken requires Moderate Maintenance. But Queensland Heeler requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Herding dogs
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Japan
Australia
Height Male:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Height Female:
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
43 - 51 cm
16 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
14 - 22 kg
30 - 49 pounds
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 22 kg
30 - 49 pounds
15 - 22 kg
33 - 49 pounds
Life Span:
14 - 16 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 7
1 - 5
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Tiger Dog, Tora Inu
Australian Cattle Dog, Blue Heeler
Colors Available:
Brindle color in black or red shade
mottled blue, Red speckled. Black and tan coloring , Blue
Coat:
Medium length and coarse
Short, double coat
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

kai kenThe Kai Ken dog hails from Japan and is both an ancient and rare dog. In fact the dog was discovered in 1929 in the Kai province near Mount Fuji. The dog has the nickname Tora Inu in Japan which means 'Tiger Dog'. Maybe its got to do with the brindle striped coat or his bravery.

He falls into the working class category. In 1931, the Kai Ken Aigokai registry was formed to preserve the dog. In fact in this year Dasuke Adachi discovered these dogs and in 1934 was actually designated a Natural Monument in Japan and also protected by law.

The Kai Ken was recognized in 1934 by the Japanese Kennel Club. It is not 100% certain but it is thought that the dog was brought to the United States in the 1950s.

queensland heelerAnother name for Queensland Heeler is Australian Cattle Dog or Blue Heeler.

These dogs have always been known for herding cattle. The term ‘Heeler’ comes from the dog’s working style – nipping and biting at the cattle’s hooves.

He was was an Australian cattle dog for Australian settlers in the 1800s. It is believed that Thomas Hall created one of the foundations of the Australian Cattle Dog breed by crossing crossing sheepdogs with Dingos.

The Blue-colored dogs have been the most popular, being known as the Blue Heeler.

Description

kai ken puppy - descriptionThe Kai Ken has always been used for hunting purposes. He comes as recommended for hunting people and those who are active.

It is a medium sized dog standing at between 43 to 56cm in height both male and female and weighing between 14 and 22kg.

The ears of the dog are erect, the muzzle is fairly tapered and the nose is black. The tail is bushy like that of a fox and curls over the back. The double coat of the dog is of medium length and harsh and is a brindle color in a reddish or black shade.

Puppies are born black and then the brindle stripe-like pattern comes in later. He has an athletic body and is a keen swimmer.

Temperament:

The Kai Ken is an intelligent dog, loyal to his human family while being somewhat reserved around strangers. They are amicable with both children in the home as well as other pets.

He is a friendly, intelligent dog, forming close bonds with his family. Have him trained and socialized and he'll make you a splendid pet who will be willing to guard you if anyone threatens.

One look at that bright face and you can see that he is an intelligent, independent dog. He is also courageous and fearless and makes a great watchdog, especially because he is naturally reserved and suspicious with strangers.

queensland heeler puppy - descriptionThe Queensland Heeler is a medium sized dog that stands between 43 and 51cm in height, both male and female. The dog weighs in the region of 15 to 22kg.

He has a short double coat with colors being blue, mottled blue and also red speckled. You’ll also find black and tan coloring on this active dog.

He is strong, lean and muscular with medium sized ears that are erect. The eyes are dark and alert, the legs straight and strong. The tail can be docked or left long.

Temperament:

The Australian Cattle Dog is a high-energy working dog that you won’t easily find lying around. The alert eyes are consistently looking around for action and he can’t be bored otherwise he could resort to digging or other destructive behavior.

He is loving to his entire human family, but being particularly attached to just one family member. He is also protective, taking his guarding role of his family seriously.

He gets on well with children and other pets but you’ve just got to keep your eyes on him around children as when excited he can give a nip or two.

Training and socialization will be important for this dog, particularly because he can be strong-headed, willful and stubborn.

Characteristics

kai ken dog - characteristicsThe Kai Ken is a working- and hunting dog, so he is used to being active and will want a home where he can be played with and exercised regularly.

He can be slightly stubborn and independent so training and socialization are imperative. This is also because the dog’s curiosity and his athletic skills can lead to trouble if he isn’t properly trained.

Treat him the way he deserves and you’ll see that he is able to develop a strong bond with you and be altogether an excellent family pet.

queensland heeler dog - characteristicsActive, intelligent, feisty, brave, playful, loving – these are just some of the wonderful characteristics you get when you bring a Queensland Heeler into your home.

True, he is independent, self-willed and stubborn, but training and socialization can take away all the rough edges.

He forms a strong bond with his human owner, and once you’ve had one of these amazing dogs in your life, you’ll be convinced that dogs are truly man’s best friend.

Health Problems

kai ken puppies - health problemsWith a lifespan of 14 to 16 years, and given the genetic purity of the Kai Ken, you aren't likely to battle with congenital health problems with your dog, but it is always good to be aware of certain minor health issues that he could succumb to.

He can suffer from a few common dog diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy or hip dysplasia.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This is a disease of the eye where there is wasting of certain parts, and in this case the cells of the retina develop abnormally. This can eventually lead to blindness. It’s an inherited disease that can occur in pure- and mixed breeds, and dogs with PRA shouldn’t be used for breeding.

It isn’t a painful condition, and the first symptom usually noticed in a dog is night blindness where you may notice him bumping into things at night and being reluctant to walk around in the dark.

queensland heeler puppies - health problemsAustralian Cattle Dogs are healthy. Every dog, even the most healthiest breeds, can succumb to some of the common dog illnesses there are.

Deafness:

This is an inherited condition, so if you’re looking for a puppy, be careful about the breeder you buy from.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is another inherited condition where the thighbone of the dog doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Your dog is usually so active but with this problem he may well be in pain and actually be lame. Your pet can even develop arthritis . The idea is to get your pet to the vet because it can be unbearable to see him in pain and unable to get around.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

This eye disease can mean deterioration of the retina. You'll recognize the signs when you see your dog unable to navigate around your home during the night. He is night blind but later on he can’t see during the day either.

Caring The Pet

kai ken dogs - caringEven though the coat is thick, the Kai Ken will require basic canine care, so a brush twice a week will be enough to keep the coat free of loose hair. He sheds more heavily a couple of times a year and then he will require more brushing.

He has always been used to hunt so he is a dog that will require regular exercise such as walks, hikes, swimming and ball games.

The nails of the dog should be trimmed regularly once they become long as long nails can be hazardous and can hook onto things, causing injury to the nail area.

The ears of the dog should be checked regularly for fleas and ticks, and teeth should also be brushed with canine toothbrush and toothpaste.

queensland heeler dogs - caringTo cope with his life on the Australian Outback, the Queensland Heeler is known to be a low maintenance dog.

The thick coat does shed and it can get dusty so a good brush twice a week is all that is basically required for this dog. If his nails don’t wear down naturally, you will need to have them trimmed. As with every dog, you will need to give attention to his ears and teeth.

Exercise:

This is an extremely active dog. He is going to be needing both mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom, after all he is used to an active lifestyle herding cattle. Hikes, swimming, running – you name it – he’ll join you with all your activities.

Diet:

Your Queensland Heeler is such a vibrant dog, full of the joys of living, and you want to ensure he has good food to eat to ensure he stays like that.

For convenience you get some excellent commercially manufactured dog foods. Your Blue Heeler is such a wonderful companion dog that you want to spoil him a bit and give him some delicious home-made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your pet – plain and simple just like dogs love it. Chop it up and add it into the high quality dry kibble a couple of times a week.

Some raw meat added in from time to time will help his skin and coat remain healthy. Never leave him without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Queensland Heeler vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  3. Queensland Heeler vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Queensland Heeler vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Queensland Heeler vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Queensland Heeler vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Queensland Heeler vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Queensland Heeler vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Queensland Heeler vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Queensland Heeler vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Queensland Heeler vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Queensland Heeler vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Queensland Heeler vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Queensland Heeler vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Queensland Heeler vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Queensland Heeler vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Queensland Heeler vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Queensland Heeler vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
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  23. Queensland Heeler vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Queensland Heeler vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Queensland Heeler vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Kai Ken vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Kai Ken vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Kai Ken vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Kai Ken vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Kai Ken vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Kai Ken vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Kai Ken vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Kai Ken vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Kai Ken vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Kai Ken vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Kai Ken vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Kai Ken vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Kai Ken vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Kai Ken vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Kai Ken vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Kai Ken vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Kai Ken vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Kai Ken vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Kai Ken vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Kai Ken vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Kai Ken vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Kai Ken vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Kai Ken vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Kai Ken vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Kai Ken vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison