Petzlover
Brug is originated from United States but Kai Ken is originated from Japan. Brug may grow 10 cm / 3 inches shorter than Kai Ken. Brug may weigh 11 kg / 24 pounds lesser than Kai Ken. Both Brug and Kai Ken has almost same life span. Both Brug and Kai Ken has almost same litter size. Brug requires High Maintenance. But Kai Ken requires Moderate Maintenance
The Brug or Griffon Pug is not a purebred dog at this point in time. It is a cross between a Pug and a Brussels Griffon, currently known as a “designer dog” or a hybrid. This hybrid is really rare at this time but growing in popularity and breeders. Its exact history or original development is unknown at this time and needs to be researched as the hybrid develops into a breed, or breed clubs are formed. If you like either of the two breeds involved, you are sure to like the Brug. They are obviously not recognized by the major kennel clubs, but they are registered with a variety of hybrid/designer dog clubs. These include:
The 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.
Like its two parental breeds, the Brug is a smaller sized dog – both parents are lab dogs and so is the Brug. Because they are hybrids, Brugs can be very different in appearance but most seem to have large eyes, squishy faces, black masks, fluffy hair, long black whiskers, short fluffy hair, flat ears and a fluffy tail. They could be in any of a number of colors including fawn, black, cream or apricot.
The 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.
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.
This hybrid is a loyal little dog. They are an affectionate lap dog that wants to be with his humans all the time. They have a very pleasant disposition and do well with children and other dogs. They might be shy to begin with but will warm up to affection. However, they are willful and self-important at times. This is tempered by their great sense of humor and empathy to its peoples’ moods. Left alone too long, they will tend to bark excessively.
The 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.
Usually the hybrid dog can have better health than either of the parents. This is true with the Brug as well, but there are also some issues they may inherit from the parents or face simply because of their size and complexion. These include:
With 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.
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.
Don’t let this dog get overweight. Feed a high quality dry food intended for small or toy dogs. One fourth to one half of a cup per day in two separate meals is what is recommended.
Patella Luxation or slipped knee caps – small dogs often have this issue. The patella is the knee cap and layman often called it a slipped knee cap, but it is also called slipped stifles. The femur, the tibia and the patella do not line up and this causes an abnormal gait or even lameness. Puppies are born with this, but it does not exhibit symptoms until years later. Arthritis is the most common result. Occasionally surgery is required.
Eye Issues – Cherry eye, a genetic disease, as well as irritation from air borne particles, allergies or scratches.
Skin Allergies – They can have skin allergies so watch for excessive licking or scratching.
Breathing Issues – Asthma and respiratory issues are common among small dogs with these types of faces.
Like their 2 breed parents, the Brug is a small but energetic hybrid. They need to play and run on a daily basis. Leash walks are good, but they need a yard or dog park as well. They are athletic little dogs and are good at tracking, obedience and agility. You cannot force them to do an activity but if its fun they will jump right in.
Even 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.