Country of Origin: Japan Bred for: Hunting small game Group: Non-sporting Color: Red, black, and tan, and sesame (black-tipped hairs on red) with cream, buff, or gray undercoat Life span: 13 to 15 years Grooming Needs: Seaonal shedders. Brush twice a week; bathe twice a year or more often as needed Coat: Thick and plush double coat comprised of a strong, straigh outercoat with a soft, dense undercoat Size: Males 14 1/2 inches to 16 1/2 inches, 23 pounds; females 13 1/2 to 15 1/2 inches, 17 pounds Temperment: Alert, confident, courageous, and bold Training: Moderate Energy: Moderate Children: Good with older children Compatibility with other dogs: Not good especially same sex Health Concerns: Patellar luxation, early onset cataracts, hip dysplasia, inhalant and food allergies. Possible heart murmur, often in puppies, but usually not serious