I am Brad Anderson, a software engineer, passionate dog lover, and dedicated breeder focused on preserving rare and primitive dog breeds. I live with my wife and daughter on a secluded 20-acre property in Northern New Mexico. My hobbies include cooking, photography, science, and exploring the outdoors. I also enjoy spending time with my family and caring for my dogs, which are an integral part of my life.
I operate two kennels: Yamabushi Kennel, specializing in the Kai Ken, and Hakuzan Kennel, focusing on the Kishu Ken and Tosa Inu. I have made significant contributions to the knowledge and preservation of several rare breeds, particularly Japanese breeds. My dedication to these breeds has led me to become the first non-Japanese member of the Kai Ken Aigokai, Japan's primary preservation society for the Kai Ken.
I am a passionate dog lover and a dedicated breeder focused on preserving rare and primitive dog breeds. As a published member of the Primitive and Aboriginal Dogs Breed Society (PADS), I have significantly contributed to the knowledge and preservation of several rare breeds. I live on a secluded 20-acre property in Carson, New Mexico, with my wife and daughter. I operate two kennels: Yamabushi Kennel for the Kai Ken and Hakuzan Kennel for the Kishu Ken and Tosa Inu.
My journey into the world of rare dog breeds began with my fascination with the Nihon Ken, the native dog breeds of Japan. My dedication to these breeds made me the first non-Japanese member of the Kai Ken Aigokai, Japan's primary preservation society for the Kai Ken. Through my efforts, I have imported over 50 Kai Ken from Japan, significantly contributing to the breed's genetic diversity in North America.
My passion for preserving rare breeds extends beyond the Nihon Ken. I am interested in various dog breeds, including livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) like the Caucasian Ovcharka and Central Asian Ovcharka, and fighting and hunting breeds like the Dogo Argentino and Tosa Inu. My approach to breeding and preservation emphasizes maintaining genetic diversity, health, and the traditional working abilities of these breeds.
My property in Carson, New Mexico, provides an ideal environment for my dogs. The rural, spacious setting allows the dogs to live in conditions similar to their native habitats, supporting their physical and mental well-being. My kennels are known for their high standards of care, with a focus on health testing, responsible breeding practices, and proper socialization.
My dedication to rare breeds is also reflected in my educational outreach. I actively share my knowledge through articles, interviews, and participation in breed-specific events. By raising awareness about these breeds' historical significance and unique qualities, I encourage others to participate in preservation efforts. I collaborate with breeders and preservation societies globally, ensuring my work aligns with broader preservation goals.
One of my notable achievements is my role in starting a non-profit organization that reintegrates the North American Kai Ken population with its Japanese roots. This initiative has strengthened the genetic health and viability of the Kai Ken breed in North America, showcasing my commitment to long-term breed preservation.
My wife and I have been together for over 20 years, sharing a mutual love for dogs and a commitment to preserving rare breeds. Our daughter is growing up surrounded by these magnificent animals, learning the importance of animal care and preservation from a young age.
My expertise and dedication have earned me recognition within the dog breeding and preservation community. My work inspires others to appreciate and protect rare dog breeds, ensuring their survival for future generations.
My work preserving rare breeds is driven by a deep commitment to maintaining genetic diversity and protecting endangered breeds. My efforts include starting a non-profit to reintegrate the North American Kai Ken population with its Japanese roots and operating two kennels: Yamabushi Kennel for the Kai Ken and Hakuzan Kennel for the Kishu Ken and Tosa Inu. My work extends beyond Japanese breeds, including livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) and fighting and hunting breeds.
My approach to preservation involves several vital strategies:
I emphasize importing dogs from diverse bloodlines to enrich the genetic pool. This practice helps prevent the bottleneck effect, which can lead to health issues and loss of breed characteristics. By collaborating with breeders and preservation societies in the breeds' countries of origin, I ensure that the dogs I import contribute positively to the breed's genetic diversity.
I actively educate others about the importance of preserving rare breeds. I share my knowledge through articles, interviews, and participation in breed-specific events. By raising awareness about these breeds' historical significance and unique qualities, I encourage others to participate in preservation efforts.
Maintaining genetic health and breed standards is a cornerstone of my breeding program. I prioritize health testing and careful selection of breeding pairs to ensure that each litter contributes to the long-term viability of the breed. This approach helps preserve the physical and behavioral traits that make each breed unique.
I work closely with preservation societies like the Kai Ken Aigokai and NIPPO to align my efforts with broader preservation goals. These collaborations provide valuable support and resources, helping me stay informed about the latest research and best practices in breed preservation.
I ensure the functional abilities of breeds with a working heritage are preserved. This involves training and working my dogs in their traditional roles, whether hunting, guarding, or performing other tasks. I help ensure the breeds remain true to their original purposes by maintaining these abilities.
The Nihon Ken consists of six native Japanese dog breeds, each with its unique history, characteristics, and preservation needs. The creation of the Nihon Ken Honzonkai (NIPPO) in 1928 led to the standardization of these breeds into three size categories: small, medium, and large.
The six Nihon Ken breeds are:
These breeds have been refined over the years, with medium-sized breeds considered the most “primitive.”
The Nihon Ken breeds have a rich history intertwined with Japanese culture and geography. Before the creation of NIPPO, the Nihon Ken were divided primarily by geography. The isolated mountainous areas where these breeds originated helped maintain their purity. After World War II, the Japanese began formalizing these breeds, forming NIPPO to preserve native Japanese breeds. The Japanese have gone a long way in refining these breeds, but today, the medium-sized Nihon Ken are considered the most "primitive" due to their retention of working and hunting instincts alongside their looks.
Genetic studies have shown that the Nihon Ken breeds share similarities with other East Asian and European spitz-type breeds, revealing a deeper connection and historical migration patterns. This genetic diversity is crucial for the breeds' health and preservation.
The Kai Ken, also known as the Tora Inu (Tiger Dog), is distinguished by its brindle coat. Originating from the mountainous region of Kai (modern-day Yamanashi), the Kai Ken was historically used for hunting various games, like pheasants, boar, deer, Kamoshika, and bears.
Efforts to preserve the breed began in the Showa period, leading to its classification as a Natural Monument in 1933. The Kai Ken is known for its intelligence, athleticism, and strong hunting instincts. I became the first non-Japanese member of the Kai Ken Aigokai, the Japanese preservation society for the breed. I imported over 50 Kai Ken from Japan, significantly contributing to the breed's genetic diversity in America. The breed's population in the U.S. faced a genetic bottleneck, and my efforts have helped stabilize and improve the breed's genetic health.
How Others Can Help:The Kishu Ken originates from the Kishu region (modern-day Wakayama and Mie prefectures) and is primarily a large-game hunting dog. The breed, known for its hunting prowess and fearlessness, was declared a Natural Monument in 1934. Most Kishu Kens today are white due to the popularity of the Ouchiyama line of white Kishu.
My preservation efforts for the Kishu Ken have focused on importing quality dogs from Japan to increase genetic diversity in the U.S. I imported the first Yusoku Kishu Ken, a colored Kishu Ken, as well as other Kishu Ken and continue to work with other breeders to preserve the breed. Due to its small population, Kishu Ken faces bottlenecking in America, and my work aims to mitigate this issue.
How Others Can Help:
The Shikoku Ken is native to Kochi prefecture on the island of Shikoku. Known for its tenacity in hunting large game and calm demeanor around family, the Shikoku Ken was declared a Living Natural Monument in 1937. The breed is characterized by its well-balanced and muscular build, with coat colors including red sesame, black sesame, and sesame.
My involvement with the Shikoku Ken has been more behind the scenes. I focus on importing quality dogs and placing them with dedicated breeders. The Shikoku breed faces challenges due to the aging breeder population in Japan and the heavy-handed selection process leading to inbreeding. My efforts aim to ensure the breed's survival outside Japan by collaborating with other breeders and enthusiasts.
How Others Can Help:
The Hokkaido Inu, also known as the Ainu Ken, originates from Hokkaido. Renowned for its bravery, the Hokkaido Inu was used to hunt bears and deer. The breed was declared a Living Natural Monument in 1937 and is known for its robust build, longer coat, and various colors, including white, red, black, brindle, sesame, and grey.
I played a crucial role in preserving the Hokkaido breed in America. Before my efforts, very few representatives of the breed were in the U.S. I imported a female named Ginko from the last bear-hunting kennel in Hokkaido, followed by a brindle male named Yizo. Their union produced the first Hokkaido litter in America, marking a significant milestone in the breed's preservation.
How Others Can Help:
The Shiba Inu is the most miniature and most famous Nihon Ken breed. Originating from central Japan, it was used to hunt small game and birds. The breed was declared a Living Natural Monument in the 1930s and is known for its agility, alertness, and independence.
The Shiba Inu's preservation has been driven by its popularity and adaptability as a family pet. My focus on other Japanese breeds has indirectly supported the Shiba Inu by raising awareness of the Nihon Ken.
How Others Can Help:
The Akita Inu is the largest of the Nihon Ken breeds, originating from the northern part of Honshu. Initially used for hunting large game, the breed was later developed for dog fighting. In 1931, it was declared a Living Natural Monument. The breed is known for its intelligence, independence, and loyalty.
Due to its large size and the housing situation in Japan, the Akita Inu's preservation has faced challenges. Efforts have been ongoing to maintain the breed's traditional characteristics while adapting to modern needs. My work with the Nihon Ken has raised awareness and support for the Akita Inu.
How Others Can Help:
The Caucasian Ovcharka, also known as the Caucasian Mountain Dog, originated in the Soviet era. It stems from trans-Caucasian landrace breeds like the Gamper, Nogazi, and dogs from Azerbaijan. The Soviets refined this breed to be a strong and aggressive territorial guardian, making it ideal for protecting properties and families. While the original breeds are generally suspicious but non-aggressive toward strangers, the Caucasian Ovcharka is specifically bred to be unwelcoming to outsiders, particularly on their territory.
My experience with the Caucasian Ovcharka includes importing and breeding these dogs to serve as effective property guardians. Despite their intimidating presence, they are loyal and loving to their families. I imported Luytiy, my first male, from Russia at about a year old. Luytiy, who passed away at age 16, embodies the breed's 'shock and awe' tactic of intimidating would-be intruders through imposing displays rather than actual engagement.
I have owned and worked with ten Caucasian Ovcharkas, producing two litters with Luytiy and his female, Masha. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their families and effective as property guardians. However, they aren't typically warm to strangers, including visiting family members and guests. Safety precautions should be in place to secure these dogs around unfamiliar people. That said, they often show surprising tolerance towards other dogs. Luytiy, for instance, is excellent with other dogs and a loving companion to my daughter.
The Central Asian Ovcharka, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd, is a unique landrace breed from Central Asia, encompassing countries like Kazakhstan, Mongolia, and parts of Russia. Despite regional names, they are all Central Asian Shepherds. The breed is adapted to the harsh climate of the steppes, with extreme temperature swings from hot to cold and varied weather conditions from dry to wet and snowy. Traditionally used by nomadic people, these dogs are accustomed to constant movement and long distances, making them ideal for guarding livestock.
My work with the Central Asian Ovcharka includes importing quality dogs from their countries of origin to enrich the breed's population in the U.S. I currently have two Central Asian Shepherds, Timur and Nina. Timur came from Maxomagic Kennel, owned by Dan Nash, while Nina was imported from Kazakhstan. Nina has exceeded my expectations; she is a large female with excellent movement, a proper head type, and an outcross from the existing U.S. lines.
Nina is incredible with my family, particularly my daughter and wife. She is a serious guardian but becomes very loving once introduced to people. She is also an excellent mother, good with other dogs, and amazing with livestock. I use Nina and Timur as livestock guardians, and they help watch for predators like coyotes when walking goats in the forest.
The Dogo Argentino is a hunting breed developed in Argentina specifically for hunting boar and puma. Two brothers created it based on the now-extinct fighting dog of Cordoba and added various other breeds to it. The exact mix of breeds is ambiguous, with debates over the inclusion of breeds like the Irish Wolfhound. Regardless, the Dogo was developed to be a more giant dog than the Cordoba, adept at tracking and catching wild boar and fighting puma.
I acquired my Dogo Argentino, Che, specifically for hunting mountain lions. Previously, I used my male West Siberian Laika, Ike, for hunting puma, cougar, mountain lions, and bobcats. My approach is to haze them, using dogs to bark and stress the prey, making them fearful of both dogs and humans. Che has accompanied me on many hunts with Ike, although he has not fought any cats, which I prefer. Despite acquiring Che for hunting purposes, I have found the breed to have some health concerns, such as allergies to corn, deafness, and weak bladders. However, aside from these issues, dogs make excellent family dogs.
The Tosa Inu, a Japanese fighting dog, was developed on Shikoku Island by mixing several Western breeds with the local Shikoku dog. Despite its fighting heritage, the Tosa Inu can be a loyal and well-behaved pet when adequately handled. Historically, the people of Shikoku were known for their aggressiveness during the Edo period. They fought their native Shikoku Ken but found them consistently defeated by the Akita dogs from Akita, used by the Samurai. This led to the development of the Tosa Inu to overcome the Akita Ken, establishing the Tosa as Japan's primary fighting dog.
My work with the Tosa Inu includes importing quality dogs from Japan and maintaining a breeding program to preserve the breed's traditional characteristics. I imported Sakura, a beautiful female Tosa, and later acquired Musashi, a male with solid bloodlines, including champion fighting dogs. Despite challenges like Sakura developing hip dysplasia, I continue to focus on maintaining the breed's traditional qualities. Tosas can make great pets for people who understand the nuances of owning a potentially dog-aggressive breed. They are active puppies and require proper socialization and training.
The Gamper is an Armenian livestock guardian dog traditionally used to protect sheep from wolves. Armenia has a significant wolf population, and the Gamper, part of the trans-Caucasian landrace of livestock guardians, is crucial for protection. This group includes the Negazi, various Turkish breeds, the Saravi dog from Iran, and dogs from Azerbaijan.
My interest in the Gamper led me to import two females, Siuran and Nora, who were excellent livestock guardians. Gampers are intelligent and exhibit more human suspicion, effectively preventing theft. Nora came through contacts preserving the Gamper in America, specifically Rohana, who frequently travels to Armenia. Nora represents the trans-Caucasian LGD landrace well.
Gampers are not excessive barkers but are significant when they do bark. They are clean dogs and potty train quickly. I crate-train all my dogs, even working livestock guardians, to ensure they are comfortable in a crate if ever injured. Gampers thrive in cold winters and hot summers, reflecting their adaptability to Armenia's varied climate.
The Bully Kutta is a dog breed from the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. Historically used for hunting, guarding, and fighting, this breed has garnered interest in the big dog community due to its unique characteristics and lack of formal pedigrees. Breeders maintain lineage records, but there are no official pedigrees.
My experience with the Bully Kutta has revealed their handler-soft nature, making them responsive to training and sound with family. My Bully Kutta, Xina, has been very good with my other dogs and family. While any mastiff, especially those with a fighting background, can react aggressively if provoked, Xina has been remarkably social and tolerant. Xina's suspicion of strangers may develop into aggression as she matures, aligning with reports of the breed's protective nature.
The Nenets Herding Laika is one of the last aboriginal breeds still performing the work they have done for centuries. This breed has remained untouched by kennel clubs and breeding restrictions, preserving its natural characteristics and abilities. I was captivated by this breed's resilience and cultural significance, leading me to introduce it to North America.
The journey to bring the first Nenets Herding Laikas to the United States took over five years of dedicated effort. I imported two foundational dogs: Ruch, a female, and Oshaka, a male. Both dogs were carefully selected from the Nenets people, an indigenous group living in the Russian tundra, who have relied on these dogs for herding reindeer and protecting their livestock. The Nenets Herding Laika is known for its intelligence, endurance, and strong herding instincts, making it an invaluable working dog in extreme climates.
Even now, the progeny of Oshaka and Ruch continue to herd reindeer in the Russian tundra, maintaining the breed's traditional role. This ongoing connection to their original work and environment is a testament to the breed's purity and effectiveness. Introducing the Nenets Herding Laika to North America was a significant milestone in my work with rare breeds, allowing me to contribute to the preservation and promotion of this unique and vital breed.
The West Siberian Laika is a versatile hunting breed from Western Siberia in Russia. It is one of the last true landrace hunting breeds, and it has maintained its functional abilities through centuries of use in hunting. Laikas are known for their adaptability, intelligence, and strong hunting instincts. They were historically used by Siberian hunters for various games, including small game like squirrels and larger prey like black bears and moose.
My journey with the West Siberian Laika began with my dog Ike, who was used for hunting black bears. Ike exemplifies the breed's exceptional hunting prowess and loyalty. I emphasize the importance of maintaining the breed's working abilities, even as the breed becomes more popular in the show circuit and breed clubs.
The West Siberian Laika's hunting style is characterized by its versatility and independent problem-solving skills. These dogs learn to hunt the game their handler prioritizes, making them highly adaptable hunting companions. I have used Ike and Anja, another West Siberian Laika, to track and tree various games, showcasing their agility and keen sense of smell.
My breeding program for the West Siberian Laika focuses on preserving the breed's traditional hunting abilities and genetic diversity. I carefully select breeding pairs based on their working performance, health, and temperament. My efforts ensure that the West Siberian Laika remains a functional hunting breed, true to its landrace origins.
The Karelian Bear Dog is a robust hunting breed from Finland, renowned for its ability to hunt large game such as bear and moose. This breed originated from the Laika landrace but later became a distinct breed focusing on hunting prowess and fearlessness. Karelians are prized for their courage, agility, and intense prey drive, making them indispensable companions for hunters in Finland and Russia.
I imported Juko, a Karelian Bear Dog, from Finland. Juko has proven to be an excellent hunting companion, demonstrating the breed's characteristic bravery and loyalty. Karelian Bear Dogs are energetic and require ample exercise and mental stimulation. They are known for their strong bond with their owners and their ability to work independently in challenging conditions.
I have used Juko to hunt various game, including bears and moose, and have found the breed incredibly versatile and practical. Karelians are not just hunting dogs; they also excel as loyal family companions. I appreciate their cleanliness, quiet demeanor indoors, and affectionate nature towards family members.
My experience with the Karelian Bear Dog highlights the breed's exceptional hunting abilities and strong work ethic. I ensure my Karelians are well-trained and socialized, maintaining their traditional roles while adapting to a family environment. My commitment to preserving the Karelian Bear Dog includes participating in hunting trials and collaborating with other breeders to maintain the breed's genetic health and working capabilities.
The Boerboel is a powerful and protective breed from South Africa, originally developed to guard homesteads, livestock, and families. This breed combines strength, loyalty, and a calm demeanor, making it an excellent guardian and companion. Boerboels were bred by Dutch settlers in South Africa who needed a versatile and reliable dog to protect their farms from predators and intruders.
My Boerboel, Sabir, was acquired as a personal protection dog from a specific line bred for civil aggression. Sabir exemplifies the breed's natural protective instincts and deep bond with his owner. I describe Sabir as a classic “velcro dog,” always wanting to be close to me and displaying stress when separated. This deep bond makes Boerboels exceptional personal protectors, but it also requires owners to be experienced and knowledgeable about handling strong, protective breeds.
My experience with Boerboels, particularly in rescue situations, highlights the importance of breeding for solid nerves and proper civil aggression. I have encountered Boerboels with hypervigilance and fear-based biting, emphasizing the need for careful selection and training. I ensure that Sabir is well-socialized and trained, providing a balanced and confident demeanor.
Boerboels are known for their versatility and adaptability, thriving in various environments and climates. When properly socialized, they are excellent with children and other animals. My commitment to preserving the Boerboel includes promoting responsible breeding practices, educating potential owners about the breed's characteristics, and participating in breed-specific events to showcase the Boerboel's qualities.
I'm often asked to explain my personal breeding project, Backcountry Companions. Sometimes it's people who are against crossing dog breeds asking, and other times it's people who are open-minded and interested in what I'm doing.
Recently, there has been some misinformation floating around the interwebz about it, so I figured it was time to write down what I'm working to create. This blog post will act as a temporary place to share my thoughts on my program until I have completed my website.
First, I want to be clear about something: I'm not working to create a new dog breed. I never plan to give a name to this cross or work to get it registered in any type of club. This project is a personal project—I'm working to create the type of dog I want.
Also, I am not trying to "fix" things I don't like in other dog breeds. I am not trying to improve on any of the dog breeds I use in the cross. That's not the point of this project.
What I'm working to create is a weather-tolerant spitz-type backcountry companion with natural predator aggression, that's biddable and easy to hike off-leash, quiet, and clean. Size is not very important to me; however, I would like the dog to be large enough to pack but small enough to be carried out of the backcountry if injured. It's my goal to minimize dog aggression and reactivity and breed for solid nerves and health.
I want this cross to be efficient (not requiring large amounts of food or water) and able to spend weeks in the bush with their companion without the need for much gear—comfortable in hot and cold, rain or snow.
While some of the pups produced will likely make good hunting dogs, I am not actually trying to create a hunting dog cross.
I've owned and loved many dogs of many breeds, some of which, on paper, one would think would fulfill the role I am looking to fill with this cross. However, in my experience, that is not the case. Dog aggression, quarrelsome behavior, weak nerves (fearful behavior), hypervigilance, poor health, no "off" switch, and obsessive barking are just a few of the things I have seen in dog breeds I've owned in hopes of fulfilling this role. Sure, one could find a dog that could fill this role, but I would like to be able to produce dogs where the majority consistently fit this role.
Dog aggression is a particularly difficult thing to deal with in a dog meant to be a backcountry companion and/or a hunting dog. Hiking along a trail, or even off trail, there's always a chance you'll run into a fellow hiker, camper, or hunter with a dog. Often this happens when you are least expecting it and not prepared for the encounter. Having a companion dog who acts indifferent toward the random dogs you run into is a huge advantage.
People in dogdom tend to obsess over what breed is used in a cross. I'm not one of those people. The dogs I have selected to be used in my project have less to do with their breed and more to do with the individual dog. If I have a dog that I feel will add some traits I am looking for, without compromising other traits, then I will use it in my program—breed doesn't matter that much to me.
With that said, because I know people still want to know the breeds used in the cross, here is a list of the breedings I have done so far. Please keep in mind I am in the very early stages of creating the foundation for my project so all the crosses so far have been using Smokey as a base for the foundation. I'm looking forward to reaching the point where I can start crossing my foundation dogs while adding some new dogs to the cross. My hope is to keep a COI of below 5%, so I will be working to minimize inbreeding.
My dedication to preserving rare dog breeds, particularly the Nihon Ken, is a testament to my passion and commitment. Through my extensive efforts in breeding, importing, and educating others, I have made significant strides in maintaining these breeds' genetic diversity and health. My work inspires others to take action in preserving rare breeds, ensuring their survival for future generations. By supporting responsible breeding practices, participating in preservation societies, and educating the public, we can all contribute to preserving these unique and valuable breeds.
