Ninken

are essentially dogs that have heightened senses and abilities and as such are able to work with ninja. Although the dogs belonging to the members of the Inuzuka clan are ninken, the phrase can also be used in reference to the pack of ninken summoned by specific Shinobi. Ninken have shown the ability to use human language, perform/teach/pass on jutsu, travel long distances and possess extremely investigative senses as well. They are supposed to be quite dangerous in combat, being used to take down dangerous criminals. Summoners of Ninken possess their own pack, prohibiting two contractor's from accessing the same Ninken.