Kakashi, a beloved character from Naruto, has a mysterious background, especially about his family. Although he’s introduced as the teacher of Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, we don’t know much about his past except for his time as a shinobi with Rin and Obito.
However, fans believe there are hints suggesting Kakashi might be related to Kiba Inuzaka’s family, known for their strong sense of smell and dog-focused abilities. This is because Kakashi can use similar attacks, has enhanced senses, and can summon dogs, leading fans to think his mother might have been part of the Inuzaka clan.
Fan Theory Suggests Kakashi Hatake’s Dual Heritage
Kakashi is from the Hatake Clan, but some think he might have connections to the Inuzaka Clan. A fan theory on Quora suggests a connection between Kakashi’s lineage and Kiba Inuzaka’s clan. Kakashi’s sense of smell surpasses Kiba’s. He could track Naruto and Sasuke by scent during their battle at the Valley of End.
Also like Kiba who is known for dealing with dogs and has his companion (Akamaru), Kakashi can summon ninja dogs (like Ninken) for help in battles, first seen against Zabuza.
These are some connections regarding similar skills between Kakashi and the Inuzaka clan. However, there are also biological similarities between them, such as the face marks.
The Inuzuka are known for distinctive face markings that all clan members have, like Kiba, his mother, and sister. These markings don’t appear to be painted on. This might explain why Kakashi wears his mask, possibly to avoid being identified with the Inuzuka Clan due to these markings he didn’t like.
Despite these connections, many fans thought that these are just coincidences, not similarities, and provided some counterarguments about this theory.
Counter Arguments Against Kakashi-Inuzuka Clan Connection Theory
The theory suggests that Kakashi might have a connection with Kiba’s clan due to his summoning of dogs. Kakashi summons dogs as companions in battle, similar to Kiba and the Inuzaka clan’s association with dogs. However, it’s not entirely true because Kakashi doesn’t have permanent dog companions like the Inuzaka clan; he can summon them for help.
Additionally, the Inuzaka clan’s face mark doesn’t apply to Kakashi since we’ve seen him without his mask in a manga chapter, revealing no mark on his cheek. However, this is a pretty weak argument as a piece of art is not strong evidence to prevent a retcon.
Whatever the case may be, there are too many clues to dismiss, suggesting Kakashi has a connection to the Inuzuka Clan. It could be through his mother, grandparents, or some other familial link.
