Shikoku

The Shikoku is a medium-sized hunting dog originating from Japan. They are loyal and calm but can be reserved with strangers.

Shikoku Breed overview

The Shikoku is a medium-sized, high-energy dog breed with a friendly, playful personality. They are adaptable to different living environments, but will need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom or destructive behavior. They are intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train, but they respond well to positive reinforcement and consistency. They have a strong prey drive and may be tempted to wander or roam if not properly supervised. Overall, the Shikoku is a great choice for active, outdoorsy families or individuals who want a loyal, energetic companion.

Height:
17-22 inches
Weight:
35-55 lbs
Life expectancy:
10-12 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Shikoku

Grooming

The Shikoku has a thick double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. They shed seasonally, and during these times, they may require more frequent grooming to remove loose hair. The breed is generally considered to be a clean dog and does not require frequent bathing.

Owners should also trim their Shikoku's nails regularly and keep their ears clean and dry to prevent infections.

Exercise

The Shikoku requires plenty of physical exercise to remain healthy and happy. They enjoy going for long walks, runs, and hikes with their owners and should have access to a large, securely fenced yard where they can play and burn off energy.

This breed should not be left alone for extended periods as they thrive on the company of their human family.

Training

The Shikoku is an intelligent breed that can be quite stubborn, so it's important to begin training early to establish yourself as the pack leader. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are the most effective training methods for this breed.

Given their high energy levels and hunting history, Shikokus excel in sports such as agility and obedience, which provide them with physical and mental stimulation.

Nutrition

Feeding your Shikoku a high-quality diet is essential for keeping them healthy. Owners should look for a dog food that contains a high percentage of protein, as this will help maintain their lean muscle mass.

Avoid overfeeding your Shikoku, as they can be prone to weight gain if they are not given enough exercise.

Health

The Shikoku is generally a healthy breed with no major health concerns. However, like all dogs, they are still susceptible to some hereditary and environmental health issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help prevent and detect any health problems early.

Owners should monitor their Shikoku for any signs of hip dysplasia, cataracts, or other health issues that may develop over time.

Discover the joy of unconditional love and loyal companionship by adopting a dog today!

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Shikoku Traits & Characteristics

The Shikoku has a height of 48-55 cm (male) and 43-52 cm (female) at the shoulder, and they weigh between 18-27 kg. They have a broad head with a powerful jaw, a straight, strong back, and well-muscled legs that enable them to move with agility and speed in difficult terrain.

The breed typically has a sesame, black, or red coat, with a thick undercoat and a stiff, straight topcoat that can be either short or long. The Shikoku's tail is quite distinctive, resembling a fox's brush, and it curves over their back when they are alert or excited.

The breed has a lifespan of 10-12 years, and they are generally healthy and free from major health issues.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Shikoku dogs have a moderate level of affection and devotion to their owners. They are not overly clingy or dependent, but enjoy being around their people and enjoy close physical contact.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise and activity. They may become too excited or boisterous around small children, but can learn to interact well with older, more responsible children.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Shikoku dogs are generally friendly and sociable with other dogs, but can be territorial or dominant with unfamiliar dogs. They may need early socialization and training to ensure good behavior.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Shikoku dogs are generally wary of strangers and may need early socialization and training to prevent skittish or fearful behavior. However, they can learn to be friendly with new people if socialized correctly.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Shikoku dogs are highly energetic and playful, and enjoy a variety of physical and mental activities. They are great companions for people who enjoy hiking, jogging, agility, or other active pastimes.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Shikoku dogs are alert and vigilant, and make excellent watchdogs. They may bark or alert their owners to unusual sights or sounds, which can make them a good choice for people who need extra security at home.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Shikoku dogs are adaptable and can adjust well to different living environments, such as apartments or houses. However, they do have a high energy level and will need plenty of exercise, so they are not an ideal breed for sedentary or inactive owners.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Shikoku dogs have a thick double coat that sheds heavily during shedding season. Regular grooming and brushing can help manage shedding and keep the coat healthy.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Shikoku dogs have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting, tangles, and debris. They may also need occasional trimming to maintain neatness.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Shikoku dogs are generally dry-mouthed and do not drool excessively. They are a good choice for people who prefer a clean, low-maintenance breed.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Shikoku dogs are a medium-sized breed, with a height of 17-20 inches and weight of 35-55 pounds. They are well-suited for families or individuals who want a medium-sized dog with a lot of energy and playfulness.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They are well-suited for active families or people who enjoy outdoor activities.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and need plenty of exercise and physical activity to maintain their health and well-being. They are well-suited for active families or individuals who enjoy hiking, jogging, or other outdoor activities.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Shikoku dogs have a long history as hunting and working dogs, and are still used for these purposes in Japan. They can also excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Shikoku dogs have a strong hunting instinct and make excellent trackers, hunters, and scenting dogs. They may be easily distracted by small animals or wildlife, and should be supervised closely in outdoor environments.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Shikoku dogs have a high level of vigor and endurance, and are well-suited for active, outdoorsy lifestyles. They can keep up with their owners during long hikes, jogs, or outdoor adventures.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Shikoku dogs are generally healthy and have a long lifespan of 12-14 years. However, they may be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinarian checkups and preventive care can help maintain their good health.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise and physical activity to maintain a healthy weight. However, they may become overweight or obese if given too many treats or allowed to become too sedentary.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Shikoku dogs have a thick double coat that provides good insulation against cold weather, but they may still need extra warmth and protection during extreme cold spells.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Shikoku dogs are adaptable to warm weather, but can become overheated or dehydrated if exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods of time. They will need access to shade, water, and air conditioning in hot climates.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Shikoku dogs are adaptable to different living environments, including apartments, but they will need plenty of exercise and playtime to prevent destructive behavior or hyperactivity. They may also become bored or restless if not given enough mental stimulation.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Shikoku dogs have a strong sense of independence and may wander or roam if not properly supervised or secured. They may also have a high prey drive and be tempted to chase small animals or wildlife.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Shikoku dogs are generally sensitive and can become stressed or anxious if exposed to harsh training methods or environments. They respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle, consistent training.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Shikoku dogs may experience separation anxiety or destructive behavior if left alone for long periods of time. They do best in homes where someone is present for most of the day, or where they have access to plenty of toys and mental stimulation.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Shikoku dogs are not excessive barkers, but will bark to alert their owners to potential danger or unusual activity. They may also bark out of excitement or playfulness, and early training can help prevent excessive barking.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Shikoku dogs are highly intelligent and enjoy a variety of mental challenges, including puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses. They may become bored or destructive if left without adequate mental stimulation.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Shikoku dogs can be challenging for novice owners to train and manage, due to their high energy level and independent personality. They may require a lot of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to develop good behavior.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Shikoku dogs are intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train. They may require consistent, positive reinforcement and plenty of mental stimulation to develop good behavior and obedience.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Shikoku dogs have a moderate level of affection and devotion to their owners. They are not overly clingy or dependent, but enjoy being around their people and enjoy close physical contact.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise and activity. They may become too excited or boisterous around small children, but can learn to interact well with older, more responsible children.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Shikoku dogs are generally friendly and sociable with other dogs, but can be territorial or dominant with unfamiliar dogs. They may need early socialization and training to ensure good behavior.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Shikoku dogs are generally wary of strangers and may need early socialization and training to prevent skittish or fearful behavior. However, they can learn to be friendly with new people if socialized correctly.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Shikoku dogs are highly energetic and playful, and enjoy a variety of physical and mental activities. They are great companions for people who enjoy hiking, jogging, agility, or other active pastimes.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Shikoku dogs are alert and vigilant, and make excellent watchdogs. They may bark or alert their owners to unusual sights or sounds, which can make them a good choice for people who need extra security at home.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Shikoku dogs are adaptable and can adjust well to different living environments, such as apartments or houses. However, they do have a high energy level and will need plenty of exercise, so they are not an ideal breed for sedentary or inactive owners.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Shikoku dogs have a thick double coat that sheds heavily during shedding season. Regular grooming and brushing can help manage shedding and keep the coat healthy.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Shikoku dogs have a thick double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting, tangles, and debris. They may also need occasional trimming to maintain neatness.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Shikoku dogs are generally dry-mouthed and do not drool excessively. They are a good choice for people who prefer a clean, low-maintenance breed.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Shikoku dogs are a medium-sized breed, with a height of 17-20 inches and weight of 35-55 pounds. They are well-suited for families or individuals who want a medium-sized dog with a lot of energy and playfulness.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They are well-suited for active families or people who enjoy outdoor activities.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and need plenty of exercise and physical activity to maintain their health and well-being. They are well-suited for active families or individuals who enjoy hiking, jogging, or other outdoor activities.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Shikoku dogs have a long history as hunting and working dogs, and are still used for these purposes in Japan. They can also excel in obedience, agility, and other dog sports.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Shikoku dogs have a strong hunting instinct and make excellent trackers, hunters, and scenting dogs. They may be easily distracted by small animals or wildlife, and should be supervised closely in outdoor environments.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Shikoku dogs have a high level of vigor and endurance, and are well-suited for active, outdoorsy lifestyles. They can keep up with their owners during long hikes, jogs, or outdoor adventures.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Shikoku dogs are generally healthy and have a long lifespan of 12-14 years. However, they may be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies. Regular veterinarian checkups and preventive care can help maintain their good health.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Shikoku dogs have a high energy level and require plenty of exercise and physical activity to maintain a healthy weight. However, they may become overweight or obese if given too many treats or allowed to become too sedentary.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Shikoku dogs have a thick double coat that provides good insulation against cold weather, but they may still need extra warmth and protection during extreme cold spells.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Shikoku dogs are adaptable to warm weather, but can become overheated or dehydrated if exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods of time. They will need access to shade, water, and air conditioning in hot climates.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Shikoku dogs are adaptable to different living environments, including apartments, but they will need plenty of exercise and playtime to prevent destructive behavior or hyperactivity. They may also become bored or restless if not given enough mental stimulation.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Shikoku dogs have a strong sense of independence and may wander or roam if not properly supervised or secured. They may also have a high prey drive and be tempted to chase small animals or wildlife.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Shikoku dogs are generally sensitive and can become stressed or anxious if exposed to harsh training methods or environments. They respond well to positive reinforcement and gentle, consistent training.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Shikoku dogs may experience separation anxiety or destructive behavior if left alone for long periods of time. They do best in homes where someone is present for most of the day, or where they have access to plenty of toys and mental stimulation.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Shikoku dogs are not excessive barkers, but will bark to alert their owners to potential danger or unusual activity. They may also bark out of excitement or playfulness, and early training can help prevent excessive barking.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Shikoku dogs are highly intelligent and enjoy a variety of mental challenges, including puzzle toys, obedience training, and agility courses. They may become bored or destructive if left without adequate mental stimulation.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Shikoku dogs can be challenging for novice owners to train and manage, due to their high energy level and independent personality. They may require a lot of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to develop good behavior.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Shikoku dogs are intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train. They may require consistent, positive reinforcement and plenty of mental stimulation to develop good behavior and obedience.

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History of the Shikoku

The Shikoku is one of the six native breeds of Japan and has been bred for hunting game in mountainous regions for well over a thousand years.

Originally, these dogs were used to track and hunt wild boar and deer, and they were prized for their stamina, loyalty, and bravery in the face of dangerous prey. Despite efforts to eradicate them during World War II, the breed survived with the help of dedicated breeders who have worked hard to preserve its unique characteristics.

Shikoku Puppies

Shikoku puppies are known for their curious and alert personalities from a young age and require early socialization to help them grow into well-adjusted adults.

Training should begin early, and consistent reinforcement of good behavior will help your Shikoku develop into a well-behaved adult. Exercise is vital for this breed, as they have high energy levels and require plenty of physical activity to keep them happy and healthy.