Shikoku Dog Breed Information

Group

Foundation Stock Service

Weight

16-23 kg

Height

46-51 cm

Lifespan

13-15 years

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About the Shikoku

Reviewed by:

Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe

Veterinarian

The Shikoku is a dog with exceptional stamina, strong instincts, a trusting temperament, and a high level of alertness. He is an avid hunter who is also submissive.

This Japanese dog breed is often confused with other Japanese breeds namely Akita and Shiba Inu relatives, and the Kai Ken and the Kishu.

Shikoku dogs may seem like a newcomer to the rest of the world, yet they have a long history in Japan. Let’s meet this captivating and rare dog breed.

What is the history & origin of the Shikoku?

The Shikoku, an old Japanese breed, is one of six native Japanese breeds. These dogs were initially used for boar hunting in parts of Kochi Prefecture and are between the smaller Shiba Inu and the bigger Akita Inu in size.

This intelligent and active breed, sometimes known as the Kochi-ken, previously included the Awa, Hongawa, and Hata types. Each dog was named for the region in which it was bred, and each was robust, agile, and intelligent.

Although the breed’s actual origins are uncertain, it is known that Matagi hunters created the Shikoku. Originally referred to as the Tosa Ken, the dog breed was renamed to avoid confusion with the Tosa Fighting Dog.

The hunting dog was given a natural monument in 1937 after efforts to preserve it started in the 1920s.

In 2010, the American Kennel Club permitted the Shikoku dog breed to compete in AKC Companion Events, despite not being recognised by them. Since 2014, Shikoku has been a member of the Foundation Stock Service and is recognised by the FCI (Fédération cynologique internationale) and UKC (United Kennel Club).

What is a Shikoku breed?

These native Japanese dog breeds are medium-sized and possess a thick, double coat and prominent ears.

Standard Shikoku Inu coat colours are black, sesame, and tan. There is, however, one non-standard hue, cream. Their underbelly is always white. There is also some white on its legs, around its eyes, and on its nose.

You cannot overlook the Shikoku’s triangular, tilted eyes that scrutinise everything intently, nor its long, bold snout that sniffs out prospective prey. Strong neck and limb strength enable the Shikoku to live up to its reputation as a ferocious predator.

Their powerful hindquarters allow them to reverse direction quickly. And their close-fitting, well-rounded feet enable them to maintain balance on challenging terrain.

Who is a Shikoku best for?

The Shikoku is an intelligent breed that sticks close to its family. Socialization is essential because this breed may be somewhat reserved among strangers and wary of other dogs. If they grow up together and the kids treat the dog with respect, they will get along well with the kids.

As a primitive breed, the Shikoku has a strong prey drive and should be watched among other animals. This breed requires great human engagement and mental stimulation to avoid becoming bored and developing undesirable tendencies.

They do well with families with children, okay with seniors, and are ideal for first-time owners.

Shikoku Grooming & Shedding

Once or twice a year, your Shikoku dog with its thick coat will shed significantly. It is advisable to brush them at least once every week to maintain their healthy, lustrous coat.

It’s sufficient to bathe them every few months or even three times a year. Use a shampoo that is gentle and which won’t irritate the skin. Check your dog’s ears regularly and clean them as necessary too.

Every few weeks, check the nails and trim them as needed. If your dog dislikes nail clippers, you may use a nail grinder instead. It’s also important that you establish a dental regimen to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Do Shikokus bark a lot?

In comparison to other dog breeds, the Shikoku barks less often. However, they guard and protect their territory, and if they detect something unusual, they will bark to inform you.

What is the average weight & height of a Shikoku dog?

Shikoku Inus aren’t particularly tall dogs. Male Shikokus grow to typically be between 46-51 cm and females between 43-48 cm.

Their average weight is between 16-23 kg for males and female dogs weigh between 14-20 kg so they aren’t very large.

Are Shikokus easy to train?

Despite being an intelligent dog, teaching it may be challenging and requires consistency and patience. And be aware that they have a stubborn streak. As with other dogs, they respond well to positive training methods and brief training sessions.

Socialisation is crucial and occurs naturally if they are brought to busy locations like dog parks. It will enable the breed to encounter unfamiliar people, noises, and situations, making them more adaptable.

Leash training is essential for reducing their prey drive. Start early to familiarise the puppy with the leash. Obedience training is also necessary for resolving the pack-of-the-leader problem. Training is essential to polish their abilities, improve their bond with their owner, and reduce their excessive barking habit.

How do Shikokus behave? A look at their temperament and personality

The Shikoku is an athletic hunting breed that enjoys chasing game in the great outdoors yet is docile and peaceful at home. They are exceptionally loyal to their owners and families but demand a certain amount of earned respect before considering someone a buddy.

Even though they are affectionate and playful with their family, Shikoku Inu are apprehensive of strangers and picky about who they choose to befriend. A well-socialized Shikoku is friendly with strangers; nevertheless, they are often disregarded if they are evaluated and deemed not to fit this dog’s high criteria.

This sensitive dog is extremely intelligent and quick to learn. They will thrive with plenty of outdoor activity, stimulating activities, and rigorous but kind parental guidance.

Does the Shikoku have any common health issues?

The Shikoku is a breed with a good reputation for its overall health. However, much like other purebred dog breeds, this breed is predisposed to specific diseases connected to its genetic makeup.

Breeders that are responsible put their adult Shikoku through a series of medical tests before breeding them to guarantee that they do not pass on any unwanted medical conditions.

The following is a list of ailments that your dog might be suffering from:

Hip, elbow, and knee dysplasia: Dysplasia is caused by improper joint development and is often suggested by indications such as limping or difficulty while standing, sitting, or lying down.

Luxating Patella: This disorder affects the knee joints and makes it possible for the knee to shift out of position while your dog walks about.

Epilepsy: This neurological condition may lead to seizure activity in dogs. Medications are often successful in treating epilepsy.

Allergies: As with most dog breeds, the Shikoku might suffer from allergic reactions by environmental factors, diet, flea bites, and other chemicals known as contact dermatitis.

What is the lifespan of a Shikoku?

The average lifespan of a Shikoku Inu is between 13 and 15 years.

How much does a Shikoku need to be fed?

Diet has a substantial impact on all dog breeds. Ensure that your Shikoku receives high-quality dog food that is rich in protein. If this is the first component stated on the box, it indicates a great quality dog food. It must also be grain-free, which applies to wet and dry food.

Consider that your dog will need to consume more water if it consumes just dry food instead of wet food or a combination of the two. The amount of food should depend on your dog’s health and the energy it needs every day. The manufacturer’s suggestions for daily portions are just a guide.

How much can you expect to pay for a Shikoku in Australia?

The Shikoku is still an extremely rare breed in most areas of the world other than its native Japan, and as a result, the cost of pups will reflect this fact.

You may have difficulty locating breeders, and once you do, you should be prepared to spend a minimum of $800 for one. This price may increase due to several different circumstances; some Shikoku dogs sell for as much as $5,000.

Shikoku FAQs

Is a Shikoku dog ideal for a first-time dog owner?

Due to their laid-back nature, Shikoku dogs are suitable for first-time owners.

Do Shikoku dogs suffer from separation anxiety?

Shikoku dogs are both independent and fiercely loyal. Some dogs suffer from severe separation anxiety and often bark excessively when left alone at home. They may also exhibit symptoms such as pacing, destructiveness, and anxiety.

Are Shikoku Dogs hypoallergenic dogs?

The Shikoku is not hypoallergenic as a result of its robust double coat.

Will a Shikoku Dog need professional grooming?

If you maintain their coat by brushing it twice each week, Shikokus do not need the services of a professional groomer. But if you don’t groom them regularly, the result may be that their coat becomes matted and drab.