Shikoku

Kochi-ken, Mikawa Inu
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Shikoku is a medium-sized, intelligent Japanese dog breed originally used for hunting. They are known for being loyal and courageous but require a firm owner, early socialization, and daily exercise.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the mountains of Shikoku Island, Japan, primarily for hunting boar and deer.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female18.5 inches - 20.5 inches (49 - 52 cm)30 - 39 lbs (13 - 18 kg)
Male20.5 inches - 22.5 inches (52 - 55 cm)35 - 44 lbs (16 - 20 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Black Sesame
  • Red Sesame
  • Cream Sesame
  • Black and Tan
Type
  • Double coat
Length
  • Short to medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to heavy
Grooming
  • Regular brushing required, especially during shedding seasons
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Wedge-shaped
Skull
  • Broad and slightly flat
Ears
  • Triangular, erect, and slightly forward-sloping
Eyes
  • Relatively small, dark brown and triangular
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Moderately long, tapered
Teeth
  • Scissors bite
Neck
  • Thick and muscular
Forequarters
  • Well-muscled
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Powerful and well-developed
Hind Legs
  • Muscular and well-angulated
Feet
  • Compact, tight, with arched toes
Tail
  • Thick, carried curled or sickle over the back
Gait
  • Light, elastic, and agile

Temperament

  • Intelligent, alert, courageous, independent, and loyal

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate and loyal with family
Good with Children
  • Good with children if raised with them
Good with Dogs
  • Can be good with other dogs, but may require socialization
Good with Cats
  • May not be good with cats unless raised with them
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved with strangers
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Protective of their family and territory
Adaptability Level
  • Moderately adaptable

Working Roles

  • Hunting, companion animal

Exercise Needs

  • High; requires daily exercise and mental stimulation

Health

  • Generally healthy but can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye issues.

Additional Notes

  • A primitive breed with a strong prey drive, requiring a firm owner. They are known for their strong guarding instincts and need early socialization and training.

References