Shikoku Breed Guide
Also known as: Shikoku Inu, Kochi-ken, Japanese Wolfdog
Rare Japanese hunters, Shikokus are loyal, energetic primitive dogs whose independence and devotion make them remarkable companions for experienced owners.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
16-25 kg
Lifespan
10-13 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
16-25 kg
Lifespan
10-13 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
About Shikokus
Developed in Japan on the island of Shikoku, the Shikoku was bred as a hunting dog for tracking wild boar in challenging mountain terrain. Their distinctive sesame-coloured coat and primitive spitz-like features made them excellent hunters and earned them designation as a national monument in Japan.
Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming but sheds seasonally. Shikoku are independent and alert, known for their strong hunting instincts and quiet dignity.
They are devoted to their families but can be reserved with strangers. Shikoku need moderate exercise and excel at activities that engage their hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Shikokus
Expert advice on keeping your Shikoku healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Successfully managing a Shikoku's dietary needs requires patience and understanding of their unique eating habits. These intelligent dogs often display selective eating behaviours, making mealtime a potential challenge for owners. Establishing consistent feeding routines in a quiet, calm environment helps encourage regular eating patterns and reduces stress-related food aversion.
Providing a balanced, high-quality diet forms the foundation of proper nutrition for your Shikoku. Focus on premium dog foods that contain appropriate ratios of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to support their energetic lifestyle. Careful portion control plays a vital role in maintaining optimal health, with meals tailored to your dog's age, size, and activity level.
Monitor your Shikoku's food intake carefully, adjusting portions as needed to maintain a healthy weight. While treats serve as valuable training tools, they should constitute no more than 10% of daily caloric intake. Consider using portion-controlled meals rather than free-feeding to prevent overfeeding and maintain better control of your dog's diet.
How healthy is your Shikoku?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Shikokus from our community of pet parents
A Shikoku dog typically has a bold, spirited, and alert temperament. They are known for their loyalty and faithfulness to their owners. They are also intelligent and can be somewhat reserved, especially with strangers, but they are generally friendly once they get to know someone.
Dog Breeds Similar to Shikoku
Explore breeds with comparable temperament, size, and care requirements to the Shikoku
Shiba Inu
Japan's fox-like companions, Shiba Inus are independent, spirited dogs whose clean habits and confident nature appeal to those appreciating primitive breeds.
Kai Ken
Rare Japanese hunters with brindle coats, Kai Kens are loyal, independent dogs whose primitive nature appeals to those appreciating ancient breeds.