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Shikoku dog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Shikoku dog so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Companion Dogs
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OriginJapan flagJapan
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Shikoku dog known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
Japanese WolfdogKochi-kenMikawa InuShikoku dog
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Shikoku dog? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Shikoku dog Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Shikoku dog? Learn how big the Shikoku dog breed typically grows.
LargeMedium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Shikoku dog weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Shikoku dog breed.
Male: 35-50 pounds (16-23 kg), Female: 30-45 pounds (14-20 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Shikoku dog?
Male: 42.5 pounds (19.5 kg), Female: 37.5 pounds (17 kg)
Height
How tall is the Shikoku dog? Shikoku dog height:
Male: 18-20 inches (46-51 cm), Female: 17-19 inches (43-48 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Shikoku dog?
Male: 19 inches (48.5 cm), Female: 18 inches (45.5 cm)

Shikoku dog Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Shikoku dog puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Shikoku dog costs.
$500-$800
If you choose to purchase the Shikoku dog, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Shikoku dog for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Shikoku dog gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Shikoku dog? How many Shikoku dog are there in the world?
Average: The Shikoku dog is a commonly available dog breed. There is less risk of overbreeding compared to the very popular dogs.

Of course, they may be more popular in some countries, and inbreeding may occur, so be careful.

Shikoku dog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Shikoku dog? Discover the Shikoku dog's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Shikoku dog ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Shikoku dog? Learn about the Shikoku dog's trainability and response to training methods.
Shikoku dog dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Shikoku dog as a watchdog? Learn about the Shikoku dog's alertness and guarding instincts.
Shikoku dog dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Shikoku dog protective of its territory? Learn about the Shikoku dog's guarding instincts and behavior.
Shikoku dog dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Shikoku dog Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Shikoku dog have? Learn about characteristic Shikoku dog temperament and behavior traits.
AgileEnergeticIntelligentLoyalBraveCautious
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Shikoku dog sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Shikoku dog dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Shikoku dog a good family dog?
High: Shikoku dog dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Japanese Wolfdog need? Shikoku dog social needs:
Shikoku dog dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Shikoku dog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Shikoku dog roam?
Shikoku dog dogs have average wanderlust potential. Sometimes they like to explore the world and they might escape once or twice, but usually, they prefer staying safely at home. Safer to teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Shikoku dog have high prey drive?
Shikoku dog dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Shikoku dog Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Shikoku dog bark a lot? Learn about typical Shikoku dog vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Shikoku dog rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Shikoku dog? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Shikoku dog breed.
Average: Shikoku dogs, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Shikoku dog live in an apartment? Learn about the Shikoku dog's suitability for apartment living.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Shikoku dog indoors.

Shikoku dog Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Shikoku dog to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Shikoku dog's flexibility to new situations.
Average: Shikoku dog dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Shikoku dog be left alone? Learn about the Shikoku dog's tolerance to solitude.
Shikoku dog dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Shikoku dog Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Shikoku dog biting potential? Learn about the Shikoku dog's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Shikoku dog has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Shikoku dog mouthy? Learn about the Shikoku dog's tendency to use mouth during play.
Shikoku dog dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Shikoku dog dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Shikoku dog bite? Learn about the Shikoku dog's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Shikoku dog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Shikoku dog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Shikoku dog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Shikoku dog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Shikoku dog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Shikoku dog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Shikoku dog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Shikoku dog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Shikoku dog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Shikoku dog Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Shikoku dog live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Shikoku dog breed.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Shikoku dog: 11 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Shikoku dog handle different weather? Learn about the Shikoku dog's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Shikoku dog? Discover typical conditions affecting the Shikoku dog breed.
Shikoku dogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Shikoku dog need vet visits? Learn about the Shikoku dog's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The Shikoku dog should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Shikoku dog Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Shikoku dog? Understand daily activity needs of the Shikoku dog breed.
Shikoku dog dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Shikoku dog need? How much exercise do Shikoku dog dogs require per day?

Do Shikoku dog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Shikoku dog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Shikoku dog breed need?
Shikoku dog dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Shikoku dog Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Shikoku dog prone to weight gain? Learn about the Shikoku dog's obesity risks.
Average: The Shikoku dog has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Shikoku dog weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Shikoku dog need daily? Learn about the Shikoku dog's feeding requirements.
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Shikoku dog Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Shikoku dog hypoallergenic? Learn about the Shikoku dog's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Shikoku dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Shikoku dog come in? Discover all possible Shikoku dog color variations.
Black Cream Black & Tan
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Shikoku dog need? Learn about Shikoku dog coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Shikoku dog doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Shikoku dog is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Shikoku dog drool a lot? Learn about the Shikoku dog's drooling habits.
The Shikoku dog drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool more than others, just like the Shikoku dog.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Shikoku dog smell bad? Learn about the Shikoku dog's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Shikoku dog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Shikoku dog have? Learn about the Shikoku dog's fur characteristics.
Soft
Bathing Needs
How often does a Shikoku dog need baths? Learn about the Shikoku dog's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do Shikoku dog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Japanese Wolfdog? Do Shikoku dog dogs shed a lot?
Shikoku dog dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Shikoku dog Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Shikoku dog good with children? Learn about the Shikoku dog's behavior around kids of different ages.
Shikoku dog dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Shikoku dog get along with other pets? Discover the Shikoku dog's compatibility with other animals.
Shikoku dog dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Shikoku dog temperament with other people:
Shikoku dog dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Shikoku dog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Shikoku dog breed live with a cat?
Shikoku dog dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Shikoku dog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Shikoku dog dogs get along with other dogs?
Shikoku dog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Shikoku dog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Shikoku dog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Shikoku dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Shikoku dog dogs good office canines? Do Shikoku dog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Shikoku dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Shikoku dog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Japanese Wolfdog temperament with senior people? Are Shikoku dog dogs good for elderly owners?
Shikoku dogs are commonly okay with elderly people.

Shikoku dog As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Shikoku dog be a service dog? Learn about the Shikoku dog's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Shikoku dog is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Shikoku dog good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Shikoku dog's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Shikoku dog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Shikoku dog good at detection work? Learn about the Shikoku dog's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Shikoku dog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Shikoku dog do search and rescue? Learn about the Shikoku dog's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Shikoku dog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Shikoku dog good on boats? Learn about the Shikoku dog's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Shikoku dog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Shikoku dog pull carts? Learn about the Shikoku dog's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Shikoku dog is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Shikoku dog used in military service? Learn about the Shikoku dog's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Shikoku dog Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Shikoku dog usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-6 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Shikoku dog pregnant? Learn about the Shikoku dog's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Shikoku dog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Shikoku dog have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Shikoku dog Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Shikoku dog in? Learn about the Shikoku dog's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Shikoku dog in? Learn about the Shikoku dog's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Shikoku dog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Shikoku dog doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Shikoku dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Health Concerns: Shikoku dogs tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Shikoku dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Shikoku dog drools quite a lot, so if you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, you may want to choose another dog breed.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Shikoku dog dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Shikoku dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Shikoku dog History

The original Shikoku or in its other name, Kochi-ken have existed in the mountain ranges of Kochi Prefecture, on the fourth largest island in Japan, the Island of Shikoku. This remote area is defined by the mountainous terrain, that is not really accessible for outsiders. This is the reason why, during the creation of the Shikoku, the breeders were capable to maintain a high degree of purity in their ancestry. Moreover, those who developed and preserved the Shikoku were staying in isolation from each other, limiting the ability to crossbreed their own lines, preventing any malfunction in the DNA bases. This isolation contributed to the breed development into different strains. There were two initial bloodlines, which can be traced back to five different strains that were easily identifiable by their unique marks.

Resembling another type of Spitz dogs, the Shikoku-Inu was originally bred for hunting purposes. Unlike most breeds, they were not developed to hunt in packs, yet rather to work individually with their companion, to track and trap larger game including, wild boar and deer. Thanks to the mountainous terrain, which was usually covered with thick under brushes and bamboo, the breed got used to this working environment, leading to being very agile and hardy dogs, capable to work in rough, remote areas, sometimes without any help. The breed was highly esteemed by the Matagi, the Japanese hunters. The hunters used two different techniques; the barking to detain and the biting to detain. Mostly the dog’s duty was to track down the animal, then hold them in position long enough for the hunter to arrive and terminate them. When it came to a larger specimen of wild boar, it took courage and sturdiness for the dogs to be able to keep the animals in position. This behavior left its mark on today’s Shikoku’s characteristics as well.

During the Tokugawa period, the Japanese foreign policy was based on isolation, thus, the Shikoku-Inu got preserved for centuries. Although the introduction of Western breeds began to influence the Japanese culture, moreover foreign dog breeds started to be more valuable and popular than their Japanese counterparts, leading to a decrease in the breeding of native breeds. However, fortunately, in the early 20th century, with the rise of Japanese nationalism, the native breed’s revival process had begun. In 1937, this culminated in the description of several Japanese dog breeds, including the Shikoku-Inu as “Living National Monuments”, which afforded the existing dogs, and the breeding programs some protection.

Nowadays, the Shikoku-Inu remained rare outside its homeland, and the breed is not widely recognized by the major kennel clubs. The Shiba-Inu is far more popular in the Western world, and because of the high degree of resemblance between the two breeds, some are still mistaking the Shikoku for a Shiba, nonetheless, it is two very different breeds.

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