The Shikoku is a medium-sized, well-balanced dog with a wolf-like appearance, characterized by its prick ears, wedge-shaped head, and curled tail.

Medium-sized, with males typically standing 19-21 inches and females 17-19 inches at the shoulder.

Generally ranges from 35-55 pounds.

Double coat with a harsh, straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat.

Primarily sesame (red sesame, black sesame, or sesame), black and tan, or cream.

Wedge-shaped with a defined stop and a strong muzzle.

Small, triangular, and pricked, standing erect and leaning slightly forward.

Thick and curled, carried over the back or in a sickle position.

Shikokus are known for their intelligence, independence, and alertness, exhibiting a cautious nature towards strangers and unwavering loyalty to their families.

Deeply devoted to their families, forming strong bonds with their owners.

Naturally watchful and make excellent watchdogs, quick to alert to anything unusual.

Possess a strong will and can be independent thinkers, requiring consistent training.

Reserved and wary of strangers, requiring early and thorough socialization.

High energy levels and require significant exercise and mental stimulation.

High prey drive, stemming from their hunting heritage; may not be suitable for homes with small pets without careful management.

Shikokus are best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training, ample exercise, and understand their independent and sometimes cautious nature.

Adaptable to different living environments (with sufficient exercise).

Require early and thorough socialization.

The ideal Shikoku owner is an active, experienced individual or family who understands and appreciates the breed's primitive traits, can commit to consistent training and socialization, and provide a secure and stimulating environment.

Shikoku care involves moderate grooming to manage shedding, a balanced diet suitable for an active breed, and a living environment that accommodates their energetic and alert nature.

Regular brushing (weekly or more during shedding seasons) to remove loose hair and maintain coat health.

Infrequent baths, only when necessary, to avoid stripping the coat of its natural oils.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Portion-controlled meals to prevent overeating and maintain a healthy weight.

Adaptable to various living situations, provided their exercise needs are met; a securely fenced yard is highly recommended.

Regular nail trims to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean ears regularly to prevent infections.

Shikokus require consistent, positive reinforcement-based training due to their independent nature, and ample daily exercise to satisfy their high energy levels.

Shikokus are intelligent but can be challenging to train due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. Positive reinforcement methods, focusing on rewards and motivation, are crucial. Early socialization and obedience training are essential to ensure a well-adjusted dog. Consistency and patience are key.

Shikokus are high-energy dogs that need a significant amount of daily exercise. This includes long walks, runs, hikes, or engaging play sessions. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys, obedience training, and scent work can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

Expose your Shikoku to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age to mitigate their natural cautiousness.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate and reward desired behaviors.

Establish clear rules and boundaries, and enforce them consistently.

Due to their high prey drive and potential for roaming, a secure, high fence is essential.

Essential for safe walks, given their hunting instincts and potential to chase.

Provide puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games to keep their minds engaged.

Shikokus are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position.

A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to deteriorate, leading to vision loss.

The Shikoku's history is deeply rooted in the rugged, isolated mountains of Shikoku Island, Japan. For centuries, these dogs were used by the *matagi* (traditional Japanese hunters) primarily to track and hold wild boar. Their remote origins helped preserve the breed's purity, resulting in a dog that closely resembles its ancient spitz ancestors. The breed was declared a “Living Natural Monument” of Japan in 1937, solidifying its cultural significance. While still relatively rare outside of Japan, the Shikoku has gained recognition from kennel clubs like the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Kennel Club (AKC, Foundation Stock Service), slowly growing in popularity among enthusiasts of primitive breeds.

Shikokus can be good with children they are raised with, provided they are properly socialized and the children are taught to respect the dog's boundaries. Supervision is always recommended.

Shikokus are not typically excessive barkers, but they will alert their owners to anything unusual. Their barking is usually purposeful.

Shikokus are generally clean dogs and can be housebroken relatively easily with consistent training and a regular schedule.

Shikokus need a significant amount of daily exercise, including long walks, runs, or hikes, along with mental stimulation.

Shikokus can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are met, but a house with a securely fenced yard is ideal.

Yes, the Shikoku is relatively rare outside of Japan, but their popularity is slowly growing.

Shikokus have a double coat and shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

The average lifespan of a Shikoku is 10-12 years, with some individuals living longer.

Shikokus are not inherently aggressive, but they can be wary of strangers and may exhibit protective behaviors. Early socialization and training are crucial to ensure a well-adjusted temperament.

Because the Shikoku breed is rare, especially outside of Japan, finding one might require patience and thorough research. Contacting Shikoku breed clubs or searching for reputable breeders specializing in Japanese dog breeds are good starting points.