Shikoku Dog Breed Information – All You Need To Know

Just by looking at the Shikoku, you know it’s in a league of its own. This beautiful canine has adorable paws that can rip into anything (Not so adorable!). They have beautiful eyes that can peer into the deepest crevices of your soul. Their deep bark can destroy any blockades of sanity. Jokes aside, the Shikoku is a good companion with the right upbringing.

It loves staying in the limelight and in the arms of its owner. There are a few basic things that we believe you should know about this canine.

Shikoku History

The Shikoku is a large hunting dog that was bred around the 17^th Century in Japan. These canines were bred specifically in the Shikoku mountains hence their name. These canines were first named the Tosa Ken but were later renamed Shikoku. They renamed it because people kept confusing it with the Tosa Fighting Dog.

These canines were bred by matagi hunters, who wanted an agile canine. According to genetic experts, this canine has a spitz heritage. Despite their beautiful appearance and abilities, the Shikoku was nearly extinct by 1926. NIPPO was one of the organizations that realized the predicament this canine was faced with and made efforts to save it. These canines were added to the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service in 2014.

Shikoku Characteristics

The Shikoku looks like the German Shepherd. They have pointed ears and sharp eyes. Their coats are usually medium length, with color variations of Black and Red. They have a thicker coat around their necks compared to the rest of their bodies. These canines also have a thick undercoat, which makes them resistant to extreme cold. These canines also have stronger hind legs, which reduces their chances of Hip Dysplasia.

How Big do Shikoku Get

The Shikoku can be pretty intimidating when it reaches full size. The males of this breed will usually remain between 19 and 22 inches tall, while the females are usually 17 to 19 inches tall. The weight for an average should stay between 35 and 55 lbs.

How Long Does Shikoku Live

The lifespan of the Shikoku has been thoroughly examined. With the right care, you can expect it to live beyond 10 years of age. The average maximum limit for this breed is 12 years. If you don’t take care of its health, it won’t even make it past 6 years.

How Much Does a Shikoku Cost

Due to the rarity of this canine, its price has not been documented. However, since it is a rare and pure breed, rarely found outside of Japan, its price will stay above $700. The maximum price can go all the way to $1400 dollars. In some rare cases, the price can even go up to $5000.

Shikoku Temperament/Personality

The Shikoku was purely bred for its hunting abilities. Expecting it to get along with small pets or animals is asking for too much. Yes, socialization will make it friendlier, but it won’t erase or override its natural hunting instincts. You will have to supervise it around small children because improper handling will anger it. These canines are usually wary of strangers and can be trained to be good watchdogs.

Training them can also be a bit tricky because of their dominant nature. These canines need someone strong and firm to train them properly. You will have to be super careful about how you approach the training sessions. Using the same old training sessions or routines to train them will not be effective. You will need to be more creative and encouraging.

Caring for Shikoku

The following section will help you understand all of the technical details about your canine. By reading through them, you will be able to understand the needs of your canine.

Shikoku Nutrition

The Shikoku is a pretty big canine when it reaches full size. To keep it in optimal health, you will have to give it between two to three cups of dog food every day. Try to get food from brands like Pedigree Dog Food or Instinct Dog Food because these brands have been certified and verified for their nutritional dog foods.

How to Groom a Shikoku

Grooming the Shikoku isn’t that hard compared to other canines. To keep its coat free, you will have to brush it three to four times per week. The dental health of the Shikoku can be maintained by brushing its teeth every day or every other day. You can keep its paws safe from infections by trimming its nails every three weeks. Finally, bathe it only when it smells enough to need a bath. Excessive bathing will harm its skin.

Shikoku Activity Levels

The Shikoku is a fairly active canine. It will need between 60 minutes and 90 minutes of exercise. Ignoring its need for exercise could destroy its mental sanity and health. If you want to reduce the time it takes to exercise them, use a Dog Treadmill. The Shikoku will still need a short walk every day.

Caring for Shikoku

The Shikoku was not made to withstand high heat. People living near the equator need to be especially careful about keeping the Shikoku. The thick coat of this canine will warm it up excessively under intense sunlight. You will need to maintain a suitable body temperature for this canine through artificial means.

One such thing that you can do is get some Dog Cooling Vests. Your canine can wear them while you take them out for a walk. For indoor situations, you should get some Cooling Pads for Dogs. These can be placed in your canine’s bed to keep it cool. You should also try not to take it out for walks or activities in the afternoon. Arrange its outings in the evenings to remain safe.

Shikoku Health

There aren’t a lot of things that can pose a threat to the Shikoku’s health. Compared to other dogs, the Shikoku is way healthier. It has a stronger immune system and a sturdy body. However, nothing is invincible! Even the Shikoku can fall prey to different congenital defects and some age-related conditions. These conditions will hinder your canine’s growth and mobility. What can you do to save your canine from these conditions?

The answer is simple, take care of its lifestyle. Don’t let your canine’s lifestyle devolve into an unhealthy mess. Take care of its health as much as your can. Give it good food and daily exercise to maintain its health. The healthier you make its lifestyle, the better it will be. Finally, arrange at least one vet visit per month.

Breeds Similar to Shikoku

• Brazilian Terrier
• Alaskan Klee Kai
• Kishu Ken
• Serbian Hound
• Armant

Recommended Reading:

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Sources:

• Wag-Walking
• Hepper