Shikoku Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Shikoku is an athletic, wolf-like Japanese spitz from the mountains of Shikoku island. It was bred to hunt boar and deer in steep country, and it has great stamina, a loyal nature and a sesame-colored coat.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the remote, mountainous region of Kochi on Shikoku, where isolation helped preserve a type close to old Japanese hunting dogs. Shikoku are medium-sized and muscular, with a wedge-shaped head, erect ears, a dense double coat usually in sesame, red or black and a tail curled or sickle-shaped over the back.

Temperament

They are loyal, alert and energetic. They bond closely with one person or family. They are reserved with strangers, may be dominant with other dogs and have a strong prey drive. They are intelligent and independent. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need extensive daily exercise, with fast walks, hiking, running and games. They are tireless on trails. They need very secure fencing, since many climb and chase wildlife.

Training

They are intelligent and sensitive. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. Avoid harsh corrections. Do not expect a reliable off-lead recall. Calm, consistent handling works best. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The double coat sheds heavily twice a year and needs weekly brushing, more in shedding seasons. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

The breed is generally regarded as hardy. Topics include:

• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Eye conditions, with exams
• Hereditary conditions, hard to estimate with a small gene pool

Living with a Shikoku

A Shikoku fits a home with a high fence, regular trail time and an owner who enjoys training. It may be poorly matched to a first-time owner or a household with cats, rabbits or free-roaming chickens. Many are tidy and quiet indoors once exercised.

A typical day

Typical days include an energetic trail walk or run, a training session, a long rest and an evening patrol of the yard. Many Shikoku watch the household calmly from a favorite spot.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are athletic and curious. Provide plenty of safe exploration, socialization with calm dogs and people and early handling for grooming and vet visits. Do not skip training, because an untrained adolescent can be a handful. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Costs include a strong harness and long line, secure fencing, training classes, good food and vet care. Importing a puppy from Japan, where the breed is more common, can be a significant expense. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

The thick coat suits cool, damp conditions, but Shikoku can overheat in heat. Exercise at cooler hours and offer shade. Travel is usually fine with a secure crate and a gradual introduction.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include poor socialization, underexercising, trusting the dog off lead and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about health history and the parents' temperaments. The breed is rare, so expect a long wait.

A dog of the mountains

The Shikoku is sometimes called the Kochi Ken, after its home prefecture. Hunters prized its stamina and boldness, and some dogs were used on wild boar. The breed was designated a natural monument in Japan in the 1930s, according to commonly cited accounts.

Strong bonds, high energy

Shikoku are often described as devoted but demanding. A bored dog may become destructive, while a well-exercised one can be calm and clean. Plan for daily trail time and mental work, such as scent games and training.

Daily care checklist

• A long outing on a sturdy lead.
• Brushing, extra in shedding seasons.
• A training or scent session.
• A fence and gate check.
• Fresh water and a cool resting place.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Shikoku suits very active, experienced owners who want a rare, athletic Japanese spitz and accept reserve and prey drive. It may not suit homes with small pets or beginners. For a related Japanese breed, see the Kai Ken.

The takeaway

Shikoku are athletic, loyal and energetic, and they need exercise, socialization and secure fencing.