Overview
The Shikoku is one of Japan's six native breeds, developed on the island it is named after as a hunting dog for boar and deer. It is sesame or brindle in colour, wolfish in outline, with a curled tail and the tight, efficient build of a dog used to steep terrain. It is extremely rare outside Japan.
The breed bonds tightly to its own people and treats everyone else with wary politeness at best. It is more energetic and more handler-focused than the Shiba, but still thoroughly primitive in outlook: quick to react, independent and interested in anything that moves.
Exercise and walking needs
Count on ninety minutes of real exercise a day for an adult. The Shikoku has endurance and agility, and it needs to use both. A fast hike with hills, scrambling and varied footing suits it far better than a flat lap of the park.
Give the mind a job as well: scent games, controlled tracking on a long line and training sessions that reward engagement with the handler.
On the walk
- Recall: Not to be trusted around wildlife. The dog may be good with its owner in a familiar place and still disappear after a deer. Enclosed ground only.
- Pulling: Strong for the size, and sudden when something catches its eye. A secure harness and a short lead near roads.
- Other dogs: Often intolerant of unfamiliar dogs, particularly of the same sex. Not a group-walk candidate without the owner's clear say-so.
- Alertness: The Shikoku notices everything first. Expect a frozen stare at distant movement and give yourself time to react before the dog does.
Tips for professional walkers
- Meet the dog on its home turf with the owner before you handle it alone, and go slowly.
- Use a harness with an escape-proof fit and check it every time; spitz breeds are good at backing out.
- Choose quiet, low-traffic routes with good visibility of approaching dogs.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog respond to a stranger taking the lead, and what helps it accept a new person?
- What triggers the dog most: deer, cats, other dogs or livestock?
- Has the dog had any incidents with other dogs, and is there a plan for unexpected encounters?