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Shikoku dog breed image gallery
Medium breed Regular energy Double coat Foundation Stock Service

Shikoku

Energetic, Alert, Enthusiastic

The original Shikoku, or Kochi-ken, existed in the mountain ranges of Kochi Prefecture on the Island of Shikoku. They were highly valued by the Matagi (Japanese hunters) as a tracker of game, particularly wild boar. He is a medium-sized dog with well-balanced and well-developed,…

⚖️ 35–55 lbs 📏 17–22" 🎂 10–12 years
Estimate Shikoku costs Find Shikoku names

Traits

Shikoku Characteristics

Energy

60%

Shedding

0%

Trainability

0%

Grooming

40%

Friendliness

0%

Coat Type

Double coat Weekly Brushing

Owner resources

Matched Resources for Shikoku Owners

Contextual partner picks from the PupWiki affiliate pipeline. These are matched by breed size, energy, training needs, lifestyle, and ownership intent.

Shikoku food & nutrition tools
ChefPaw Dog Food Maker
Chef Paw (US) · Appliances

ChefPaw Dog Food Maker

Revolutionary countertop pet food maker, simplifying the process of crafting fresh and highly-nutrit…

$639.98 Shop now →

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Shikoku training & walking gear
🐾
JugBow · Training

JugBow No-Pull Training Harness

Dual-clip training harness with front and back D-rings. Reflective stitching, padded chest plate, an…

$34.99 Shop now →

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

For Shikoku owners
The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas
Crown and Paw · Gifts

The Veteran - Custom Pet Canvas

Premium 8" x 10" custom pet canvas. Turn your pet into a legendary military veteran.

$46.86 Shop now →

Affiliate link — no extra cost to you

Affiliate disclosure: PupWiki may earn a commission from qualifying partner links, at no extra cost to you. Availability and pricing can change.

Care basics

Shikoku Care Tips

Benefits from 30-60 minutes daily exercise — walks, play sessions, or swimming.

Owner fit

Who the Shikoku Suits

  • Best suited to owners with some dog experience — difficulty rated 4/10.

  • Urban-friendly: adapts well to apartment or townhouse living when daily exercise is consistent.

  • Naturally energetic and protective, this breed fits best with early socialization and clear routines.

Grooming commitment: moderate-high — undercoat rake required; blows coat twice yearly

Before you choose

Make an Informed Shikoku Decision

🐾 Is this breed right for me?

Compare your lifestyle, home, experience level, and activity needs.

 💰 What does a Shikoku cost?

Estimate puppy, annual, food, care, and lifetime ownership costs.

 📋 New to dog ownership?

Prepare your home, budget, routine, and expectations before adoption.

Related guides

All Shikoku Guides

Shikoku Cost Calculator

Puppy price, annual costs, food estimate, and lifetime ownership planning.
🍖 Shikoku food & nutrition guide 🎾 Shikoku toy & enrichment ideas ✍️ Shikoku names 🛏️ Shikoku bed & sleep guide ✂️ Shikoku grooming guide 🩺 Shikoku health concerns 💊 Shikoku supplement considerations 🦮 Shikoku training guide

Classification

FCI Classification

FCI Group Group 5 — Spitz and Primitive Types
Section Aziatische keeshonden
Status Recognized

Editorial guides

Food Fresh dog food tools: what to compare

A practical look at fresh-food prep, cost, and owner fit.
Training Training gear for dogs that need structure

Harnesses, long lines, and reward routines for better walks.
Lifestyle Dog lover gifts that feel personal

Custom portraits and practical dog-parent gift ideas.