At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
double coat
A well-balanced, muscular spitz slightly longer than tall, with small pricked triangular ears and a thick tail curled or sickle-shaped over the back. The outer coat is harsh and straight over a soft, dense undercoat.12
Personality what they are like
An energetic, alert hunter with plenty of stamina and sharp senses. With its own people it is gentle and loyal, and it makes a keen watchdog.12
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Bred to hunt in steep mountains, it enjoys long walks, hiking and climbing.21
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Moderate. Regular brushing keeps the double coat in order, with more brushing when the undercoat sheds.1
Home where they are happiest
Suits an active home with a secure garden and lots of outdoor time.2
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its owner and likes being included in family activities.12
The story where it all began
The Shikoku comes from medium-sized native dogs used for boar hunting in the mountains of Kochi, and it was declared a Natural Monument of Japan in 1937. Of its three historic strains, Awa, Hongawa and Hata, the modern breed comes mainly from Hongawa and Hata lines.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard No. 319, Group 5, Section 5 (Asian Spitz and related breeds); definitive acceptance 1 Feb 1982; current standard 30 Oct 20164
- UKC
- Recognised 2006, Northern Breed Group3
- AKC
- Foundation Stock Service breed2
- Japan
- Designated a Natural Monument in 19371
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Shikoku. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
- Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
- Bathevery 10 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkevery 2 weeks
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Shikoku, and at what times?
Feed your adult Shikoku at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent morning and evening times work well. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5
What should a Shikoku eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to your Shikoku's age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for a tailored diet.6
How often should I bathe a Shikoku?
Furry Diary suggests bathing about every 70 days, and the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. You can bathe more often if your Shikoku gets very dirty, using a dog-safe shampoo.7 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Shikoku need brushing?
Brush your Shikoku every few days to keep the double coat in good condition, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. This helps manage the undercoat and keeps your dog comfortable.1 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Shikoku's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid bleeding.7 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Shikoku need?
Your Shikoku needs daily vigorous exercise like long walks, hiking, or play. This energetic breed was bred for mountain hunting and has plenty of stamina, so keep it active.21 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Shikoku's teeth and ears?
Brush your Shikoku's teeth several times a week using dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for dirt or redness. Never push anything into the ear canal; just clean the outer part gently.7 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Shikoku live?
Lifespan varies by individual, so ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. They can give you the best guidance based on your dog's health and lineage.
Is a Shikoku good with children and other pets?
The Shikoku is gentle and loyal with its own family, so it can be wonderful with children when raised together. Early socialization helps it get along with other pets, though it has a strong hunting instinct.12
Can a Shikoku be left alone?
This breed bonds closely with its owner and enjoys being part of family activities, so it may not do well alone for long periods. For specific advice, talk to a breeder about your situation.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- FCI Standard 319 (English) fci.beused for history, temperament, size, coat, colours, facts
- Shikoku (dog) - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for names, recognition, history, facts
- UKC - Shikoku ukcdogs.comused for recognition, size, colours, temperament
- FCI - Shikoku (319) fci.beused for recognition
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- AKC - Shikoku akc.orgused for reference
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.