The Shikoku ( 四国犬; alternative names: Tosa-ken, Kochi-ken, Mikawa Inu) is a native, primitive Japanese breed of dog from Shikoku island that is similar to a Shiba Inu. The Shikoku is not a recognized breed of the American Kennel Club, but it is recognized by the Japanese Kennel Club, an organization recognized by AKC as an official foreign registry[1] (AKC recognizes the Shiba Inu, however). The Shikoku is also in the Canadian Kennel Club Hound group and the United Kennel Club, awaiting full recognition. In 1937 the Japanese Crown recognized the Shikoku dog as a living "natural monument" of Japan

Appearance and Size

The Shikoku stands 17–21 inches (43–53 cm) high and comes in sesame (white, red, black) or solid red. The body confirmation is typically of the spitz-type: the square body, the wedge-shaped head, the prick triangular ears, and feathered curled tail. The Shikoku dog is somewhat unique in its appearance. It looks similar to an Alaskan Husky dog physically, but differs in its size and color. The Shikoku Inu, when healthy, ranges from thirty-five to fifty-five pounds (male; approximately 20 inches tall) and from seventeen to thirty pounds (female; approximately 18.5 inches tall). This dog would be considered medium sized. The Shikoku Inu can be seen in a variety of colors, sometimes even mixed ones. These colors consist usually of a light brown, a light red-brown, or a light black-brown. In addition, there is a cream colored coat that tends to be very rare. In all of these colors there is usually a mixture of white found around the underside of the body, near the eyes, snout, and legs. The Shikoku tends to shed its coat at least one to two times a year. The dog has a fairly thick coat with pointed ears and a curved tail. Since this breed is so rare, any of the variety of color combinations would be considered a prize. 

Personality

It is cautious and brave with good judgment. It is also loyal to its master. It has sharper features than most Japanese dogs and is sometimes allowed to chase wild boar so it will maintain its nature. Shikoku dogs are tough and sufficiently agile to run through a mountainous region. They are the ideal companion for active outdoor people. They are very energetic and active outside but they are calm and quiet indoors. The Shikoku is a very intelligent dog and a quick learner. They are not as stubborn and independent as the other native Japanese breeds, but still it is not a dog for every person. 

Wikipedia and GNU

The content of this entry is from the Wikipedia article "Shikoku" licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License.