Shikoku 四国犬

 

Area of origin: Shikoku island, Kochi prefecture

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Left and right -  photo/owner: K. Kardasz, YOSHIHARUZAKURA GO Kachidoki Okamotosou, in the middle - puppy, owner/photo: Tibor Tóth, Rinzetaru Ayumi

Size:

Height (NIPPO standard): male 49-55 cm, female 46-52 cm

Height (FCI standard): male 52 cm (+/- 3 cm), female 49 cm (+/- 3 cm)

Weight: male 16-22 kg, female 14-18 kg

Coat colors: sesame (goma), red (aka), black and tan (kuro), and white/cream (shiro). White is not desirable in the Shikoku and is penalized heavily in the conformation ring. Black and tan is not very popular in the show ring. Two types of goma are preferred: agouti type (black sesame = kuro goma, prevailing more dark/ black hair), sable type (red sesame = aka goma, with more red hair prevailing)

Fun fact: 

Shikoku are said to be the most agile and vigorous hunters out of all 6 original Japanese breeds.

Shikoku was designated a living national monument in 1937.

Breeders in Slovakia: None, in future possibly in Wakizashi of Tianito kennel


Shikoku used to be called also Kochi ken . Furthermore, name Tosa ken was used, however, this was stopped due to misunderstandings when reference to Tosa ken was often mistaken for Tosa inu dogs.

This compact, muscular and rather slim, medium-sized breed used to be used for big game hunting, thanks to its excellent prey drive. Similarly as with other original Japanese breeds (except Kai and white colored dogs), Shikoku must have urajiro

.

Main registry is run by Nihon Ken Hozonkai (NIPPO) which is also the case for Shiba and Kishu. The breed had similar history as other japanese breeds during and post WWII times when it faced serious issues due to dramatic number decreases . Luckily, thanks to the cooperation of the breed enthusiasts and NIPPO organization they managed to preserve and bring the breed back. Shikoku was recognized as a national treasure/ monument by Japan as the last dog breed, in 1937.


 

Photo/owner:  Karolina Kardasz, male YOSHIHARUZAKURA GO Kachidoki Okamotosou