Australian Shepherd vs Shikoku
Breed Compatibility
82% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Shikoku: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Shikoku: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shikoku: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Shepherd5/5
Shikoku3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Shepherd3/5
Shikoku3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Shepherd3/5
Shikoku3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Shikoku
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease risk
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia concern
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
Shikoku
Pros
Loyal and devoted
Athletic and agile
Excellent hunting instincts
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Requires extensive exercise
Can be aloof with strangers
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Shikoku Fun Fact
One of only six native Japanese spitz breeds, the Shikoku was once so rare it was declared a Living National Monument.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Shikoku
Origin:
Developed in Japan's Kochi Prefecture during the 17th century for hunting boar and deer in mountainous terrain. Valued for exceptional tracking abilities and endurance in rugged conditions.
Special Considerations
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Shikoku
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Requires dedicated exercise and training commitment.
Shedding
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