Schapendoes vs Shikoku
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Schapendoes
Foundation Stock Service
Shikoku
Foundation Stock Service
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Schapendoes Overview
Schapendoes are distinctive Dutch herding dogs with a shaggy, long-haired coat and expressive eyes. Their medium-sized, well-proportioned frame supports an athletic build ideal for agile movement. Known for their friendly and watchful nature, these dogs combine intelligence with a lively spirit. Their most striking feature is their abundant coat, which forms a natural mane around their face and neck.
Shikoku Overview
A medium-sized spitz breed with a muscular build and distinctive fox-like appearance, the Shikoku showcases a dense double coat in sesame, red, or black and tan colors. Athletic and agile, these dogs possess erect triangular ears, a curled tail, and sharp, alert facial features that reflect their keen hunting heritage. Their balanced proportions and confident stance embody the noble bearing characteristic of Japanese breeds.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Schapendoess are less energetic than Shikokus, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Schapendoess require less grooming attention compared to Shikokus.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Schapendoess tend to be more reserved with strangers than Shikokus.
- Trainability: Shikokus may be slightly easier to train due to their Shikoku's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Shikokus adapt better to apartment living, while Schapendoess typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Schapendoes and Shikoku, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Schapendoes | Shikoku |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 10-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Schapendoes | Shikoku |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 16-20 inches 41-51 cm | 17-22 inches 43-56 cm |
| Weight | 26-55 lbs 12-25 kg | 35-55 lbs 16-25 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Unknown |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Schapendoes | Shikoku |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Friendly, Watchful, Lively | Energetic, Alert, Enthusiastic |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Schapendoes | Shikoku |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Schapendoes Temperament
The Schapendoes is known for being friendly, watchful, lively, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Shikoku Temperament
The Shikoku is characterized by being energetic, alert, enthusiastic, which makes them better for households without small children. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Schapendoes and Shikoku, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Schapendoes
Rating: 3/5
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Schapendoes
Rating: 5/5
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Schapendoes
Rating: 3/5
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Schapendoes
Rating: 1/5
Shikoku
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Schapendoes
Rating: 3/5
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Schapendoes Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Schapendoess require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Schapendoess require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Shikoku Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Shikokus need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Shikokus require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Schapendoes Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- PRA
- Cataracts
- Epilepsy
- Dental Issues
Shikoku Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Allergies
- Dental Issues
- Joint Problems
Pros & Cons
Schapendoes
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Highly trainable
- Weather-resistant coat
- Athletic and agile
Cons
- Regular grooming required
- High exercise needs
- Can be vocal
- Strong herding instinct
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
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Schapendoes and Shikoku, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.