Shetland Sheepdog vs Shikoku
Breed Compatibility
73% Compatible
Energy Level
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Shikoku: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Shikoku: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Shikoku: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Shikoku3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Shikoku3/5
Good with Strangers
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
Shikoku3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Shetland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision problems
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
MDR1 Gene: Medicine sensitivity
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent family dog
Low maintenance cost
Good with children
Cons
Excessive barking tendency
Heavy shedding
Can be shy with strangers
Requires extensive grooming
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
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in the Shetland Islands during the 1800s, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and small livestock across rugged terrain while being compact enough to maintain on limited resources.
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
Shikoku
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Requires dedicated exercise and training commitment.
Shedding
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