Shikoku vs Bergamasco Sheepdog
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Shikoku
Foundation Stock Service
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Herding Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Overview
Bergamasco Sheepdogs feature distinctive matted coat flocks that naturally form to protect them while herding. Their robust build combines strength with agility, standing 23.5 inches at the shoulder. The unique three-layered coat consists of fine, goat-like hair, woolly hair, and outer guard hair that merge to form the characteristic flocks. Their intelligent eyes and alert expression reflect their keen herding instincts and watchful nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Shikokus are more energetic than Bergamasco Sheepdogs, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Shikokus require more grooming attention compared to Bergamasco Sheepdogs.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Shikokus tend to be more reserved with strangers than Bergamasco Sheepdogs.
- Trainability: Bergamasco Sheepdogs may be slightly easier to train due to their Bergamasco Sheepdog's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Bergamasco Sheepdogs adapt better to apartment living, while Shikokus typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Shikoku and Bergamasco Sheepdog, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Shikoku | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years | 13-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Herding Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Shikoku | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-22 inches 43-56 cm | 22-24 inches 56-60 cm |
| Weight | 35-55 lbs 16-25 kg | 57-84 lbs 26-38 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Unknown | Infrequent |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Shikoku | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Energetic, Alert, Enthusiastic | Independent, Sociable, Intelligent |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Shikoku | Bergamasco Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Shikoku Temperament
The Shikoku is known for being energetic, alert, enthusiastic, 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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Temperament
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is characterized by being independent, sociable, intelligent, 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 Shikoku and Bergamasco Sheepdog, 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
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 2/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Shikoku
Rating: 1/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Rating: 2/5
Care & Maintenance
Shikoku Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Shikokus 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, Shikokus require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Bergamasco Sheepdogs 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, Bergamasco Sheepdogs require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Shikoku Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Allergies
- Dental Issues
- Joint Problems
Bergamasco Sheepdog Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems
- Bloat
- Elbow dysplasia
- Allergies
Pros & Cons
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
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Pros
- Excellent guardian instincts
- Low-shedding coat
- Intelligent and trainable
- Good with families
Cons
- Complex grooming needs
- Strong-willed nature
- Requires experienced owner
- Needs regular exercise
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Shikoku and Bergamasco Sheepdog, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.