Shikoku vs Lagotto Romagnolo
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Shikoku: Regular Exercise0.6
Lagotto Romagnolo: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shikoku: N/A
Lagotto Romagnolo: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shikoku: Weekly Brushing0.4
Lagotto Romagnolo: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shikoku3/5
Lagotto Romagnolo3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shikoku3/5
Lagotto Romagnolo5/5
Good with Strangers
Shikoku3/5
Lagotto Romagnolo4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Lagotto Romagnolo
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Benign Juvenile Epilepsy: Early onset
Storage Disease: Metabolic disorder risk
Cerebral Dysfunction: Brain function issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Lagotto Romagnolo
Pros
Excellent nose work abilities
Minimal shedding
Highly trainable
Good with families
Adaptable to different environments
Cons
Requires regular grooming
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Expensive to purchase
Shikoku Fun Fact
One of only six native Japanese spitz breeds, the Shikoku was once so rare it was declared a Living National Monument.
Lagotto Romagnolo Fun Fact
The only breed specifically developed and recognized worldwide for truffle hunting abilities!
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Origin:
Dating back to Renaissance Italy's Romagna region, these skilled water retrievers evolved into specialized truffle hunters, using their exceptional nose work abilities to locate valuable fungi.
Special Considerations
Shikoku
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Requires dedicated exercise and training commitment.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Regular grooming needed to maintain curly coat. Requires consistent mental stimulation through training or nose work. Monitor for early signs of epilepsy or neurological issues.
Shedding
InfrequentRelated Comparisons
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