Shikoku vs Scottish Terrier
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
Scottish Terrier
Terrier 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.
Scottish Terrier Overview
Scottish Terriers showcase a distinctive silhouette with their short legs, compact body, and characteristic beard and eyebrows. Their wiry double coat comes in black, wheaten, or brindle. Standing proudly with an alert expression and dignified bearing, these sturdy terriers possess a bold, confident personality wrapped in a small but muscular frame.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Shikokus are less energetic than Scottish Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Shikokus require less grooming attention compared to Scottish Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Shikokus tend to be more reserved with strangers than Scottish Terriers.
- Trainability: Scottish Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Scottish Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Scottish Terriers 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 Scottish Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Shikoku | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Toy |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years | 12-12 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Foundation Stock Service | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Shikoku | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-22 inches 43-56 cm | 10-10 inches 25-25 cm |
| Weight | 35-55 lbs 16-25 kg | 18-22 lbs 8-10 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Unknown | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Shikoku | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Energetic, Alert, Enthusiastic | Confident, Independent, Spirited |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Shikoku | Scottish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Scottish Terrier Temperament
The Scottish Terrier is characterized by being confident, independent, spirited, 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 Scottish Terrier, 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
Scottish Terrier
Rating: 3/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Scottish Terrier
Rating: 2/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Scottish Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Shikoku
Rating: 1/5
Scottish Terrier
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Shikoku
Rating: 3/5
Scottish Terrier
Rating: 4/5
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.
Scottish Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Scottish Terriers 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, Scottish Terriers require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Shikoku Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Allergies
- Dental Issues
- Joint Problems
Scottish Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Craniomandibular Osteopathy
- von Willebrand's Disease
- Scottie Cramp
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy
- Patellar Luxation
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
Scottish Terrier
Pros
- Loyal and protective
- Low shedding
- Good watchdog
- Adaptable to various living spaces
Cons
- Stubborn streak
- High grooming needs
- Can be territorial
- Strong prey drive
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Shikoku and Scottish Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.