Shikoku vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
73% Compatible
Energy Level
Shikoku: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Shikoku: N/A
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shikoku: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shetland Sheepdog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shikoku3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shikoku3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
Shikoku3/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
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
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
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
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 Fun Fact
One of only six native Japanese spitz breeds, the Shikoku was once so rare it was declared a Living National Monument.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
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.
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.
Special Considerations
Shikoku
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Requires dedicated exercise and training commitment.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.
Shedding
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