So you’re looking to adopt an Shikoku, or already have one?
According to the American Kennel Club, “The original Shikoku, or Kochi-ken, existed in the mountain ranges of Kochi Prefecture on the Island of Shikoku. They were highly valued by the Matagi (Japanese hunters) as a tracker of game, particularly wild boar. He is a medium-sized dog with well-balanced and well-developed, clean-cut muscles. He has pricked ears and a curled or sickle tail. His conformation is strong, well-boned and compact. His outer coat is rather harsh and straight and his undercoat is soft and dense. The hair on his tail is long. His coat can be red, black and tan, or sesame, which is a well-mixed color of black, red, and white hairs. The Shikoku is a dog of marked endurance, keen in sense with a naive feeling, energetic and highly alert. He is an enthusiastic hunter and docile towards his master.”
An Shikoku typically ranges from 43.18cm to 55.88cm in height, and weighs from 15.875732950000002kg to 24.947580350000003kg.
There are a few pet insurance companies in New Zealand that offer dog insurance for Shikoku breeds. Try Cove Insurance as they are currently offering a one-month free promotion. Typically Shikoku insurance ranges from $30 per month to $65 – but of course this varies depending on a range of other factors such as gender.