Shikoku Ken
The Shikoku Ken is described by the AKC as alert, energetic, enthusiastic, originally from Japan.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 17-22 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 35-55 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Energetic / Enthusiastic [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | Japan [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 231 of 202 [2] |
| AKC status | Foundation Stock Service (not yet fully recognized) [1] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or being taken for walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks. Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. [1]
Grooming
Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep them clean and looking their best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your dog. The strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The majority of Shikoku Kens are healthy dogs, and working with a responsible breeder, those wishing to own a Shikoku Ken can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. Good breeders utilize genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC lists the Shikoku Ken in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 231 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Japan as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- Our sources don't publish fit ratings for this breed. Meet the breed, talk to breeders or rescues, and read the profile above.
Common questions
How long do Shikoku Kens live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a Shikoku Ken get?
AKC breed information lists height 17-22 inches and weight 35-55 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Shikoku Ken?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Shikoku Ken, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.