Mountain Hunter

Shikoku Ken

The rare mountain hunter of Kōchi. Wolflike in build and gaze, agile, primal, and devoted to a single pack.

Origin

Kōchi Prefecture, Shikoku Island, Japan.

Size

Medium — 43–55 cm at the shoulder, 16–25 kg.

Temperament

Primal, agile, devoted to its people. Reserved and observant rather than boisterous.

History

Bred by matagi hunters to pursue wild boar through the steep forests of Shikoku. Recognized as a natural monument of Japan in 1937, still uncommon outside its homeland.

Care

Requires vigorous exercise, room to move, and thoughtful socialization. Strong pack instinct rewards a calm, consistent handler.