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SHIKA INUS |
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Additonal Breeds Starting With Letter:
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The Kishu, Kai Dog and Shikoku fall into the category of Shika Inu, or medium-sized Japanese dogs. They are very similar with overlapping colors and have only small differences in size and other fine points. Originally, these were all dogs that assisted the matagi, the professional hunters, with wild boar or deer. Known for their bravery, it is said that the Shika dog "will not concede a step before danger." Although mainly
working dogs, they all have been more or less adapted as companions and
guardians since the matagi profession has nearly disappeared.
The Kishu is
the matagi's dog from the mountainous regions of Wakayama and Mie prefectures
and has been known since before the Christian era. Although previously
used for deer, it was best known for boar hunting. The hunter's weapon
was the firelock, which could be fired only once before reloading. If
a wild boar was wounded, it could fatally charge the hunter, and the dog
was expected to courageously run interference until the hunter could reload.
It is not difficult to discern why the breed was noted for its "scarred
glory."
These dogs are
clean, silent and docile. Although they are useful in herding, as watchdog,
fishermen's helpers, or hunters* aides, many are also kept in the home.
The Kishu is distinguished from the Ainu Dog because he is a bit longer
in body proportions and,although cautious, is more benign of temperament.
The white coat tends to disappear in the snow, but has the advantage of
being easily distinguished from his dark-colored prey.
Used more for
deer, the Shikoku and the Kai are other varieties of the Shika (mid-sized)
dogs. As former hunting dogs of the matagi, they were often referred to
as "deerhounds." Coming from the mountains around Fuji and the
southern Alps region of Yamanishi prefecture, the Kai was considered too
rough to make a good house pet, being close to the wild in temperament.
Modern dogs are milder and some are now seen in homes. He is, however,
loyal to his master and a fine hunter. The Japanese say he is a one-man
dog with people. Hunted in packs, he is companionable with other dogs.
Brindling may not be apparent until after six months of age.
The Shikoku
is the final variety of Shika dogs, and is similar to the other two. His
home is Shikoku Island, across the inland sea from Osaka, where he was
also used for hunting. This smallest of the middle-sized dogs comes only
in solid reds and brindle color. None of the Shika dogs are known outside
Japan.
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