The Shikoku Inu (四国犬, Shikoku-ken) or Kōchi-ken (高知犬) is a Japanese breed of dog from Shikoku island. It was designated as a national monument in 1937. Shikoku are typically brave but wary, and very alert to their environment. They should be sensitive without being nervous. Shikoku dogs are tough and sufficiently athletic to run through mountainous terrain. The dog’s overall movement is agile and it should walk with springy steps. They are an excellent companion for active outdoor people, though they can be very challenging to off-leash train. They are very energetic and active outside but they are generally calm and quiet indoors. The Shikoku is a very intelligent dog and a quick learner. They are not as stubborn and independent as some of the other native Japanese breeds, but still require patience to train. (Source: Wikipedia.org, CC BY-SA)