vs
Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.
Compare Shikoku and Saluki side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.
Breed traits
Character & behavior
Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone
Lifestyle fit
Apartment-friendly
No
No
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
No
No
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs
Physical & general
Life span
12–15 years
12–14 years
Weight
8–12 kg
20–30 kg
Height
40–55 cm
58–71 cm
Origin
Japan
Egypt
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Saluki and Shikoku are two distinct breeds with unique characteristics and origins. The Saluki, hailing from Egypt, is a sighthound known for its elegance and speed, while the Shikoku, originating from Japan, is a medium-sized spitz breed recognized for its agility and loyalty. Both breeds share a similar lifespan, ranging from 12 to 15 years, but differ significantly in size, weight, and certain behavioral traits. The Saluki is larger, weighing between 20 to 30 kg and standing 58 to 71 cm tall, whereas the Shikoku is smaller, weighing 8 to 12 kg and measuring 40 to 55 cm in height. Their energy levels are comparable, but the Saluki has slightly higher exercise needs, making it more suitable for active owners. Additionally, the Saluki is more sociable, while the Shikoku is more protective, which might influence the choice for potential owners based on their lifestyle and preferences.
Shikoku — Advantages
Good with kids
Higher climate tolerance for cold weather
Moderate exercise needs
Protective nature
Moderate grooming difficulty
Higher climate tolerance for cold weather
Moderate exercise needs
Protective nature
Moderate grooming difficulty
Disadvantages
Smaller size may not suit all owners
Lower sociability compared to Saluki
Higher shedding level
Not suitable for first-time owners
Lower sociability compared to Saluki
Higher shedding level
Not suitable for first-time owners
Saluki — Advantages
Sociable and friendly with people
Good with kids
Higher climate tolerance for hot weather
Lower grooming difficulty
Moderate noise level
Good with kids
Higher climate tolerance for hot weather
Lower grooming difficulty
Moderate noise level
Disadvantages
Requires more exercise
Not suitable for apartment living
Lower protectiveness compared to Shikoku
Moderate shedding level
Not suitable for apartment living
Lower protectiveness compared to Shikoku
Moderate shedding level
Frequently Asked Questions
Which breed is better for families with children?
Both breeds are good with kids, but the Saluki is generally more sociable.
How much exercise do these breeds need?
The Saluki requires more exercise than the Shikoku, making it suitable for more active owners.
Are either of these breeds good for first-time dog owners?
Neither breed is recommended for first-time dog owners.
How do these breeds handle cold weather?
The Shikoku has a higher tolerance for cold weather compared to the Saluki.
What is the grooming requirement for each breed?
Both breeds have moderate grooming difficulty, but the Shikoku has a higher shedding level.
free Saluki adoption listings
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
843 views
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
676 views
Beautiful Shihpoo Puppies
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
606 views
Multi Gen Golden Doodles puppies available
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
558 views
Saluki male looking for a calm and committed home (free adoption)
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
1505 views
Saluki Adoption – Elegant and Noble
Male
Educated
Free Adoption
1499 views