dog
This section is built around real-life travel and trail logistics, not generic pet advice.
This archive currently includes 7 posts in dog.
Is a Shikoku the Ultimate Hiking Dog? An Honest Assessment
An honest look at whether a Shikoku Ken makes a good hiking dog, based on years of trail experience, gear testing, and real temperament tradeoffs.
Everything you Need to Know for Raising your first Shikoku Puppy
What 6 years of raising Sora, my Shikoku Ken, taught me about socialization, prey drive, reactivity, and why this rare Japanese breed isn't for everyone.
Living and Adventuring with a Reactive Dog: Tips and Strategies
How I manage life and adventures with my reactive Shikoku, Sora: choosing quiet trails, muzzle and leash tools, off-leash dog encounters, and self-compassion.
Learning how to Paddleboard with Dogs
Step-by-step tips for kayaking with your dog, from introducing water and gear to building confidence on short paddles before bigger adventures.
Tips for Photography with your Dog
My tips for photographing your dog: continuous autofocus, tripods and remotes, long leashes, high-value treats, and simple Photoshop leash removal.
Favorite Dog Brands
The dog brands I trust for my Shikoku, Sora: Ruffwear harnesses and life vests, Banded Pines collars, Stella & Chewy's raw food, and the Impact crate.
Preparing for a Puppy
How I prepared to bring home my Shikoku puppy after 1.5 years on a breeder waitlist: crate and playpen setup, pet insurance, toys, and training prep.