The Shiba Inu is a strikingly handsome and courageous member of the Non-Sporting Group. With tis beautiful variety of soft colors, this dog is physically compact with adorable short ears, a thick coat of fur, and a muscular body. They have an expression of peace and alertness, always ready for the next adventure.
The temperament of
the breed is best described as bold, independent, literally brimming
with self-confidence. They are one of the best all-around house dogs
to have because they are active and adventurous outside, but once
indoors become calm and mild-mannered. The Shiba Inu tends to bark a
lot, especially at the presence of intruders, making them excellent
watchdogs.
A Brief History Of
The Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is
one of six native Japanese breeds. In fact, these dogs are said to be
the most ancient of them all. They were used to hunt and flush out
small game, gaining the nickname “little brushwood dog” in
reference to its red coat which blended in with the local brushwood
trees.
The precise origin
of the Shiba Inu is not known, but we do know that they share common
blood with the spitz. The breed may have its roots dating as far back
as 300 B.C. as hunting companions throughout Japan. From hunting
small game and flushing out birds, these dogs were also used to help
hunt wild boar.
At one point there
were three variations. They were known as the Sanin Shiba, the Mino
Shiba, and Shinshu shiba. All were named after their locality.
Unfortunately, they were all but wiped out during World War II, then
further numbers lost by distemper during the early 1952.
In order to keep
the Shiba Inu from becoming completely extinct various types were
interbred. Lighter boned dogs were crossed with heavy boned dogs from
the mountain areas. These breeding efforts were a success and the
United States saw its first Shiba Inu dog in 1954, gaining AKC
recognition in 1993.
Upkeep Requirements
For The Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu
cannot live a happy lifestyle without plenty of daily exercise.
Although they are a small-sized breed, this dog has a never-ending
amount of energy to burn. Several long walks on the leash plus laps
around the yard each day is ideal. They especially love to chase and
hunt small animals.
With a moderate
tolerance to heat and a high tolerance to cool temperatures, the
Shiba Inu can spend lots of time outdoors, but is not meant to live
outside completely. If allowed to access a fenced-in yard during the
day be sure to provide warm shelter as well. Grooming requirements
for the breed consists of a brushing once or twice weekly.
Health Concerns
The average
lifespan of the Shiba Inu is between twelve and fifteen years. The
only major health concern that runs common in the breed is patellar
luxation. Minor health issues include allergies and cataracts. Rarely
seen is PRA, CHD, PPM, and distichiasis. Veterinarians suggest that
the Shiba Inu get specifically tested for eye, hip, and knee
problems.
History
The Shiba Inu comes
from Japan. It goes back to Japan’s Joumon period (10,00-300 B.C.)
Its origin has been proved with DNA analysis. Shiba has two
meanings: underbrush and small. These dogs are good at hunting in the
underbrush and they are small. They were used to flush out
birds and to hunt for wild boar.
There had been
three lineages of the Shiba Inu. But when the second world war ended,
this breed was nearly extinct. Thus, the three lines were mated with
each other to keep it going. The Cultural Properties Act of 1936
proclaimed this breed as cherished natural stock of Japan. The breed
was cataloged in the U.S. in 1954. The original litter known to be
born in the U.S. A. was birthed in 1979. The Chow Chow was
recognized by the AKC in 1993.
General Looks
It is a small
stoutly built and agile canine. This breed is compact but well
muscled. The eyes are set deeply and shaped like triangles. The neck
is thick.
Is This Your Breed?
It is an
independent breed and is usually retiring around strangers. It is
faithful and affable to people that gain its respect. It can easily
adapt to various environments. It needs regular exercise. The Shiba
Inu has to be obedience trained early on. It needs to be brushed each
week.
Coat
It has a double
coat. The outer coat is straight and unsupple. The undercoat is dense
and downy.
Color
The colors are
black, tan, brindle, red, sesame red, and sesame black. The undercoat
colors are buff, gray, and cream.
Locomotion
The movement is
adept, airy, and elastic.
Personality
This breed has a
strong will. The Shiba Inu is curious, smart, and alert. They like
fun. They are affable, friendly, tender- hearted, and
faithful. This breed will wander off; they like to explore. They can
be ornery toward other dogs. They make great watch dogs.