SHIBA INU
APPEARANCE
Although small, the Shiba Inu is a sturdy, well built, and agile dog. He always looks alert and keen. The coat of these dogs is straight and harsh to the touch, and coloring of the coat includes black sesame, red sesame, red, brindle, and black and tan. Some may also display white patches. The weight of the Shiba Inu is around 18-28 pounds, and the height is around 13-16 inches for females and around 15-17 inches for males.
PERSONALITY
An independent, strong minded, and hardworking dog, the Shiba Inu is a creature with plenty of spirit and courage. These are not clingy dogs and are not overly demanding, but he can be willful and stubborn, making him best suited to those with experience of dog ownership. The Shiba Inu is adept and digging and climbing, and is a confirmed pursuer of just about anything that crosses his path - it is essential that he is therefore in a safe and secured area whenever he is not on a leash.
TRAINING
Very fast and agile, the Shiba Inu is an intelligent dog and thrives on interaction and mental stimulation. These dogs can be possessive and manipulative when given half the chance, and they will need to be trained with a firm yet positive method. Early socialization is recommended with the Shiba Inu to promote a more stable temperament.
EXERCISE
Long walks can do a Shiba Inu a world of good, being a very active breed. However, it is also very undemanding and can easily adapt to any exercise regimen. They do need a fair amount of exercise, and when not on a leash this should be provided in a very safe, secure area to prevent him from escaping.
SOCIALIZATION
When brought up with them the Shiba Inu tends to get along well with children, although he does not take well to be handled roughly or teased. They can be aggressive around same sex dogs, and their high prey drive means that they may chase smaller animals. The Shiba Inu is also very territorial and will be suspicious of strangers, which adds to his watchdog abilities. The bark of the Shiba Inu can sometimes resemble and yodel and in some cases even a shriek.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Given its size, the Shiba Inu can live in small areas, provided that it is given sufficient exercise, preferably in a moderately sized yard. The breed’s all-weather coat allows it to adapt to both hot and cold weather. However, it is advised that it lives together with its owners, as it regards itself as part of the family.
GROOMING
The Shiba Inu is a low maintenance dog, which is ideal if you have little time to dedicate to grooming. You can keep his coat in good condition through brushing on a weekly basis, although this will need to be increased during periods of heavier shedding. The Shiba Inu sheds more heavily on a seasonal basis, and may therefore not be best suited to those with allergies.
HEALTH ISSUES
There are a number of health problems to look out for with the Shiba Inu, and these include luxating patella, HD, thyroid problems, and allergies. Other than this the Shiba Inu appears to be a relatively health and hardy breed. The parents of the Shiba Inu puppy should have OFA certificates.
HISTORY
The Shiba Inu originates from Japan, and has a very long history as the country’s oldest native breed. Once used as hunting dogs, they faced extinction in the middle of the twentieth century following an outbreak of disease. However, these dogs now enjoy popularity as household pets and independent companions. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1997.
