One of the so called “ancient breeds”, the Shiba Inu is the smallest of the Japanese dog breeds known today. Despite its size, the dog was used for hunting different game, like boar, bears, and also birds. Its name means both “brushwood” and “small”.
During World War 2 the breed almost became extinct, with only three surviving bloodlines. The existing dogs of today bear common characteristics to those specific specimens. Although the first Shiba Inu was brought to the United Stated in the 50s it was later in the 90s when the breed finally got recognized. Today the dog is bred as a companion everywhere in the world.
The Shiba is a compact dog, with the males measuring from 35 to 43 centimeters and the females 33 to 41. The preferred weight is 10 kilos for the males and 8 for the females. The head is proportioned in comparison with the body. The muzzle is rounded and the jaws meet in a scissors bite. The triangular eyes are deep set and dark in color. The ears are always erect and have a triangular shape. The tail is curled and carried over the back, in a sickle curve or in a ring.
The coat is double layered, with a stiff, straight outercoat and a thick, soft undercoat. The tail hair is a little bit longer, standing open in a brush. The coloration is varied, based on red, black or sesame, with different combinations: red with black overlay, black with tan markings, sesame with red markings. All of these variations come with a gray or cream undercoat. On the tail, legs and above the eyes, white coloration may appear. Marks can also be present on the throat, muzzle, and cheeks.
The Shiba Inu is easy to groom - it just needs to be brushed with a firm bristle brush. Bathing must be done only when necessary in order to keep the coats natural waterproofing.
If sufficiently exercised, this breed will feel comfortable in an apartment, being moderately active indoors. If you have a yard, the dog will feel excellent outside, whether the weather is cold or warm. If you keep the dog outside you must remember that this is a very sociable breed that needs constant attention.
The dog is brave, affectionate and intelligent. It is very clean and easy to housebreak. They will develop a strong bond with their family, which they will protect till the end. They are good with other dogs and pets as well as with children. If you are establishing a pack leader status, you will have no problem in controlling this breed.
The dogs life expectancy is around 12 to 15 years, so your companion will be by your side for a long time. If you decide to have a breed like the Shiba Inu as a companion, you can be positive that if you give it love, affection and attention, you will get back ten times more.
