Shiba Inu

                                                         Shiba Inu

AKA:Brushwood Dog, Japanese Small-Size Dog
Origin:Japan
Size:Small
Ease of training:Low/Medium
Grooming:Low
Shedding:Medium
Exercise needed:Daily walks
Energy level:Medium
Protection:Makes an effective watchdog
Good with children:Yes, if brought up with them
Health clearances:OFA
Popularity:65/155

Shiba Inu Temperament

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. 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.

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. 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. With proper socialization and training the Shiba Inu can make a loyal, loving, and entertaining pet and companions, but is not for the weak willed or for those with little time to dedicate to a pet.

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.

Shiba Inu 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.

Shiba Inu Health Problems and Life Expectancy

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.

Shiba Inu 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.