Shiba Inu Dog Breed and the CityCreate a page dedicated to your Shiba here. Or see the Shiba Inu pictures of other visitors.
AppearanceThe Shiba Inu dog breed looks just like a miniature version of its big brother, the Akita Inu. They're small, compact little dogs with pointed face and broad forehead. The ears are triangular in shape and stand up straight.The Shiba Inu has a plush double coat in a variety of colours; red, red with a black overlay (aka sesame), black and tan, white. Keep in mind that this breed sheds a lot. The nose is always dark, but the they should have white/cream-coloured, or in case of the black and tan, tan-coloured markings on the side of the muzzle, cheeks, throat, chest and underside. White is only allowed on the legs, tip of the tail and right above the eyes. The teeth should form a scissors bite.The Shiba Inu dog breed has a very thick and strong tail, very much like the tail of a Spitz. They carry it over the back either in a sickle curve or in a ring. They are around 13 to 16 inches hight (33-41cm) and weigh about 15 to 25 pounds (6,8-11kg), which makes it a perfect fit for an apartment.
TemperamentThe Shiba Inu dog breed is very lively and alert. It's also one of the cleanest dog breeds around, almost resembling a cat. Housetraining is no problem with this little puppy.It's a brave, confident, courageous and fearless breed. So keep a close eye on them so they don't get themselves in trouble.The Shiba Inu hardly ever barks which your neighours will surely appreciate. They can however let out an ear-piercing shriek.They bond closely with their owner, but can be reserved with strangers and other animals. This won't be a problem if you socialize them properly as a puppy. They are easy to train. But they're also stubborn and strong minded. If they feel you're not the pack leader, they will take over your household and make their own rules. Other dogs or cats won't be a problem as long as they were raised with them. They do have a hunting instict, so small pets like rodents or birds could be a problem. Unless you're a strong pack leader, don't let your Shiba Inu off-leash as they have a tendency to run away. Which is particularly dangerous during hunting season as the red Shiba Inu looks a lot like a fox. It's not too active inside. A yard would be great, but if you exercise your Shiba Inu enough, it's not necessary. Your Shiba Inu will be happier and healthier with regular exercise, but it will adapt if you temporarily have less time for daily exercise. If you like going for long walks, the Shiba Inu dog breed is a good choice. They have a tremendous endurance and can walk for hours on end. Behaviour problems can be avoided by daily walks and by being a confident, firm and consistent pack leader.
HealthcareThe Shiba Inu dog breed is hardy and healthy with very few genetic weaknesses. Some lines however suffer from slipped kneecap (patellar luxation), hip dysplasia and RPA.The coarse, stiff and short-haired coat is easy to groom. Simply remove the dead hairs with a firm bristle brush. Only bathe a Shiba Inu when it's absolutely necessary. The coat is naturally water-proof, washing it will remove this. The thick, double coat will shed a lot. And I really do mean, a lot. The Shiba has a life expecantcy of 12 to 15 years.
Breed BackgroundThe Shiba Inu dog breed is an ancient Asian breed. Originally from China, it's the smallest of the 6 Japanese Spitz-type dogs. During WWII the breed almost became extinct. After the war, the Japanese set up breeding programs with Shiba Inus from the countryside to help keep the breed alive.It's the most popular dog breed in Japan and it's rapidly gaining popularity in the United States as well. Although they were originally bred to flush birds and hunt small game, they are now mostly used as companion dogs. If you want to keep your Shiba busy, focus on the following talents; tracking, hunting, guarding, watchdog, agility and performing tricks (doggy dance anyone?).
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