The Japanese native breeds of dogs Shiba is the oldest and smallest of the six Japanese native breeds. It is not clear where the breed originated from. However, it has been used as a hunting dog since 300 BC, to drive out birds, Rabbits and hunt for wild boars in the parks.
Japanese Red Shiba Inu
Source: rover.com
The breed was almost extinct after the second world war due to food shortage. However, different strains of the breed with minor physical differences between them continued to exist in good numbers. Three of those different types of the same species were crossbred to produce the present Shiba Inu.
Supposedly, the first Shiba Inu was brought to the United States of America by an Armed Services family in 1954, from Japan. They are becoming a popular breed in the Western world and still growing in popularity, as loved canine friends. Their red, red sesame, or black and tan fur colour and general look resemble that of a fox.
Cream Shiba Inu
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The Japanese native breeds of dogs Shiba are the smallest, but powerful, strong and well-proportioned dogs. Initially raised for hunting by sight and scent in the thick bushes and mountainous regions of Japan. They are robust, muscular and bold, vigilant and able to move fast with excellent senses.
Shiba Inu make great watchdogs and companionship. Both male and female have nicely compacted frames with well-developed muscles. Although different in their appearance. Shiba Inu are truly cute, smart, and easily lovable.
Sesame And Tan Shiba Inu
Source: quora.com
Height
The range for a male is 14.5 to 16.5 inches
Female 13.5 to 15.5 inches
Weight:
The average weight for Female – 17 lbs
For Male – 23 lbs
Appearance
- Fox-like facial features
- Stiff straight overcoat
- Soft thick undercoat
- The bushy tail has longer fur than the rest of the body
- The colours of different Shibas fur are, Red, Sesame, Cream, Black and Tan
- Triangular ears and deep-set triangular eyes
Grooming
Shibas need grooming 2 to 3 times a day and as frequently as possible during shedding season. They groom themselves a lot like cats, which makes them very clean animals. Trimming of the nails must occur regularly.
Training
Early obedience socialisation training is paramount as Shibas are known to be headstrong. They can be aggressive towards strangers. It takes a lot longer to train Shiba compared to other dogs. Therefore patience is required.
Environment
Shiba is known to be courageous, which makes them great for a watchdog. They are affectionate and with proper training, can make a good family dog, but not recommended for homes with young children and smaller dogs.
Black And Tan Shiba Inu
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Known for its pride and beauty and the face has a fox-like appearance, with triangular ears and deep-set triangular eyes. Shiba Inu are truly cute, smart and easily lovable. They are an active breed, more independent and need space to run around, need vigorous workout and long walks.
Shiba Inu can be vocal and have the ‘Shiba scream’ – a loud, high pitched scream, when provoked, or happy to see the owner come back home. They are known to be courageous, which makes them great for a watchdog.
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years – Shibas are a relatively very healthy breed.
The oldest Shiba lived up to 26 years of age, and during that time, it was the oldest dog alive, according to the Guinness Book Of Records.
Health
They suffer from health ailments such as allergy, glaucoma, cataract or hip dysplasia, Inward falling of the eyelid. Kneecap dislocation, joint problems which subside with growth. But all in all, Shibas are usually much healthier than other dogs, have good genes and hardly suffer from genetic defects.
Temperament
Charming, Keen, Alert, Fearless, Confident, Faithful.
Feeding
Feed your Shiba Inu using high-quality dog food, both commercially and homemade. Seek advice from your veterinary doctor if in doubt. Provide them with the right diet according to their ages (puppy, adult and senior), following the vet’s guidance. Make clean and freshwater available at all times.
Shiba Inu Colour Variation
Source: ramenchemestry.com
Not all Shibas are the same in their preferences of foods. Some can eat whatever is presented to them however, others can be picky. Find out which human foods are suitable for feeding your canine friend and seek advice from your veterinary doctor if in doubt. Ensure you make clean and fresh water readily available whenever they need it.
Although using treats during training your dog is great, watch out against overfeeding them, to avoid obesity. Keep your Shiba at a healthy weight. Their rib bones should be palpable but not seen. Carry out a regular check-up at the vet in case of any concern you may have about your dog’s health.
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