The is the smallest of the six original and distinct
breeds of
dog from
Japan.A small, agile dog that copes very well with mountainous terrain, the Shiba Inu was originally bred for hunting. It is similar in appearance to the
Akita, though much smaller in stature. Inu is the Japanese word for dog, but the "Shiba" prefix's origin are less clear. The word shiba usually refers to a type of red shrub. This leads some to believe that the Shiba was named with this in mind, either because the dogs were used to hunt in wild shrubs, or because the most common color of the Shiba Inu is a red color similar to that of the shrubs. However, in old Japanese, the word shiba also had the meaning of "small", thus this might be a reference to the dog's small size. Therefore, the Shiba Inu is sometimes translated as "Little Brushwood Dog".
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Red Shiba Inu in a show pose.
Photo: Isabelle Francais/Landmark Stock Exchange
Height: 13.5-16.5 inches
Weight: 15-25 lbs.
Life Span: 12-15 yrs.
Breed Group:
Northern Overview
Shiba Inus are bright, independent, clean and tidy dogs. They can be aloof and reserved with strangers as well as their families, but will accept children and other dogs and cats if raised with them. Like basenjis, they seldom bark but make their own distinctive sound reminiscent of a shriek. Shiba Inus need early and ongoing training to counteract their attempts to dominate.
Appearance
The Shiba Inu's outercoat is strong and straight; the undercoat soft and dense. The hair on the ruff, rear, and tail is slightly longer. The ruff may form a crest encircling the neck. Coat color is red, red sesame, black, or black and tan, all with white markings. Its spitz heritage is revealed in its dense coat, small ears (to reduce heat loss and frostbite), wedge-shaped muzzle, thick fur between the toes, and bushy tail that curls forward over the back.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Shiba Inus need to be brushed and combed two to three times a week. They enjoy a couple of daily brisk walks or romps in a safe, secure area.
Origins
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese hunting dog that was used for hunting birds and small game for more than 2,000 years. The breed is a result of the interbreeding of three ancient breeds: the Sanin, the Mino, and the Shinshu. It is the most popular dog in Japan.
Special Alerts
Shiba Inus are not suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
Breed-related health concerns include patellar luxation.
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