small Breed Dogs
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Shiba Inu
Average Weight: 17-23 pounds (7.71 - 10.43 kg) 
Average Height:  13.5- 16.5 inches (34.29 – 41.91 cm)
Pronounced: SHEE-bah-EE-noo
Group:  Non-Sporting
Life Span: 14 Years
Average Litter: 3
Origin: Japan

Description

The Shiba Inu is the smallest of Japan's native dog breeds.  This small dog has a very compact frame with well developed muscles.  The eyes are a very dark brown, almost a triangle shape and slant upward.  The triangle ears are small and tilt forward.  The lips and nose are always black and the teeth meet in a scissors bite.   The tail is thick and carried over the back, usually in a curled position.

This small dog has a double coat of fur. The outer coat is straight and the undercoat soft and thick.  On the face, ears and legs, the coat is short.  On the tail the hair is slightly longer.

Color

Although all colors are acceptable in the Shiba Inu standard, red, red sesame (black tipped hairs on a rich red background) and black & tan are preferred in show. White and cream shadings (urajiro) can be  present on the legs, belly, chest and part of the face and tail.

Personality

This is small breed dog is typically good natured.  He can be independent and shy toward strangers but very affectionate and loyal with his human family members.  This is not the best dog to choose if you wish for a multi-dog household as the Shiba Inu is often aggressive toward other dogs. 

While generally tolerant of children, this small dog can become very possessive of his belongings such as toys and food and may not tolerate people of any age going near what he considers are his belongings.  This dog does best with children over the age of 6.  Puppies do best when allowed to go over to a child as opposed to  the child going to them and they often to not like to be handled too much.

Aggression can be a problem especially with males,  however neutering males when very young can greatly help.

This small dog usually gives owners a power struggle, as he may want to be the boss of the house. Strict training must show him that it is the human who is in charge.  Most ShibaI Inu puppies and dogs do not like to wear collars and will violently shake their heads when a collar or leash is put on.

Origin & History

The Shiba Inu, the smallest and oldest of Japan's dogs is the number one companion dog in that country.  Originally there were t3main varieties of Shiba Inu; each named for its region of origin. Although similar, the Shibas from each area contributed to differences in breed type seen today. From the original Japanese native dogs, 6 distinct breeds developed:
  • Large Size - The Akita
  • Medium Size - The Kishu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, & Kai
  • Small Size - The Shiba Inu
Health

Do keep in mind that any conditions that a breed is prone to is just  something for owners to be aware of and in no way implies that a dog is certain to develop any of them. There are a few health issues that this breed is prone to, most notably:
  • Luxating patella - A slipping of the kneecap
  • Hip Dysplasia - A malformation of the hip joint
  • Eye issues, including cataracts
Exercise

 This is a very active little dog who needs a good amount of exercise to burn off pent up energy.  A steady, 30 minute walk each day is optimal and any free running time in a safe outdoor area is a plus.  He generally likes to investigate everything, therefore an enclosed outside area for play is best.

Grooming

The Shiba Inu is cat like in regard to personal cleanliness and does a lot of licking to keep the coat clean.  Owners should give this dog a good brushing 1 time per week.  Baths can be given every 4-5 weeks, nails trimmed every 6-7 weeks and daily dental care should be performed to keep this dog's teeth nice and healthy.

Shedding

If you are looking for a dog who does not shed, this is not the one for you.  It seems as if the Shiba Inu sheds just about all year round.  However, reguarl brushing or using a "vaccum" brush can be very helpful.

Care & Training

The nature of this dog to want to be the boss of the home may call for an owner to strictly establish who is the "Alpha dog".   Extra time must usually be spent teaching the command of "Heel".      Owners - Click Here For More Detailed Information




                    
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