Shiba Inu
Alternative names
Japanese Shiba Inu Japanese Small Size Dog Shiba Ken
Common nicknames
Shiba
Country of origin
Japan
Classification
FCI: Group 5 Section 5 AKC: Non-sporting ANKC: Group 6 (Utility) CKC: Group 6 - Non-Sporting KC(UK): Utility NZKC: Utility
Breed standards (external links)
FCI, AKC, ANKC, KC(UK), NZKC

The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six original and distinct Japanese breeds of dog.

A small, agile dog that copes 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. The Shiba Inu nearly became extinct in the latter phase of World War II, with all subsequent dogs bred from only three surviving bloodlines known as the San'in, Mino and Shinshu.

Appearance

Shibas range in height from 14.5 to 16.5 inches (37 to 42 cm) for males, and 13.5 to 15.5 inches (34 to 39 cm) for females, with males weighing approximately 23 lb (10 kg), and females approximately 17 lb (8 kg). They have double coats, with a straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. Shibas may be red, black and tan, or red with black-tipped hairs, with a cream, buff, or grey undercoat.

Temperament

Shibas are fiercely independent and highly intelligent dogs. They have a reputation for aloofness with strangers, and obedience training is often difficult. Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest dog breeds.[1]

An eight-week-old Shiba Inu puppy

From the Japanese breed standard:

The dog has a spirited boldness with a good nature and a feeling of artlessness. It is alert and able to move quickly with nimble, elastic steps.

The terms "spirited boldness" (敢為 kan'i), "good nature" (良性 ryōsei) and "artlessness" (素樸 soboku) have subtle interpretations that have been the subject of much commentary.

Health

Health conditions know to affect this breed are cataracts, hip dysplasia, and luxating patella. Shibas are also prone to food allergies.

References

• Miriam Clews (Ed.). The Japanese Shiba Inu: A detailed study of the Shiba.

External links

• The American Kennel Club's page on the Shiba Inu
• The Misanthropic Shiba - an informative and humorous look at living with a Shiba Inu