Origin

The ancestors of Shiba Inu evolved in Japan. They were brought to Japan from China. The Akita Inu is one of the ancestor of the Shiba Inu. This is a Japanese dog and in Japanese language the name means small. This breed was used for hunting. After the second world war the breed just vanished but they were gradually saved by careful and good breeding.

General Description

The Shiba Inu is not very big in size and it is about 16 inches high. They have a stout and muscular body. Their head is wide and round and they have a pointed sharp muzzle with a black nose at the tip. They look very much like the Akita Inu. The Shiba Inu’s eyes are hazel and almond shaped. It has a big face and two standing small ears on their head. The Shiba Inu has a broad neck and wide chest. Their limbs and legs are broad and muscular and they have rounded paws. The Shiba Inu has a short tail which is totally curled. They have a thick coat and they are found in many colour combinations like red and black, fawn etc.

Character

Shiba Inus are very good in nature but if they are not properly trained then they really become dangerous in certain situations. They are medium in size, strongly built and bold in nature. Their webbed paws make them great swimmers. They can become good watchdogs as they are very alert and courageous. Training this breed is easy as they are highly responsive but if not trained properly they become very dominating. Shiba Inu hesitate in mixing with strangers but they are not aggressive. They should be treated with a great deal of understanding and respect by family members. If teased some of them even may bite you but not all behave like that. To prevent such types of aggressive behaviour they should be socialized and trained from early age. If proper training is provided then Shiba Inus can become as gentle, sober and loving as other breeds.

Temperament

This breed is very intelligent, brave and impulsive. They are very much attached to human beings, very loyal to their families but take time to mix with the strangers. Shiba Inus are very much desperate in protecting their families, food and territory. They are good in nature but not always. Shiba Inus are very polite and sober to children of the family but not to them who they do not know. They are also harsh to other pets. This breed does not bark much but they prove to be excellent guard dogs. Shiba Inus don’t like to be left alone for a long period so they are best suited for joint families. Not recommended for inexperienced dog owners.

Training

The Shiba Inu is very intelligent so they are trained easily. But sometimes they are very energetic and stubborn so they should be treated firmly. Training should start at an early age.

Health

Generally this breed is a healthy breed and some of them may be affected by PRA, CHD and patellar luxation. Their average life span is 12-15 years.