Dogs have been called man’s best friend for centuries, and there’s a good reason for that. They’re loyal, they’re loving, and they’re always there when you need them. But not all dog breeds are created equal. Some are better suited for certain tasks or lifestyles than others.
The Shiba Inu is one of the most popular dog breeds in recent years. These dogs are originally from Japan and have recently become increasingly popular in the United States. They’re small, they’re cute, and they make great companions. But before you run out and get a Shiba Inu of your own, you should know a few things about this breed.
Here is some essential Shiba Inu Dog Breed Information that everyone should be aware of before they bring one of these dogs into their home.
History of the Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They were originally bred in Japan for hunting small game and birds. The name “Shiba” means brushwood in Japanese, and “Inu” means dog. These dogs were used extensively for hunting in the mountainous areas of Japan.
The Shiba Inu is a member of the spitz family of dogs, which includes breeds like the Akita and the Samoyed. These dogs are characterized by their thick fur, pointed ears, and tail that curl over their back. The Shiba Inu dogs are the smallest member of the spitz family.
The first shiba Inu was brought to the United States in the 1954s, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that they started to become popular. Nowadays, they’re one of the most popular dog breeds in America.
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American Kennel Club ranked them as the 44th most popular breed in 2016. To maintain Shiba Inu ecosystem, Shiba Inu rescue association is trying to adopt and find foster homes for lost, displaced, or unwanted Shiba Inu puppies. National Breed Club has also been set up for these dogs and their popularity continues to grow.
Size of Shiba Inus
One of the things that makes Shiba Inus so popular is their small size. They’re typically between 14 and 16 inches tall at the shoulder and only 20 to 35 pounds. This makes them the perfect size for city dwellers or anyone who doesn’t have a lot of space.
Their small size also makes them very portable, so they’re a great breed for people who travel a lot. They can easily be taken on airplanes or in cars without taking up too much space.
Despite their small size, Shiba Inus are still fairly muscular dogs. They have a compact, sturdy frame that is well-suited for hikes and other outdoor activities. Foxy-faced with a thick fur coat, Shiba Inus look like they’re constantly smiling, adding to their charm.
Coat and Colors
Shiba Inus have a thick double coat of fur designed to protect them from the cold weather in Japan. The outer coat is straight and harsh, while the undercoat is soft and dense. This combination of coats makes tan Shiba Inu one of the most weather-resistant dog breeds. However, it also means that they shed a lot.
Shiba Inus comes in three main colors: red, black, tan, and sesame. Red is the most common color, but black, tan, and sesame are becoming increasingly popular. All three colors have a distinct brindle pattern caused by the intermingling of the different colored hairs. The white marking on their tails is a common feature among all three colors.
Shiba Inus are born with black fur on their tail, but it starts to lighten as they age. By the time they’re adults, their coats will be the color they’ll have for the rest of their lives.
Shiba Inu Temperament
Shiba Inus are loyal, loving, and devoted dogs. They make number one companion dog and are very attached to their families. They’re also very independent dogs that like to do things on their own. This means they’re not the best breed for people who want a dog that will always be by their side.
They are affectionate with their family, but they can be a bit aloof with the kids. So, if you’re looking for a dog that will shower your kids with kisses, a male or female shiba inu puppy is probably not the right dog.
For apartment living, Shiba Inus adapt very well. They don’t need much space and are content to lounge around inside all day. Being alone for long periods doesn’t bother them either. They’ll be happy if they have a few toys to keep them entertained.
For novice dog owners, Shiba Inus can be a challenge. They’re known for being stubborn and headstrong. They need an owner who is firm and consistent with their training. But if you’re willing to do the work, you’ll be rewarded with an obedient and well-behaved dog.
Activity Level
Shiba Inus are moderate to high-energy dogs. They need a fair amount of dog sports to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk or playtime in the yard is usually enough to meet their needs. People with small yards or apartments need to be more creative with their exercise regimen.
Their small size also makes them ideal running or hiking partners. They can easily keep up with you on long walks or runs.
Shiba Inus likes to lounge around and relax when they’re not exercising. They’re not the type of dog that is always on the go. They’re content to lay around the house all day and don’t need a lot of stimulation to be happy. Exercising them is important but don’t overdo it, or they’ll get bored.
Training
Shiba Inus are intelligent dogs that are quick to learn. They’re also very independent, so they don’t always follow orders. This can make training a challenge for novice dog owners.
Shiba Inus need an owner who is firm and consistent with their training. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats or praise. Harsh punishment will make them more stubborn and less likely to listen to you. They are not reliable off the leash, so it’s important to keep them on a leash or in a fenced-in area when they’re outdoors.
At four week mark, the puppy will try to get away with anything and everything. If you give in to their pleading eyes or let them get away with mischief, they will continue to test your limits. Be firm and consistent with your rules from the beginning; they will learn what is expected of them. However, At five weeks, they are more receptive to training and willing to please their owner.
Grooming
Shiba Inus have a thick, double coat that sheds twice a year heavily. During these times, you’ll need to groom them more frequently to help control the shedding. Brushing them once or twice a week should be enough to remove the loose hair from their coat. Blowing them with a blow dryer on low heat will also help to remove the loose hair.
They don’t require a lot of bathing, but you can give them one every month or so if you’d like. Be sure to use a dog-specific shampoo that won’t dry their skin. This will help keep their skin and coat healthy. When you’re finished bathing them, make sure to dry their coat thoroughly. If you live in a cold climate, keeping your coat long and thick is important to protect them from the cold weather.
Be sure to check their ears regularly and clean them if necessary. Their long hair can trap dirt and moisture, leading to ear infections. Shiba Inus are relatively low-maintenance than other dogs when it comes to grooming. Their double coat does shed heavily, but regular brushing will help to control the shedding.
Health
Shiba Inus are generally healthy dogs, but like most breeds, they’re susceptible to certain health conditions. The most common health problems in Shiba Inus are allergies, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia.
Allergies are the most common health problem seen in Shiba Inus. They can be allergic to pollen, grass, and dust mites. If your dog is scratching a lot or seems to be in discomfort, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out allergies.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are two types of joint problems seen in Shiba Inus. These conditions are caused by malformation of the joints, which can lead to pain and lameness. If you notice your dog is having trouble walking or is in pain, make an appointment with your vet.
Responsible breeders will have their dogs tested for hip and elbow dysplasia and only breed dogs clear of these conditions.
Nutrition
Shiba Inus are medium-sized dogs, so they need a balanced diet that meets their energy needs. They should eat two to three meals daily, depending on age and activity level. Puppies under six months old should eat three meals a day. Puppies six to twelve months old can eat two meals a day. Adult dogs can eat two or three meals daily, depending on their activity level.
The best diet for a Shiba Inu is high in protein and fat and low in carbohydrates. This diet will help keep their energy levels up and maintain their lean muscle mass. It’s important to choose high-quality dog food specifically formulated for medium-sized breeds.
Avoid feeding your Shiba Inu table scraps, which can lead to obesity and other health problems. Stick to a healthy, balanced diet to keep your adult dog happy and healthy.
Conclusion
While the Shiba Inu breed may be small in stature, this hunting dog is not to be underestimated. The Shiba Inu is a loyal and loving companion but can also be fiercely independent and stubborn. The Shiba Inu may be the perfect breed if you’re looking for a challenge in a canine friend. The Shiba Inu can make a great addition to any family with proper obedience training.
