Shiba Inu Dogs, Pictures, Shiba Inu Training, Breed Information

Appearance

• These dogs are solid and agile.


• They stand roughly 13 to 16 inches tall (at the shoulders).


• They typically weigh between 17 and 30 pounds.


• These dogs are well proportioned.


• They have ears that stand straight up (erect).


• Their tail sits high and curls over their back.


• They have a double coat that is straight and firm on the outside. The inner-coat is softer.


• You can typically find these dogs in the following colors:


1. red
2. red with black markings
3. black with tan markings
4. sesame with red markings
5. cream colored undercoat

Temperament

• This breed is typically loyal to their master.


• These small dogs are friendly and affectionate.


• This breed is also independent and at times, quite stubborn.


• They are generally good with children and other dogs. However, they should not be left alone with other small animals.


• This dog can be quite playful and active. They love outdoor activities such as playing ball.


• They are typically alert and wary of strangers; however they do not tend to bark a lot. Thus, they can be decent watch dogs.

Living Standards

• These dogs like to run. Therefore, a home with a small to medium size yard is preferred.


• They can live in an apartment however; they should be exercised on a daily basis.

Exercise

• This breed needs a daily walk (a moderate to long distance is recommended).


• They are quite athletic as well as fast, and can easily jog beside you on a leash.


• You may also allow these dogs to run in a safe confined area.


• Be sure to provide them with dog toys, tennis balls, and bones to chew as well.

Litter Size

• This breed will typically have between 2 and 4 pups per litter.

Health and Life Expectancy

• This is a healthy breed.


• Certain health issues related to these small dogs include:


1. Luxating Patella
2. Hip Dysplasia
3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy


• The life expectancy of these dogs is typically between 12 and 15 years of age.

Shiba Inu Training

• This breed is somewhat naturally obedient.


• Be firm and consistent with your training and show this small dog that you are the leader.


• Due to their strong hunting instinct, it is difficult to control this dog once he has started chasing after a small animal.


• For the best results, begin training this breed when they are pups.


• Remember that any small dog breed can develop small dog syndrome if not properly trained.

Grooming

• In general, this is a clean breed.


• Their short haired coat is not difficult to groom.


• Simply brush them on a regular basis (use a firm bristle brush).


• Bathe them when necessary.

History

• This breed is of Japanese origin.


• This breed is the smallest of the Japanese native dogs.


• They were bred in order to hunt small game, boar and bear.


• Their name in Japanese means “small brushwood dog”.


• Unfortunately, during WWII the Shiba Inu nearly became extinct.


• Afterward, these dogs were bred back to survival and eventually became the most popular companion dog in Japan.


• This breed was brought to the U.S. in 1956 and recognized by the AKC in 1992.

Shiba Inu Pictures & Video