Mary Allen
The Shiba (Shiba Inu, Shiba Ken) is the smallest of the six recognized Japanese dog breeds. The elegant appearance and the absolutely unique character make the dogs popular companion dogs. In the profile, you will learn everything about the history, nature, and attitude of stubborn dogs.
History of the Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese dog breed. He is also known as Shiba or Shiba Ken. Shiba means “small” and “Inu” or “Ken” means “dog” in Japanese. The historical representatives of the breed were a lot smaller and shorter-legged than today’s specimens. Mountain farmers kept them as farm dogs and for hunting small game and birds. They were able to evolve independently of other races and changed little.
Towards the end of the 19th century, the British brought their setters and pointers with them. As a result, within a few decades, the purebred Shiba became a rarity. The breed almost became extinct almost a hundred years ago. Around 1928 the first breeders, therefore, began to revive the breed and established an official standard in 1934. Internationally, the FCI counts him in Group 5 “Spitzer and Primitive Type” in Section 5 “Asian Spitz and Related Breeds”.
Essence and Character
The Shiba Inu is a perceptive and independent dog that never fully submits. Overall, he is lively, enterprising, affectionate, and courageous. He does not like to share his “properties” such as baskets, food, or toys with other dogs. However, with good socialization, living with other pets is possible. He barks relatively little but can communicate complexly with other sounds. He is reserved and reserved towards strangers.
He has a strong will and can convince masters and mistresses. With his strong self-confidence, you always have to measure yourself at the beginning, which can be a great challenge. However, the dog remains relaxed and calm and, moreover, never shows aggressiveness. Anyone who develops a certain authority will ultimately receive a clingy and loyal four-legged companion in the Shiba.
The Appearance of the Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is an original dog and a close relative of the wolf. Its appearance is reminiscent of a fox, especially in the reddish specimens. The triangular erect ears, the small, slightly triangular eyes, and the curled tail that lies close to the back are striking. The hard, straight topcoat can be red, black tan, sesame, black sesame, or red sesame. In Japanese dogs, “sesame” means a mixture of red and black hair. All colorings should have the so-called “Urajiro”. These are whitish hairs on the muzzle, chest, cheeks, underside of the body, and on the inside of the limbs.
Education of the Puppy
The Shiba Inu is a demanding dog that can be difficult for beginners to understand. He needs an owner who can deal with his complex and idiosyncratic character. He never gives up his independence and needs a consistent and loving upbringing. Punishments are not appropriate for sensitive dogs, as they are not only sensitive but also resentful. Even for experienced dog owners, the stubborn dog can pose a challenge. It will therefore take a while before he accepts you as a higher rank. Visiting a dog school and a puppy course is recommended for essential socialization.
Activities with the Shiba Inu
Depending on how it is, the Shiba Inu can be very active. He likes to decide for himself when he wants to exercise but needs his daily walks. Depending on the character, some representatives of the breed are suitable for dog sports. If they see any sense in it, the Japanese dogs can be persuaded to practice agility.
Dogs can also be great companions when jogging or cycling. The strong hunting instinct paired with the dog’s stubbornness only allows free-running without a leash in rare cases. Preferred activities vary widely depending on the individual dog. The motivation of the owner is also decisive in convincing the dog of the benefits of an activity. Serious dogs don’t really like silly fetch games or tricks. The clever dog wants to understand the meaning of the task.
Health and Care
The Shiba is a robust and easy-care dog. However, you should also brush his fur regularly. He sheds the dense undercoat twice a year during molting. If you do not want to fight with large amounts of hair at this time, you should regularly rid the dog of loose fur. In general, the Shiba is a clean and odorless dog that is said to have the cleanliness of a cat. In terms of health, the breed is one of the more robust four-legged friends, but you should avoid greater exertion in the heat. The dogs feel more comfortable in the cold and snow. When it comes to nutrition, you should focus on a protein-rich diet with a high proportion of meat.
Is the Shiba Inu Right for Me?
If you are looking for a demanding dog with a strong charisma, you will be happy with the Shiba Inu. He is a very clean dog whose fur hardly has an odor of its own. In general, the Asian dog breed is suitable for self-confident people who want to deal seriously and intensively with their dog. Beginners should refrain from buying, despite the dogs’ pretty appearance. If you are sure about the breed, it is best to look for a breeder who belongs to the Shiba Club Deutschland e.V. For a purebred puppy with papers you can calculate 800 to 1500€. At the shelter, you will occasionally find representatives of the breed looking for a new home. The association “Shiba in Not” deals with the mediation of the great dogs.