Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu History

The Shiba Inu is a Japanese spitz-type of herding and watchdog dog. The Shiba Inu is descended from the indigenous Japanese dogs. The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the spitz breeds, and it is also one of the most ancient. The history of the Shiba Inu dates back to around 500 BC, when the indigenous people of Japan began using small, quick-working, and hardy spitzes to hunt and herd their cattle. These early Japanese dogs came to be known collectively as the Shikoku Inus. Japan was occupied by both the Chinese and the Russians in the 16th and 17th centuries, and during this time some Japanese dogs were also exported to European countries. These European imports, along with native Japanese dogs, contributed to the development of the modern spitz breeds, including the Shiba Inu. Although the modern Standard and Miniature varieties were formally established in Japan in 1928, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the Shiba Inu became popular outside Japan. The breed is now well established in Europe and North America.

Shiba Inu Physical Characteristics

The Shiba Inu is a small, medium-to-large-sized, breed of domestic dog and one of the oldest breeds of Spitz-type dogs, originating in Japan. The breed is well known for resembling foxes, and its name means “brushwood (shiba) dog (inu)” in Japanese. The Shiba Inus come in three varieties: the rokkaku, the yoko, and the chu. The rokka is that which has erect ears, the yoku has drop ears and a tail that is carried curled over the back, while the chu has pricked or semi-pricked ears, and a tail that is carried straight. The sable and sesame colored dogs are called kojiro.

Shiba Inu Health

Description of breed health.

Shiba Inu Temperament and Behaviour

The Shiba Inu is a fiercely independent, highly intelligent, and courageous breed of dog. They are extremely loyal to their owners, but are often wary of strangers. They are generally quiet and calm, but are very protective of their home and owner when threatened. They are territorial and self-reliant, and typically do well with older children.

Shiba Inu Activity Requirements

The Shiba Inu is a particularly high-energy dog. They are happiest when they are busy, and they do best in households where the owners are active and able to spend a lot of time with their Shiba Inu. The Shiba Inu is an alert, intelligent, and loyal companion. They are also a courageous and independent dog. The Shiba Inu can be very assertive, making them excellent watch dogs and guard dogs. They will not back down from a fight, but they do get along well with other animals and people. The Shiba Inu is best suited to owners who are able to give them the time and attention they need. This is not a breed who can be alone for long periods of time. They are highly intelligent and crave companionship.

Kennel Club Recognition