Home » Meet The Breeds » Shiba Inu Dog Breed
The Shiba Inu, or Shiba, a small but spirited breed, hails from Japan where it has been admired for centuries for its hunting prowess, keen alertness, and boldness of spirit. This breed, distinguished by its fox-like appearance, captures hearts with its combination of endearing charm and dignified independence. Originally bred to hunt by sight and by scent, the breed has evolved into a beloved companion, well-suited to both suburban and urban settings.
Non-Sporting
13.5 – 16.5 inches
17 – 23 pounds
13 – 16 years
Country of Origin | Japan |
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Bred For | Small Game and Bird Hunting, Companionship |
Known For | Curly Tail, Boldness, Alertness |
Popularity | Moderate |
Temperament | Alert, Active, Attentive |
Activities | Walking, Hiking, Watchdog, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The Shiba Inu boasts a rich and storied history, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Japan. Considered one of the oldest and smallest native dogs of Japan, its ancestry dates back several thousand years, possibly to around 7000 BC with the earliest immigrants to Japan. Small dogs within the 14 1/2 to 19 1/2 inch range were discovered in archaeological excavations of the Jomonjin or Rope-Pattern People, indicating the presence of early ancestors of today’s Shiba.
Initially bred for hunting in Japan’s mountainous areas, the Shiba Inu was adept at flushing out small game and birds and was occasionally used to hunt wild boar. The third century BC saw new immigrants bringing their dogs to Japan, which interbred with the Jomonjin dogs, resulting in canines with pointed, erect ears and curly or sickle tails.
The breed’s name, “Shiba,” is thought to mean “small” or “brushwood” in Japanese, possibly referring to the brushwood bushes where they hunted or to the fiery red color of the Shiba which matches the autumn color of brushwood leaves. The term “Inu” simply means “dog” in Japanese.
During the 7th century AD, the Yamato Court emphasized the importance of native breeds in Japanese culture by establishing an official department dedicated to the preservation and maintenance of dogs. This initiative highlighted the value placed on canine breeds within the societal framework of Japan. Despite Japan’s isolation from the 17th through the 18th centuries, the introduction of some European dogs and the Chinese Chin occurred, leading to their interbreeding with native dogs in more populated areas. However, in the rural areas, the canine population remained relatively untouched, preserving the purity of native breeds.
Originally, there were three main varieties of Shiba from different regions, contributing to the breed variations seen today. These, along with other Japanese native dogs, led to the development of six distinct breeds categorized into three sizes:
The Shiba Inu’s history faced a significant challenge during World War II, with many perishing in bombing raids or from distemper in the post-war years. While the Mino and Sanin Shibas became nearly extinct, more of the Shinshu Shibas survived. Post-war, Shibas from remote areas were brought in, and breeding programs combined the remnants of various bloodlines to create the breed as known today.
The breed was officially recognized in Japan in 1936 and declared a national treasure, signifying its importance in Japanese culture and heritage. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Shiba Inu in 1992 and added it to the AKC Non-Sporting Group in 1993. This recognition not only established its presence in the United States but also marked a significant milestone in its global recognition. Additionally, the Shiba Inu is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and The Kennel Club (UK), further cementing its status in the canine world.
Today, celebrated for its spirited personality, fox-like appearance, and adaptability, the Shiba Inu is a beloved pet worldwide. Its history, from a skilled hunting companion to a treasured family member, highlights its resilience and enduring appeal.
In terms of height and weight, an adult male Shiba Inu generally stands about 14.5 to 16.5 inches tall at the withers, while a mature female is slightly smaller, typically ranging from 13.5 to 15.5 inches in height.
Weight-wise, a well-proportioned male Shiba usually weighs around 23 pounds, and a female tends to weigh about 17 pounds.
The Shiba Inu is a study in balance and proportion, boasting a symmetrical and sturdy build that reflects both agility and strength. This breed is characterized by its well-developed muscles and moderate bone, giving it a rather robust and hardy appearance for its size. In males, the ideal height-to-length ratio is 10 to 11, with females being slightly longer. These proportions contribute to the breed’s distinctive, compact look that is masculine in males and feminine in females.
The breed’s overall substance should convey a sense of strength, yet not to the extent of appearing heavy or cumbersome. This careful balance in proportions is a hallmark of the breed, emphasizing its functional heritage and aesthetic appeal.
Texture: The coat of the Shiba Inu features a double layer, essential for its adaptability to various climates and conditions. The outer coat is stiff and straight, providing a layer of protection, with a soft and dense undercoat that offers plenty of insulation. The guard hairs are 1.5 to 2 inches long and stand off from the body, longer on the tail and shorter on the face, ears, and legs.
Standard Color | |
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Black & Tan | ee |
Cream | ee |
Red | ee |
Sesame | ee |
A Note About Color: The color of the Shiba Inu’s coat can be red, red sesame, or black and tan, with an undercoat that’s considered cream, buff, or gray. “Urajiro” markings of cream or white appear in each color on the sides of the muzzle and on the cheeks, underjaw, upper throat, inside of the legs, on the abdomen, around the vent, and on the ventral side of the tail. Additional markings are specific to each of the three colors, and all colors should be clear and intense.
Standard Marking | |
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White Markings | ee |
A significant aspect of the Shiba Inu’s appearance is its tail. The breed sports a high-set tail that is thick at the root and powerfully carried over the back in a sickle shape or curl. Single curls are preferred over double curls. This characteristic tail not only adds to the breed’s distinctive silhouette, it also serves as a sign of the dog’s good health and vigor. The way the tail is carried and curled over the back can vary among individuals, but it always adds to the Shiba’s poised and spirited appearance. Whether in motion or at rest, the tail is an expressive feature, conveying the breed’s energetic and confident nature.
Owning a Shiba Inu offers a unique and rewarding experience, but it also requires an understanding of the breed’s specific needs and characteristics. Known for their independence, intelligence, and strong personality, Shibas can be a delightful addition to the right home. However, they demand an owner who appreciates their distinctive traits and can provide the structure, training, and care they need. It’s essential for potential Shiba Inu caretakers to consider these factors to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with their canine companion.
The Shiba Inu is generally a healthy and hardy breed, possessing a well-built physique and a strong constitution. Despite this, as with any breed, there are certain health issues that prospective owners should be aware of. Being informed about these potential health challenges and maintaining a proactive approach to their Shiba Inu’s health can significantly contribute to the dog’s overall well-being and longevity.
On average, Shiba Inu has a lifespan of 13 to 16 years. To support a healthy and long life, regular veterinary check-ups, a nutritious diet, and sufficient exercise are crucial.
Shiba Inu, like any breed and mixed breed, is susceptible to certain health conditions. Potential health risks for this breed include:
Regular veterinary check-ups and being alert to the early signs of these conditions can help ensure a Shiba Inu’s long-term health and well-being.
The personality of a Shiba Inu is a unique blend of independence, intelligence, and loyalty. These dogs often display a cat-like demeanor, being both clean and self-sufficient. When it comes to novice owners, Shibas can present a challenge due to their independent nature and strong will. They are not as immediately eager to please as some other breeds, which means they require a handler who understands canine behaviors and is patient and consistent with training.
In terms of sensitivity, Shibas have a moderate level. They respond well to positive reinforcement but can become stubborn if treated harshly. Their ability to be alone is better than many other breeds, as they value their independence, but this doesn’t mean they should be left alone for prolonged periods.
When interacting with other dogs, they can be somewhat aloof, especially if not socialized from a young age. This trait also extends to their interactions with young children. While a well-socialized Shiba Inu can coexist peacefully with children, their independent nature means they might not tolerate invasive behaviors from kids.
Regarding their disposition towards strangers, Shibas tend to be reserved. They are not immediately trusting of strangers and can exhibit a cautious demeanor around new people. This makes them excellent watchdogs, as they are always alert and observant.
Feeding a Shiba Inu requires attention to their specific dietary needs at different stages of life. As puppies, Shibas have high energy needs and benefit from a diet that supports their rapid growth and development. Puppy-specific formulas, rich in protein and essential nutrients, are ideal for this stage. It is generally advisable to feed them small, frequent meals throughout the day to support their metabolism and growth.
Transitioning to adulthood, a Shiba Inu’s diet should be adjusted to maintain a healthy weight and support their activity levels. Adult Shibas typically do well with two meals per day. The amount of food, often measured in cups, varies based on the dog’s size, age, and activity level. A moderate amount, typically around 1 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals, is usually sufficient for the average adult Shiba Inu. However, this can vary, and it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the specific nutritional needs of your dog.
Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which is a concern for the breed. Shibas are known for their agile and lean physique, and maintaining an appropriate weight is crucial for their overall health. Monitoring their diet, alongside regular exercise, ensures they stay in optimal condition.
Training a Shiba Inu presents a unique set of challenges and rewards, primarily due to their intelligent yet independent nature. These dogs are known for their sharp minds, which means they learn quickly, but their independent streak can sometimes make them seem less eager to please compared to other breeds. This characteristic can be particularly noticeable in training sessions, where a Shiba Inu might display selective listening or a seemingly stubborn attitude.
Despite these traits, with the right approach, Shibas can be effectively trained. Positive reinforcement techniques, such