The cuddly little fox breed of the dog world, Shiba Inus are known for their beauty, intelligence, and inquisitive nature. Keep reading to learn why this breed is on everyone’s list of favorite dogs.
Shiba Inu Breed Guide:
Breed Origin
Shiba Inus are an ancient breed of dog, dating all the way back to 300 b.c. Japan. They were bred in order to hunt small game for hunters. Believe it or not, we almost didn’t have Shibas at all! The Shiba Inu breed was nearly extinct after World War II, but fortunately the surviving Shiba Inus were rescued and bred in order to save the breed from extinction. The first Shiba Inu arrived in the U.S. in 1954.
Physical Characteristics
The Shiba’s appearance is one of the many reasons this breed has become so popular since its arrival. Shibas are known for their fox-like appearance; they have a fluffy coat, curly tail, and ears that stick straight up. Like some other breeds, Shibas have a double coat, which helps protect its skin from environmental damage. Most Shiba’s coat color comes in orange/red, but they can also come in black and tan, sesame, and cream. Their size also makes them a popular choice, Shiba’s can weigh up to 20 pounds and are up to 16.5 inches in height.
Temperament
Shiba Inu’s have confident and curious personalities. They are also highly intelligent, which can make them a stubborn breed to train. Shibas make great family dogs, they are extremely loyal and loving. Shibas are good with kids too, but proper training is recommended to teach them how to interact with children. Another thing to note is that Shibas can be highly possessive of toys, food, etc. This can lead to aggression if not trained out of this behavior.
Tips For Raising A Shiba Inu
Training
Having your Shiba Inu properly trained and socialized earlier rather than later is highly recommended. Shibas are a strong-willed breed, so early training can curb unwanted behaviors before they become a problem.
Grooming
Despite their appearance, the Shiba Inu is actually very low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Brush them regularly to keep their skin and fur healthy, and bathe them every 3-4 months.
Health
Written by Vincent M.
Click here for more blogs!
