Japanese Shiba Inu
Other names: Japanese small size dog

The Japanese Shiba Inu is an independent, mischievous, and very energetic dog. Known for his Asian origin, the Shiba Inu has a unique temperament and overflowing energy, and will bring happiness to young and elderly people. This dog has the physical appearance of a fox and can be as intrepid and smart as his ancestors. Since he constantly demands activity, the Shiba Inu would be the perfect companion for a dynamic and athletic owner, as long as they are ready and patient enough to teach this stubborn dog breed.
Key facts about the Japanese Shiba Inu
Origins and history
The Shiba Inu is a very ancient dog breed and a native of the mountainous area of central Japan. Nobody knows for sure about his ancestors but it is a safe bet to say that he has the same ancestors as other known Japanese breeds. In Japan, the breed has been protected since 1936 due to crossbreeding with English breeds that were impoverishing his genes. The Shiba (which means "little dog") was originally used for wild boar and fox hunting. It was not until 1985 that the first Shiba was introduced into the UK.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 5 - Spitz and primitive types
Section
Section 5 : Asian Spitz and related breeds
Physical characteristics of the Japanese Shiba Inu
Adult size
Female : Between 14 and 15 in
Male : Between 15 and 16 in
Weight
Female : Between 13 and 22 lb
Male : Between 13 and 22 lb
Coat colour
The coat can be red, red sesame, black and tan or white.
Sesame colour is a mixture of white and black hair. Black sesame indicates that there is a majority of black hair and red sesame that there is a majority of red.
No matter the colour of his coat, this Japanese dog must have what is called the Urajiro which means the presence of whitish hair on the cheeks, under the jaw, on the chest, the belly, the throat, inside of the tail, inside of the limbs and the lateral sides of the muzzle.
Type of coat
The coat is short in length.
The fur is straight and hard with a soft and thick undercoat, which will protect him against the cold.
Eye colour
The eyes are brown and usually very dark.
Description
He is a small, resilient, rustic, foxy-looking dog that is elegant and walks proudly. The bones and muscles are well-developed. With an elegant gait and a beautiful physique, the Shiba Inu walks with great confidence.