ADDITIONAL SHIBA INU PICTURES
Family:
Breed Group: Northern, AKC Non-Sporting
Origin: Japan
Date of Origin: Ancient
Originally used for: Hunting
Used today: Companion
Other Name(s): Japanese Shiba Inu, Japanese Small Size Dog, Shiba Ken
History of the Breed: The Shiba Inu is an ancient dog and is the smallest and oldest of Japan's dogs. Originally used to hunt birds
and other small game in the dense underbrush of Japan's mountainous regions. In 1936, through the Cultural Properties Act, the Shiba Inu was
designated as a precious natural product of the Japanese nation and was given official recognition. The breed almost became extinct during
the 20th century as a result of World War II and then again in 1959 due to an outbreak of distemper. Hard working breeders have once again
restored the Shiba Inu population.
The Shiba Inu was registered by the AKC in 1992
General Appearance: Looks like a miniature Akita or a Spitz-like dog. The head has a broad and flat forehead with a slight furrow
and a full round muzzle that tapers slightly from the defined stop to the black nose tip. The muzzle length is 40% of the total head length.
The deep set brown eyes are somewhat triangular in shape. The small pricked ears are triangular in shape and are set well apart and
tilt directly forward. The body has a well developed chest with a well tucked-up abdomen and strong loins. The tail is carried over
the back in a curled position. The coat is stiff, straight and short on the face, ears, and legs and slightly longer
in length on the body with a bushy tail.
Height & Weight:
Height 13 - 16 inches
Weight 18 - 30 pounds
Coat: A double coat, the outer-coat is stiff and straight and the under-coat is soft and thick.
The coat is short and even on face, ears, and legs. Guard hairs stand off the body and are about 1˝ to 2 inches
in length at the withers. Tail hair is slightly longer.
Color: The undercoat is cream, buff or gray. The outercoat can be red, black and tan, or red with black-tipped hairs.
Grooming needs: Low, weekly brushing
Temperament of Breed: Intelegent, loyal, very strong-willed. They can be destructive if not kept busy or if left
on their own for an extended time.
Friendly with children: Yes
Friendly with other dogs: Can be aggressive with other dogs. Socialization starting at an early age is recommended.
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: High, thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic activities
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Cataracts, hip dysplasia, luxating patella
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 65
First Registered by the AKC: 1992
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, KCGB, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
The National Shiba Club of America (NSCA)
Shiba Inu Canada