Shiba Inu Dog Breed Information and Pictures - All About Dogs

Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu

Description:

The Shiba Inu is a very lively and courageous dog, which is rapidly gaining popularity all around the world. This breed gets along quite well with children and can be a true friend to his master. On the other hand, Shiba Inus are wary of strangers but seldom show aggression. In 1992, this breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Height: 13-16 inches  Weight: 19-30 pounds  Lifespan: 12-15 years

Characteristics:

The Shiba Inu is very playful and energetic. Additionally, this beautifully looking dog is tender and charming. This breed is very independent, but it craves the owner’s attention nonetheless. The Shiba Inu gets along poorly with small pets, but he easily finds a common language with cats. Comparable Breeds: The Akita and Siberian Husky.

Character:

Shiba Inus are extremely clever animals that show great talent for the role of guarding. However, these dogs have a propensity for frequent, excessive barking. The Shiba Inu is not recommended for dog breeders with any previous experience, mainly because he is sometimes overly stubborn.

Coat / Care:

Shiba Inus are covered with a double coat. While the outer layer is hard and soft, the undercoat is rather dense. The tail and hind legs of this breed are adorned with somewhat longer hair, in comparison with the rest of the body. Shiba Inus come in orange-red and sesame. Also, white markings on the tip of the tail and on the forelegs and hind legs are quite common.

The Shiba is relatively easy to care for. Hence, it is enough to periodically comb the dog’s coat with a brush. This will remove excess hair and minimize the hair loss. But, since this breed sheds intensely during the shedding season, it may require special maintenance. Regular water treatments can destroy the waterproof qualities of the coat, so the Shiba Inu should not be bathed too often.

Health Problems:

The Shiba Inu is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to Canine Hip Dysplasia, Glaucoma, Allergies, Epilepsy, Patellar Luxation, Hypothyroidism, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Cancer. The Shiba Inu has a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Weight / Height:

The male Shiba Inu dog breed’s height is around 14 – 17 inches and weighs around 18 and 24 pounds. Female Shiba Inu dogs can reach a size from 13 – 16 inches and weighs between 15 and 20 pounds. Male dogs are generally larger than females.

Training:

Since the Shiba Inu is a smart dog, he responds well to rules concerning cleanliness. Still, obedience training and socialization should begin at very young age. Moreover, due to the fact that Shiba Inus are very stubborn and full of energy, they require an experienced coach and consistency in education.

Activity:

The Shiba Inu is not intended for indoor living. This dog breed likes to be the center of attention and furthermore, needs your undivided attention. Shiba Inus thrive best in a medium-sized fenced yard, but they meet their needs with day-to-day hiking.

Photo credit: Yuya Tamai/Flickr

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