The Shiba has been a native breed to Japan since the primitive ages. The Shiba’s habitat was in the mountainous area facing the Sea of Japan and was used as a hunting dog for small animals and birds.
There were slight differences in the breeds according to the areas where they were raised. As dogs like English Setters and English Pointers were imported from England during the period of 1868-1912, hunting became a sport in Japan and crossbreeding of the Shiba with those English dogs became prevalent and a pure Shiba became rare so that by 1912-1926 pure Shibas confined to these areas became exceedingly scarce. Hunters and other educated persons became concerned with the preservation of the pure Shibas from around 1928 and the preservation of the limited number of pure strains began seriously, and the breed standard was finally unified in 1934. In 1937 the Shiba was designated as a natural monument of Japan after which the breed was bred and improved to become the breed known today. - ANKC Shiba Inu Standard.
Today's Shiba Inu is loyal, with an intelligent and independent personality. They tend to form strong bonds with their family unit and love to be involved in daily household activities. With early training and socialisation they make great companions. Shiba's are also a generally healthy breed, however, they can be headstrong and stubborn, so patience is required when training a Shiba. They are suited to experienced dog owners, however, can also be suited to the right first time owners with the proper training and guidance (puppy school is highly recommended!).
Shiba's are a double coated breed and shed their coats twice a year in line with the change in season, during this time they require lots of grooming. Early desensitising to regular nail trims is also extremely important, as this can present challenges later in life if not practiced as a puppy. A secure fenced yard is recommended for the breed as they can be escape artists, and for this reason it is also not recommended that they are let off their leash during walks.
They are an extremely diverse breed that will be happy to join you on a hike, or for a nap on the couch and enjoy mental stimulation too.
Please feel free to contact me for more information about the characteristics of the Shiba Inu.
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