Shiba Inu Cricket - Male #291

Shiba Inu

Breed: Shiba Inu
Pet ID: 25932-03
Color: Red Sesame / White

An ancient Japanese breed, the Shiba Inu is a little but well-muscled dog once employed as a hunter. Today, the spirited, good-natured Shiba is the most popular companion dog in Japan. The adaptable Shiba is at home in town or country. Brought to America from Japan as recently as 60 years ago, Shibas are growing in popularity in the West and are already the most popular breed in their homeland. Their white markings combined with their coloring (red, red sesame, or black and tan) and their alert expression and smooth stride makes them almost foxlike. They’re sturdy, muscular dogs with a bold, confident personality to match.

History

The first documented Shiba to enter the United States was imported by a military family in 1954. But the Shiba is an ancient breed, having been around since 300 b.c. The breed is named after its history as a hunter in the rugged mountains of Japan; ‘Shiba’ means ‘brushwood’ (referring either to the brush in the mountains or to the dog’s reddish color) in Japanese, and ‘Inu’ means ‘dog.’ By the end of World War II Shibas were nearly extinct, but they survived Japan’s wartime deprivations and are today the country’s number-one companion animal. Their popularity has been growing in the United States for the past 50 years.

Temperament

A spirited boldness, a good nature, and an unaffected forthrightness, which
together yield dignity and natural beauty. The Shiba has an independent nature and can be
reserved toward strangers but is loyal and affectionate to those who earn his respect.

Environment

An ideal environment for The Shiba is a well-fenced yard. The independent free-spirited nature of the Shiba makes it a dog that abhors the use of collars or leashes. So, unleashing it inside the yard is a welcome idea. However, training should be given to it at an early stage to incorporate obedience. The Shiba is a highly active breed that loves to indulge in play, walks and can even accompany its master during jogs. Creating a buffer zone for it to roam freely can greatly improve its well-being.

Exercise

The Shiba is an active dog breed that loves stimulating activity. Taking the dog for daily walks is an ideal exercise regimen. Regular exercise will great Improve the dog’s life and make it less susceptible to common diseases like entropion, hip dysplasia cataracts, etc.

Grooming

Shibas shed a lot. It has been said that they shed twice a year, but some owners quip that it lasts for six months at a time. Unless a Shiba is a “long coat,” the coat does not mat, so infrequent brushing doesn’t hurt the dog, but brushing or combing during periods of heavy shedding will reduce the amount of hair around the house. Blowing the dog with a strong blow-dryer or a shop vacuum in reverse is a good way to remove loose hair, dirt, and dandruff and to check for fleas. Most dogs learn to like the blower, as it feels good and doesn’t scrape the skin or pull the coat. Don’t let it get too hot, though. Shibas often object to nail trimming. Start a puppy early, but if it becomes a major struggle, let a professional do it.