Shiba Inu: origin, size and character

The

Shiba Inu

is a small dog that has many qualities.

His sincerity and loyalty make us forget his independent and fierce temperament.

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Origin

The Shiba Inu was declared a “

natural monument

”.

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The

Shiba Inu

or "little Japanese dog" is a breed of dog that originated in Japan.

Originally, the word "

Shiba

" indicated something small, hence the name "little Japanese dog".

This dog breed belongs to

group 5

, Spitz type and primitive type dogs.

Originally, the Shiba Inu lived in the mountainous areas of central Japan and was used as a hunting dog for small game and birds.

He is now a very calm companion dog.

The Shiba Inu was declared a “

natural monument

” in Japan, which means that the breed has been protected since 1936 because of its rarity and its aesthetic qualities.

Character

The Shiba Inu enjoys spending time with his owner.

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The Shiba Inu is a

lively

and

enduring

dog

, it is a dog that needs regular physical activity to be happy.

If he has to live in an apartment, he will have to be taken out very regularly.

Affectionate, sensitive and cheerful, he is a very pleasant life companion.

The Shiba Inu enjoys spending time with his owner and because of his playful temperament, he enjoys the company of children.

This dog is not very obedient, however, he tends to isolate himself, a bit like a cat.

His upbringing will not be easy at first, his membership in the “

primitive

” group giving him a somewhat wild temperament.

His education must remain positive and free from violence.

Well educated, the Shiba Inu will be a very good goalkeeper.

In addition, being naturally not very talkative, he begins to bark only when he feels in danger.

Read alsoWhy is my dog ​​barking?

Physical

The Shiba Inu is a very sturdy small dog.

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The Shiba Inu is a very

sturdy

small dog

that can make you think of a fox.

Male and female can measure up to 41 cm at the withers and weigh between 6 and 10 kilos.

The Shiba Inu has a harsh coat and a soft undercoat of several colors: red, black and tan, sesame, black sesame or red sesame.

Cream and white or pinto (white over 50% of the body with asymmetrical markings) Shiba Inu are also found.

This particularity of color is not part of the standards of the breed.

Its eyes are quite small and usually dark brown in color.

Its ears are triangular and tilted slightly forward.

Finally, its thick tail is erected upwards and curled up.

Price

The

purchase

price

of a Shiba Inu varies according to the breedings and the pedigree of the line.

Male and female will not cost the same.

In general, it takes

€ 1,000

for a dog registered in the LOF (French Book of Origins).

The most prestigious lines can be sold for up to

€ 1,800

.

Health

The Shiba Inu is a breed of dog that has

no particular health problem

.

This dog rarely gets sick, its life expectancy is, on average, between 12 years and 15 years.

However, like all dogs, it can be prone to skin allergies and suffer from hip dysplasia or dislocation of the kneecap.

Adopting an animal commits you, it's a decision that you will have to think carefully. Do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian or the shelter closest to you before starting. They will be able to give you advice on which cat breed is best for you.