Along with the Akita Inu, the Shiba Inu is also a very famous dog breed from Japan. The Shiba is one of the few ancient breeds that still exists today. Despite the modest body, they are famous for their bravery and loyalty, willing to fight for their owner’s family. Nowadays, the number of Shiba dogs is very limited, which leads to their high price. For more information about the Shiba’s origin, characteristics and temperament, you can refer to the article below.

The origin of the Shiba

The Shiba Inu is a Japanese ancient dog breed that at least dates back the 3rd century BC. However, this breed was almost extinct in World War II. The current Shiba Inu puppies are bred from three surviving bloodlines: the Shinshu Shiba from Nagano, the Mino Shiba from Gifu and the San’in Shiba from Tottori and Shimane.

The Shinshu Shiba is small with a thick red coat. The Mino Shiba commonly has thick ears and a crescent-shaped tail, instead of the usual curled tail of the Shiba. The San’in Shiba is larger in size than most of the current Shiba breeds. They are usually black, with no tan and white accents like other modern black – tan Shibas. All of these three lines were combined to create a new breed – Shiba Inu.

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Shiba Inu Characteristics

Appearance

The body of Shibas is quite compact with well developed muscles. Males are 35 to 43 cm tall, while females are 33 to 41 cm tall. Their average weight is about 10 kg for males and 8 kg for females. They have a relatively flat face and a fairly small snout. The ears have a triangular shape, erecting on top of their head. Their tail is short and thick.

Their fur is curled up on the back. Their coat has two layers: a hard straight outer layer and a soft thick inner layer. They have short facial hair. The hair on their faces, ears and legs are fox-like. The coat is about 4 to 5 cm in length at the shoulders and slightly longer on the tail. Shibas come in a variety of colors, such as red, black and brown, or sesame (red with turquoise), with a cream undercoat, tan or gray.

Physical features usually does not affect the price of a Shiba Inu. Their price is almost the same for all colors and sizes, except for superior puppies with outstanding appearance and good breeding potential. In such cases, the prices will be higher.

Shiba Inu Temperament

The Shiba Inu tends to show independence and sometimes, even aggressiveness. Shiba Inu dogs are best kept in families without other small dogs or children. Nevertheless, if you have good training methods, they can be obedient.

Although shy around strangers, Shibas are loyal and affectionate to those who have earned their respect. They are relatively difficult and loves cleanliness. They often lick their feet like cats and usually move in their own distinct way to keep their coat clean. Strangely, they actually like to swim and play in the pool.

One distinguishing characteristic of this breed is “Shiba scream”. When excited or unhappy, Shiba Inu dogs will let out a loud and high scream. The Shiba Inu is also a smart and naughty dog, knowing how to light up the atmosphere in the family. They are great companions and hardworking rodent hunters.

>> Shiba Inu price range. Where to buy a Shiba Inu puppy?

Dog Price List, Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu temperament & characteristics. Japanese Shiba Inu History & Origin