Shiba Inu - general information about shiba inu
Shiba inu is an Asian spitz. There are 5 typical Japanese races and shiba is one of them
(Hokkaido's dog, Kishu, Shikoku, Akita-inu, Shiba-inu. The race comes from mountainous
terrains of Japan. The word 'shiba' means small and the word 'inu' - dog, so shiba inu is just
a small dog. According to other sources the word 'shiba' should be associate with bush or
undergrowth. In such case shiba inu would be a dog, that hunts in copses. There used to be
many shiba dogs in Japan, because shiba was a great hunter (wildflow, small game). There were
small differences between shiba dogs (it depended on their place of birth). In years 1912-1926
pure-bred shiba population fell drastically down. Shiba dogs were often mixed with other
races. In 1937 shiba was recognized as a monument of nature, what caused, that pure-bred shiba
servived. Nowadays shiba doesn't hunt anymore. This little dog is a perfect companion and a
friend of a human. Shiba can be gold, sesame, black, red or reddish. The great character is
one of shiba's characteristic features. This small dog is calm, faithful and easy to train.
It's not aggressive, but it's suspicious to strangers. Shiba will defend the owner, because
this dog has an animal instinct, that guarantees survival. Shiba is similar to Akita-inu but
smaller. Shiba's size is 16,5-14,5 inches (male) 15-13 inches (femles). Weight about 10 kg.
Shiba's build
* Neck: Neck is sturdy, thick and of moderate length.
* Eyes: Eyes are triangular in shape, deep set. Eye rims are black. Iris is dark brown.
* Ears: Ears are triangular in shape, firmly pricked and small. They are set well apart.
* Nose: black
* Bite: Bite is scissors, with a full complement of substantial, strong teeth.
* Tail: It is thick and it'is carried over the back in a sickle or curled position. Tail is set high.
* Body: It is dry and well muscled. Forechest is well developed.
* Forequarters: Shoulder blade and upper arm are equal in length. Pads are thick. Elbows are set close to the body.
* Hindquarters: Hind legs are strong with a wide natural stance. No dewclaws. The hock joint is strong. Upper thighs are long and well developed.
* Gait: Movement is light, nimble and elastic.
* Temperament: A good nature and an unaffected forthrightness. Shiba inu has an independent nature but is loyal and affectionate to the owners.