The Shiba Inu: Japan's "Little Big Dog"

The Shiba Inu is one of a number of very ancientblack and tan.The Shiba is a hardy breed requiring
breeds associated with the northern "Spitz type"little vet care. The only problems are usually minor in
breeds from Japan. Its appearance is much like thatnature. It has a cat's desire to keep clean and will
of a "dwarf" Akita, having a fox like face and "brushoften groom itself just like a cat. The coat requires a
coat" similar to the Akita and possessing much of thegood brushing every so often and the nails should be
same temperament. It is a big dog in a small package.kept trim but beyond that this is a dog that is a
Its temperament is strong and independent. The"wash and wear" dog that doesn't need a lot of
Shiba Inu voices its objections or approval in afussing with his coat to maintain his beautiful
manner similar to the Basenji in that it is not aappearance.As one can imagine, not everyone can
"barker" but more of a squealer or yodeller,take on owning a Shiba. Those who do are favored
depending on the situation. Furthermore, it is notwith an extremely affectionate and loyal dog who will
averse to "screaming" and this is noted to be one ofgreet them with great joy and watch over them
the typical behaviors when the dog is upset or is notfaithfully. Once a stranger is accepted into the
getting its way! The Japanese favored this doghousehold, be it for a one time event or as a regular
above all others as a watchdog. It is seldom contentvisitor, the Shiba Inu will show great affection and
to allow any other dog within its territory, let aloneboundless enthusiasm for its new friend. The Shiba is
marauding creatures or even for that matternot the sort of dog that makes a good "outside"
strangers. This is a dog that does not back down.Thedog. He needs to be in the home with his family and
Shiba Inu's head is most distinctive, the ears are smallcan turn quite aggressive to other animals or raise
prick ears and well furred, tipping forwards. His eyesquite a noise in the neighborhood if left to his own
are slanted and almond shaped and very expressivedevices in a pen. Furthermore, the Shiba is a dog that
and the cheeks are full, giving the face a ratherbecomes adept at figuring out ways to escape and
oriental appearance. The body is compact and small,they have been known to climb out of pens with
about 14 to 15 inches tall but only about 10 inchesease. They are highly intelligent and investigative and
long across the length of the back. The tail shouldcan get into a lot of trouble if left to their own
curl up over the top . His coat is densely furred anddevices. Owners of Shiba Inu's would do well to
double coated. Colors can range from cinnamon toinvest in a good crate for confining their dog when
red to red with a black overlay (Aka Goma) andthey are not going to be home.