SHIBA INU

This Japanese breed, whose name means “small dog” in the Nagano dialect, has existed for centuries in the mountain areas near the Japanese sea, and was bred to hunt birds and small game. In the early XX century after a detailed study, the conclusion was made that the pure shiba were becoming alarmingly scarce. In order to control the situation, selective and careful breeding was begun adjusted to a rigid standard. It was declared a Natural Monument in 1937.

PHYSICAL TRAITS of the SHIBA INU
With its 39 cm in height and 13.5 maximum weight, the shiba inu is the smallest spitz dog. It has a sturdy and muscular appearance and agile movements. Its long and straight fur has a rigid structure, rough to the touch but with a glossy look, bicolor in white and black or hazelnut and black. The skull is wide; the head is similar to the fox, with a well defined stop; the muzzle is moderately thick, which gets finer toward the black nose’s end. The eyes, medium to small sized, are triangular, dark, with the outer side tilted outwards, and the V shaped, moderately small ears are very erect and slightly tilted forward.

CARÁCTER Y ADAPTACIÓN
It is dynamic and very courageous, to the point of facing animals larger than it, no matter how aggressive they look. It is very affectionate to the family, especially to the children. Their temperament is docile and its intelligence makes training and adaptation to any environment optimal.

EXERCISE AND CARE required for a SHIBA INU
In case that the family that takes a shiba in lives in an apartment, they must remember that this dog is very active and needs plenty of exercise. It doesn’t need special care except for the fur.