These fox-like dogs are of medium size getting around 16 inches at max. They are alert and a great dog breed for the family.
The Shiba Inu is a spitz breed, meaning that these dogs have pointy ears and a curly tail. They have been in the U.S. since the ’50s, but they especially have been growing in popularity since that last decade.
They Are One Of The Most Ancient Japanese Dog Breeds
The Shiba is one of six Japanese dog breeds. They are one of smallest of the six and were bred in 300 B.C.!
They were only introduced to the U.S. in 1954 when the first documented Shiba entered the U.S.
Shibas Groom Themselves
Shibas are often seen grooming themselves. Of course, they still need to be brushed regularly, especially during shedding season where they blow their undercoat, but they do groom themselves.
This is probably one reason why many consider them almost cat-like as cats will do the same thing.
No One Knows The Origin Of Their Name
No one actually knows the true origin of their name. We know that inu in Japanese means dog and Shiba means “brushwood,” but we don’t know why they are named this.
Perhaps it may be because of their coat red coat or after the terrain they hunted in.
The Japanese may have also called them the Shiba Inu because of their small size as the obsolete meaning of the shiba is little.
There Were Three Kinds Of Shibas
Before the second world war, there were three kinds of Shibas — Mino, the Sanin, and the Shinshu.
Shibas today look the most like the Shinshu, but all three had contributed to the Shiba we’re used to.
Shibas Have A High Prey Drive
As I stated in my article “5 Reasons To Get A Shiba Inu,” Shibas have a high prey drive. In fact, they are even considered a hunting dog.
Shibas were bred to be a hunting dog, so it’s no surprise that they do.
Shibas Can “Scream”
Shibas are usually pretty quite. But that doesn’t mean that they don’t make noises. In fact, Shiba Inus can actually scream.
Yep, you heard me. Shibas can scream! They will also bark, whine and growl. But, they are most iconic for their scream.
Shibas Can Be Very Stubborn
Shiba Inu owners know that these dogs are stubborn. They’re great dogs, but they now how to get what they want!
If you are getting a Shiba, just remember that they’re smart and they know how to get exactly what they want!
Check Out These Articles:
- Why Your Dog Is Howling In Its Sleep – What It Actually Means
- Most Adorable Halloween Costumes For Your Dog
- 10 Dog Breeds That Actually Look Like Bears
- 5 Things Only Shiba Inu Owners Understand
- Pug Care – The Basics of Caring for Pugs
Resources:
Petique
6 Surprising Facts You Didn’t Know About the Shiba Inu
Your Dog Advisor
11 Things You Should Know About the Shiba Inu
AKC
