Introduction to the Shiba
by Sharon Roble of Kessaku Kennels
First of all it is important to realize this incredibly cute dog is close to the appearance and prey drive of the Dingo, that being said if you are still reading this and would like to add a Shiba to your family, the following information should help to make an informed decision. Their life span is anywhere from 13 to 14 years with some easily making 17 years old.
Shiba Inu are among the most primitive of breeds, used for hunting and boar trials in early Japan, they are hardy little dogs with a lot of spunk. (I personally believe they must have been used to pull the stuffing out of old futons. Watching them play with stuffed toys you will see how I came up with that.) Intelligent and mischievous they can be escape artists, and they should not be left off leash, unless in a secure fenced yard. Once out they will have a neon sign in their brains that flashes RUN RUN RUN.
On the positive side, they are hardy dogs, a great size, very entertaining, very easy to housebreak, and very pretty to look at.
The size generally will be 15.5 inches for males and 14.5 inches for the ladies. The weight averages 24 pounds for the males and 17 pounds for the females. This, of course, can vary according to lines and feeding schedules.
The colors approved by the standard as preferred are red, red sesame, and black & tan, all colors are to have a variation of cream or buff on the sides of the muzzle and the undercoat. The Japanese word for this marking is Urajiro and is very important to the type of the breed. However, sometimes cream shibas are available, as that color turns up from time to time. Do not fall for the line they are "a rare color;" it is just a dilute of the red color.
Some of the characteristics of this breed may make it unsuitable for some families. First of all they "blow" their coats twice a year and at that time you will have "dust bunnies" large enough to name. If you are a neat freak this might not be the dog for you.
Shibas can also be same sex aggressive, so keeping that in mind if you have a dog that is a male look at getting a female. Also, with a strong prey drive it is not a good idea to think a Shiba will love your pet hamster or bird unless it is as a snack. I do know of Shibas that get along well with other pets, but it is the exception not the rule.
One other point to prepare you for is the complaint mechanism the Shiba uses to voice displeasure... it is called the "Shiba Scream" and it can blow your eardrums out. Shibas dislike any type of restraint and will sometimes voice their opinion in this manner. It is a great attention getting mechanism and when you are doing their nails and your ear is close it can be literally deafening. Cotton balls (or shed out undercoat from your Shiba) are recommended.
Buying from a reputable breeder is a must; never buy from a pet store or large commercial breeder. Ask to see certification for hips, knees and eyes for the parents of your pup. Any member of the SCGNY can help you find a good breeder or rescue contacts if you choose that option.
Socialization is very important, and should begin right away; the more you put into your Shiba pup at an early age the better pet they will be.
Shibas are known to have some hereditary problems, luxating patellas, heart murmurs, cataracts, hip dysplaysia, and some cases of glaucoma have been reported. By choosing a breeder that does not breed affected dogs you will better your odds of having a happy, healthy Shiba.