Shiba Inu

Japanese Shiba Inu
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog breed from Japan, known for their fox-like appearance, curled tail, and spirited personality. They are intelligent and loyal but can be independent and require consistent training and socialization.

Origin and Purpose

  • Japan
  • Hunting small game in mountainous terrain
  • Companion

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female13.5 to 15.5 inches (34.3 to 39.4 cm)Approximately 17 pounds (7.7 kg)
Male14.5 to 16.5 inches (36.8 to 41.9 cm)Approximately 23 pounds (10.4 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Red
  • Red Sesame
  • Black and Tan
  • Cream
  • Black Sesame
Type
  • Double
Length
  • Short to Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to Heavy
Grooming
  • Weekly
  • More during shedding seasons
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Moderate in size
  • Broad forehead
Skull
  • Slightly rounded
Ears
  • Triangular
  • Small
  • Firmly pricked
  • Carried forward
Eyes
  • Triangular
  • Dark brown
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Moderate length
  • Tapering
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Thick
  • Muscular
Forequarters
  • Moderately angulated
Fore Legs
  • Straight
Hindquarters
  • Well-developed
Hind Legs
  • Well-developed
  • Muscular
Feet
  • Cat-like
  • Arched toes
Tail
  • Thick
  • Curled over back
Gait
  • Light and nimble

Temperament

  • Independent
  • Alert
  • Confident
  • Loyal
  • Can be reserved with strangers
  • Can be stubborn

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Yes
Good with Children
  • Generally good, but supervision needed
  • May not tolerate rough handling from young children
Good with Dogs
  • Can be variable
  • Early socialization is important
  • May be dominant
Good with Cats
  • Variable
  • Early socialization is important
  • May chase cats
Openness to Strangers
  • Can be reserved
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Moderate
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Hunting
  • Companion

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate
  • Daily walks
  • Playtime

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Prone to patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Additional Notes

  • Known for their fox-like appearance and spirited personality.
  • Require consistent training and socialization.
  • Known for their cleanliness

References