Kihaku Shibas: An Explanation of this ancient soul

A chinese lion statue

The breed Shiba Inu, originated in Japan around the 3rd century BC. They are the smallest of the six original and distinct breeds of dog from Japan. Their name means little brushwood dog. They were originally breed as a small game hunting dog. Sent out to kill everything from rodents, to bird and even wild boar. After World War II and a Distemper outbreak, a great deal of the shiba population was wiped out. Shiba started coming to America between the 60's and 80's. They were recognized by the AKC in 1992.

Males are generally 14-17 inches (35-43 cm) high at the withers and weigh approximately 23 pounds (10 kg). Females are slightly smaller at 13-16 inches (33-41 cm) and averaging 17 pounds (8 kg).

Colors and Markings:

Updated: August 13,2008

Shibas have double coats, with a straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat that is blown generally two times a year.

Shibas are recognised in three colors; Red, Sesame, and Black & Tan. Shibas are sometimes born as creams (white), tricolors, and red-headed black & tans. These colors are not considered correct for the breed and dogs of these colors should not be bred.

Shibas also have white markings on their bodies. This white marking is called Urajiro.

Temperment:

Updated: August 13,2008

Shibas generally have an aloof personally around strangers but this can be controlled through socialization starting at an early age and continued throughout their lives. They are described as cat like for their independent streak and cleanliness. They are more then happy to spen the day by themselves with a toy. They are generally not needy or attention hogs.

Health Issues:

Updated: August 13,2008

The breed is know to have health issues that include; patellar luxation, cataracts, glaucoma, and hip dysplasia. Epilepsy has been seen in some shibas coming out of puppy mills.

Responsible Breeders:

Responsible breeders are at the heart of the breed. The strive to improve the breed and preserve everything that makes them so special.

Responsible breeders educate the public and new owners about the breed and what makes them tick. They guarantee their puppies health and will take back a dog if you cannot keep them.

Responsible owners only place the right puppy or dog with the right family.

Responsible breeders want nothing but the best for their puppies and adults.

You will NEVER find a puppy from a responsible breeder in a pet store. Puppies in pet stores are from PUPPY MILLS. Their parents suffer while they produce litter after litter and no care is ever provided. If you want a shiba puppy, please contact a responsible breeder or rescue. Don't support puppy mills or stores that sell puppies.

Right For Me?

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Finding the right shiba or any dog takes time and research. Please reseach this dog and any other dog you are interesting in adding to your family before purchasing or rescuing. This will prevent unnessicary headaches and heartache later on.

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