Standard & Character

Japan is the birthplace of this magnificent breed. Although it is ancient, its standard was only established in 1964 by the JKC (Japan Kennel Club).

Physical

The Shiba Inu, or more commonly called Shiba, is a small to medium-sized dog. Indeed, its name in Japanese means "little dog," notably because it is the smallest of the old Japanese Spitz breeds recognized by NIPPO (Kishu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, Kai, and Akita).

Males: between 38 and 41 cm at the withers ~ Females: between 35 and 38 cm at the withers.

The body is harmonious and balanced. It is well-boned without being heavy, and exudes liveliness when in motion. The tail is raised, carried either curled over the back or in a sickle shape.

The eyes should be triangular, ideally with the outer corners aligned towards the outer base of the ears. The ears are small, triangular, and set erect, pointing forward. The muzzle is short and rather thick. And the cheeks should be well-defined.

The Shiba can be of different colours: red, sesame red, sesame, black and fire and cream.

There is a variation of red hair which is charcoal red, to which some black hairs are added on the back with an intensity varying according to genetic expression.

The most important feature is the presence of Urajiro, the white mask found on the cheeks, above the eyes, on the chest, the top of the tail, and the inside of the limbs.

In France, this is why the white Shiba is not eligible for confirmation; the JKC ( Japan Kennel Club ) has requested that they be excluded from breeding. 

© Black Sesame/Red Sesame/Black and tan of Breed de la Nouvelle Aube 

The Shiba Inu has a double coat, meaning it has a rather harsh outer coat lined by a much denser and softer undercoat. This undercoat helps regulate the dog's temperature and is therefore essential to its well-being. It sheds during the transitional seasons and is renewed according to the temperatures; this is called molting.

There are long-haired Shibas, which, like the cream-colored ones, are excluded from breeding.

Character

The Japanese use 3 words to describe the Shiba Inu:

悍威 - Kan'i - Intrepid, courageous, and forward-thinking

良性- Ryousei - Good-natured, loyal, and obedient

素朴 - Soboku - Naturally beautiful, in all simplicity

It's true that, despite its sensitive side, the Shiba Inu is a dog that loves adventure and experiencing epic journeys with its owner. It is loyal and gives its all, as long as that trust is there!

He is a truly joyful and lively dog ​​who loves contact with his handler. He also appreciates his comfort and his little routine.

With dogs, they can be a little more independent and reserved. They are sometimes quite playful, sometimes rather solitary, but they know very well how to make themselves understood.

Shibas can be wary if they've had bad experiences (especially during adolescence and with unneutered and/or disrespectful dogs), and can become tense easily. With training, knowledge, and trust, these issues can be resolved.

Motivation and patience are the keys to having a dog who wants to see things through with you. Anything is truly possible!