Breed Information
Origin
The Shiba Inu is a Japanese dog breed that was originally bred for hunting small game such as birds and rabbits. It is one of the oldest dog breeds in Japan and has been around for centuries.
Appearance
Shiba Inus are a small to medium-sized breed, typically weighing between 7 - 11 kg and standing around 35 - 41 cm tall. They have a distinctive appearance with a thick, double coat that can be red, sesame, black and tan, or even cream-coloured. Their ears are small and pointed, and they have a curled tail.
Temperament
Shiba Inus are known for being independent and stubborn, but they can also be very loyal and affectionate with their owners. They are intelligent dogs and can be trained, but they have a strong prey drive and may not do well with small animals like cats or rabbits. They are generally good with children, but early socialization is important to ensure they are comfortable around new people and situations.
FIVE REASONS WHY SHIBA INU CAN MAKE GOOD APARTMENT DOGS
1. Size: Shiba Inus are a small to medium-sized breed, typically weighing between 7 - 11 kilograms. Their small size makes them well-suited for apartment living, as they don't take up too much space and are easier to handle in smaller living quarters.
2. Moderate energy level: While Shiba Inus are an active breed, they don't require as much exercise as some other breeds, such as high-energy working or sporting breeds. They are content with a moderate amount of exercise, which can include daily walks and playtime indoors.
3. Low barking tendency: Shiba Inus are not known for excessive barking, which can be an important consideration when living in an apartment building with close neighbors. They are generally quiet dogs, although they may bark to alert their owners to visitors or other stimuli.
4. Cleanliness: Shiba Inus are known for being fastidious about their grooming and hygiene, which can be a benefit when living in a smaller space. They tend to keep themselves clean and tidy, and their minimal shedding can make it easier to keep the apartment clean.
5. Independent nature: While their independent nature can be challenging when it comes to training, it can also make them well-suited for apartment living. They are content to spend time alone, which can be helpful for owners who work outside the home.
Overall, Shiba Inus can make good apartment dogs for owners who are willing to provide them with adequate exercise, socialization, and training. As with any breed, it's important to research and understand their specific needs before making the commitment to bring them into your home.
SHIBA INU AND OTHER PETS
Shiba Inus have a strong prey drive, so their compatibility with cats can be variable and depend on individual personalities and training. While some Shiba Inus may get along well with cats, others may see them as prey and try to chase or attack them.
Early socialization and training can help to improve the Shiba Inu's relationship with cats, but it is important to supervise their interactions and never leave them unsupervised. It's also a good idea to introduce them slowly and in a controlled manner, allowing them to get used to each other's scent and presence before allowing them to interact directly.
If you have a cat and are considering adding a Shiba Inu to your household, it's important to take these factors into account and make sure that both animals can be safely and comfortably accommodated in your home.
SHIBA INU AND CHILDREN 
Shiba Inus can be good with children if they are properly socialized and trained from an early age. They have a generally friendly and playful temperament and can form strong bonds with their owners, including children.
However, it's important to supervise interactions between Shiba Inus and children, especially younger children who may not know how to handle dogs properly. As Shiba Inus are a small to medium-sized breed, they can be easily injured if handled roughly or played with too roughly.
Additionally, Shiba Inus have a strong prey drive and may not do well with small children who may move quickly and unpredictably. It's important to teach children how to interact with dogs properly and respectfully, including not approaching them when they are eating or sleeping and not pulling on their tails or ears.
Overall, with proper training and supervision, Shiba Inus can make good family pets and get along well with children. But as with any breed, it's important to consider the individual dog's temperament and personality and to ensure that both the dog and the children are safe and comfortable around each other.
MALE OR FEMALE?
The differences between male and female Shiba Inus are primarily related to size, temperament, and behavior. Here are a few key differences:
- Size: In general, male Shiba Inus tend to be slightly larger than females, both in terms of height and weight. Males can weigh anywhere from 8 - 11 kg, while females typically weigh 7 - 9 kg
- Temperament: Male Shiba Inus can be more outgoing and assertive than females, while females may be more reserved and independent. However, these differences are not always consistent and can vary depending on the individual dog's personality and training.
- Behaviour: Male Shiba Inus may be more prone to marking their territory and may exhibit more dominant behavior, while females may be more nurturing.
It's important to note that these differences are generalizations and may not apply to every individual Shiba Inu. Other factors, such as genetics, training, and socialization, can also play a significant role in a dog's temperament and behavior. When choosing a Shiba Inu, it's important to consider the individual dog's personality and temperament, rather than relying solely on sex.
BREED EDUCATION
Q: Are your dogs available for educational purposes?
A: Yes, my dogs are available for educational sessions aimed at judges-in-training, dog enthusiasts, and anyone eager to delve deeper into the world of Shiba Inu.
Q: How can interested individuals schedule a session?
A: Interested individuals can reach out to me directly through my website to inquire about scheduling a hands-on educational session with my Shiba Inu dogs.
Q: Are there any online resources I can watch to learn more about the conformation of the breed?
A: We have found the 2024 WUAC Shiba Inu Seminar to be very informative. You can watch it here: