Also known as the Japanese Shiba Inu, Japanese Small Size Dog, Shiba Ken, and simply the Shiba, the Shiba Inu is an intelligent and independent breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
History
The origin of the Shiba Inu can be traced all the way back to 3rd century Japan. Enthusiasts believe the breed to have originated several hundred years before that time, though this has never been proven scientifically or otherwise.
Throughout its history, the Shiba Inu has been most commonly used for hunting and flushing out small game such as birds and rabbits, and as a companion, proving its superior abilities to both work and provide loyal friendship.
Introduced to the United States in the 1950’s, the first recorded litter of puppies was born on American soil in 1954. The Shiba Inu was finally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1992.
Today, while the Shiba Inu has attained an underground popularity as a companion dog, the breed remains rather rare outside of Japan.
Personality Traits
Best known for its independent and confident nature, the Shiba Inu can be difficult to train, though this breed is very clean and often housebreaks easily. These dogs are highly intelligent and enjoy any sort of mental stimulation. As a pet, the Shiba Inu is loyal and loving, without showing much affection.
Train-ability
Due to its independent, overly confident, and somewhat stubborn manner, the Shiba Inu can prove challenging to initially train. Once the dog has submitted to learning the very basics, this breed usually responds well to ongoing training and handling.
Establishing immediate dominance and respect is key to successfully training the Shiba Inu. These dogs respond best to a stern yet gentle approach by an experienced, patient, strong, and confident handler.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Shiba Inu, such as its no hassle, low maintenance coat, which only requires occasional brushing. This breed is very active and often quite entertaining and amusing to watch while at play. When properly socialized from a young age, the Shiba Inu gets along well with small children and other pets. The Shiba Inu is loyal and loving, making a nice family pet and companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Shiba Inu. These dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Shiba Inu not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The Shiba Inu has a strong instinct to hunt and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, this breed is rather quick, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Shiba Inu must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
As previously mentioned, the Shiba Inu remains somewhat rare outside of its native Japan and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Shiba Inu is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation – dislocation of the knee, glaucoma, cataracts, epilepsy, various skin allergies, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Shiba Inu? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Sources:
http://www.akc.org/breeds/shiba_inu
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/shiba_inu
