The Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed and has become very popular as a pet in recent times. It's one of the oldest dog breeds and is known for being cute and loyal.
Whether you're in the US or anywhere else, you can find Shiba Inus from local breeders. But before you decide to get one, there are some things you should know. Here are some fun facts about this dog.
1. Shiba Inu Originated In Japan
The ancient Japanese breed Shiba Inu originated approximately 2,300 years ago in Japan's mountainous regions. Developed during the Jomon period (14,000–300 BC), the breed's primary purpose was small game and ground bird hunting.
The breed's roots trace back to at least the 3rd century BC, marking it as a basal breed predating modern breeds. Regarded as one of the oldest dogs, Shiba Inu stands as a muscular and resilient dog breed, embodying Japan's rich cultural heritage.
2. They Nearly Went Extinct During WWII
The Shiba Inu breed faced near extinction in the 20th century, primarily during World War II. A combination of food shortages and a post-war distemper epidemic contributed to a drastic decline in their population.
The breed's salvation came through dedicated efforts by Japanese breeders who established Shiba breeding programs. Thanks to these initiatives and the commitment to preserving the breed, the Shiba Inu was rescued from the edge of extinction.
3. They Were First Brought To The US In Mid-20th Century
The breed was first brought to the US by a military family in 1954. Nearly 25 years later in 1979, the first Shiba Inu litter was born in the US.
Moreover, the American Kennel Club recognized it as an official breed in 1992 and eventually listed it as a Non-Sporting Dog in 19993. As per 2016 data, the breed was the 44th most popular dog in the states.
4. Shiba Inu Is A Muscular Breed
The Shiba Inu is a distinctive breed consisting of a compact body with a slightly longer than tall frame, creating a square-like shape. Its body is muscular, conveying strength and agility.
Complementing the expressive eyes are small, triangular ears that stand erect and are well-furnished with fur. Moreover, their legs are straight and sturdy, with well-angulated hindquarters, providing the agility characteristic of the breed.
5. They Have Curled Tails
The Shiba Inu's tail is a crucial aspect of its communication, expressing a range of emotions. When held high and curled over the back, it signifies confidence and alertness.
This posture is often observed during moments of excitement or contentment. On the other hand, a lowered tail may indicate submission, fear, or discomfort. Meanwhile, a wagging tail might indicate happiness, a tucked tail could be a signal of submission, and so on.
6. Inus Are Considered National Treasures In Japan
Shiba Inu is revered as a national treasure in Japan due to its deep cultural and historical significance. Recognized officially in 1936, the breed symbolizes loyalty, resilience, and the nation's rich heritage.
Beyond their functional roles, Shiba Inus are cherished as loyal companions. Their status as a national treasure reflects an intrinsic connection to Japanese identity and their embodiment of the nation's cultural ethos.
7. Shiba Inu Is Classified As A Spitz Dog
The Shiba Inu is officially categorized as a spitz breed due to its physical traits, including a fox-like face, erect triangular ears, a curled tail carried over the back, and a thick double coat.
The breed exhibits these spitz-like features, contributing to its classification within this group.
The Shiba Inu was developed as a versatile hunting dog with attributes typical of spitz breeds, such as agility, intelligence, and a resilient nature. Its compact, well-balanced body and the overall appearance resembling a small fox further emphasize its spitz lineage.
8. They Have A Well-Proportioned Body
The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog. On average, an adult dog stands about 13.5 to 16.5 inches tall at the shoulder. The body length is typically slightly longer than the height, maintaining a balanced and agile appearance.
In terms of weight, a healthy adult Shiba Inu generally ranges between 17 to 23 pounds. Likewise, its paw length is proportional to its overall size, contributing to the well-balanced structure.
9. They Have A Friendly Temperament
Characterized by a strong-willed and confident demeanor, this breed is alert, bold, and independent. The Shiba Inu temperament is good-natured as it is incredibly loyal to its families.
Despite their affectionate nature, they often maintain a sense of aloofness and reserve around strangers. While they exhibit a playful and lively nature, their strong hunting instinct can lead to a desire for exploration.
10. Shiba Inu Is Good With Children And Other Pets
When socialized from a young age, Shiba Inus can form strong bonds with children and other household pets. Begin by exposing the dog to various stimuli, including children and other animals.
Use positive reinforcement, treats, and praise when the Shiba Inu displays calm behavior around children and other pets. Gradually increase the complexity of interactions, ensuring a controlled and supervised environment.
11. They Live Up To 15 Years
Shiba Inu generally has a life expectancy of around 12 to 15 years, making them a relatively long-lived breed. A study of cemetery data in Japan even found that the breed lived, on average, 15 and a half years.
In terms of reproductive age, female Shiba Inus typically reach maturity between six months and one year of age, while males may become mature around six to eight months. The prime reproductive age for breeding is generally considered to be between one to six years for females.
12. They Have A Signature Shiba Scream
Shiba Inus communicate through various vocalizations, each conveying different meanings. One distinctive sound is the Shiba scream, a high-pitched, loud vocalization unique to the breed. This scream is often associated with excitement, anxiety, or expressing strong emotions.
The breed may produce this sound during play, when meeting new people, or when experiencing heightened emotions. Shiba Inu owners need to understand this characteristic vocalization to interpret their dog's emotions accurately.
13. Shiba Inu Is An Expensive Breed
In the US, a Shiba Inu puppy can cost anywhere between $1400 to $2200. Meanwhile, depending on the reputation of the breeder, the price could go as high as $3500 per puppy.
In recent years, the dog has gained significant popularity in the United States. The breed's appeal is driven by its distinctive appearance, spirited personality, and cultural influence. As one of the most expensive dog breeds, Shiba Inu is worth its high price.
14. They Have A Gestation Period Of Over 2 Months
Shiba Inu dogs have a typical gestation period of around 63 days, although this can vary between 57 to 71 days. During pregnancy, owners can use Shiba Inu Pregnancy Week by Week Calendars to monitor the development of the puppies.
The Shiba Inu puppy's litter size can range from a few puppies to several. However, the survival rate of Shiba Inu puppies to adulthood can vary, with studies indicating high early life mortality in free-ranging dogs.
The research observed that only approximately 19% of 364 pups from 95 observed litters survived to reproductive age.
15. They Boast A Double-Layered Coat
The Shiba Inu boasts a distinctive double coat designed for insulation. Comprising two layers, this coat features a soft, dense undercoat close to the skin and a straight, coarse outer coat that shields against the elements.
Meanwhile, the outer layer's texture is crucial for providing a water-resistant barrier, keeping the Shiba Inu dry in various weather conditions. This double-coat structure not only protects them from harsh climates but also contributes to their fox-like appearance.
16. The Breed Comes In Multiple Colors
Shiba Inus come in several colors, including red, black and tan, sesame, and cream. Red is particularly popular and widely associated with the breed. Black and tan is another common color, resembling teddy bears to some.
In terms of coat patterns, these dogs typically showcase solid colors. But, variations like pinto (white spotting on the coat) and urajiro (lighter shading on the coat's underside, face, and tail) can occur.
17. Shiba Inus Are Prone To Gastrointestinal Health Problems
Shiba Inus are prone to several common health problems like skin irritations, itching, or gastrointestinal problems. Another major concern is patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position.
Additionally, Shiba Inus may face hip dysplasia, a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't fit into the hip socket correctly, potentially leading to arthritis. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage this condition.
18. They Need Regular Vet Visits
Regular veterinary care is crucial for Shiba Inus to ensure their overall health. Puppies require more frequent visits, typically every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old, for vaccinations, deworming, and general check-ups. As they mature, an annual visit is usually sufficient for routine vaccinations and preventive care.
Moreover, vaccines such as distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and parainfluenza (DHPP) are essential in the early months, with boosters provided throughout their life.
19. They Have A High-Protein Dietary Requirement
Shiba Inus typically thrive on a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs. A high-quality dog food that includes a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates is essential for their overall well-being.
Protein is crucial for muscle development, while fats provide energy, and carbohydrates offer a source of fiber. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like fish, small game, rice, and vegetables mirrors their theoretical historical diet.
20. The Breed Has A Crypto Named After It
The Shiba Inu cryptocurrency, often referred to as SHIB, is an Ethereum-based altcoin introduced in August 2020. Named after the Japanese hunting dog breed, Shiba Inu, the cryptocurrency gained popularity as a meme coin with origins in a 2013 internet meme.
The choice of the Shiba Inu dog breed for the coin's name and logo is attributed to its internet popularity and meme status.
Leveraging the widespread recognition of the Shiba Inu meme, the cryptocurrency aimed to capitalize on the community-driven and humorous nature of meme coins.
