Learn all about the Shiba Inu
Posted by Warren Smith on
As part of our undying and unwavering commitment to dog breeds, today we are exploring the charming Shiba Inu—one of Japan’s oldest and most beloved dog breeds, with a history dating back thousands of years!
History of the Shiba Inu Breed
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese breed initially bred to hunt small game in mountainous regions. Known for their agility and keen senses, these dogs were highly valued for their ability to navigate dense underbrush and rugged terrain.
Despite nearly facing extinction during World War II, dedicated breeding efforts revived the Shiba Inu, and it is now the most popular companion dog in Japan. The breed was introduced to the United States in the 1950s and has gained a loyal following worldwide.
Temperament and Training
Shiba Inus are known for their bold, confident, and independent personalities. They are knowledgeable and can be trained effectively, though it has been known for cheekier Shibas to test what they can get away with during the training period,
Due to their strong prey drive, they should always be kept on a leash or in a secure outdoor area. Shibas are loyal and form strong bonds with their families, but they can be reserved around strangers and may not always get along with other pets. Early socialisation is key to helping them adapt to new environments and people.
Physical Appearance Attributes
The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog, between 34cm and 40cm tall and weighing around 8kg to 10kg. It has a fox-like appearance and a thick double coat in red, black and tan, sesame, and cream. The Shiba's expressive, almond-shaped eyes and triangular, erect ears make it alert and curious. The Shiba’s compact, muscular body and curled tail reflect its agility and endurance, making it graceful and sturdy.
Global Popularity of the Shiba Inu Breed
The Shiba Inu’s popularity extends far beyond its native Japan. It is most prevalent in rural areas like Kagawa, Shimane, and Tottori, where people have larger houses, unlike in the urban metropolis of Tokyo, the capital city. Dogs are still prevalent in larger cities, but smaller breeds are chosen to accommodate the smaller living spaces.
The breed has gained a strong following in the United States due to its unique appearance and spirited personality. It is still the most popular product in Asian countries other than Japan, where Shiba Inu is commonly found in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Nutritional Needs of the Shiba Inu Breed
Shiba Inus thrive on a high-quality, protein-rich diet that supports their active lifestyle. While there are no specific dietary requirements for the breed, choosing a food that meets their nutritional needs and maintains their ideal weight is essential. At the Innocent Hound, we offer what we believe to be the best food for dogs, including options for a dog food raw diet.
Our air-dried dog food perfectly fits this diet, providing a balanced and nutritious meal that your Shiba Inu will love. Handcrafted in Yorkshire using the finest ingredients, our recipes are grain-free and gently air-dried to retain all the goodness and nutrients, setting us apart from other dog food companies. Whether you have a Shiba Inu puppy or an adult, our food suits dogs aged eight weeks and over. Simply serve it in their bowl and watch them enjoy every bite!