Janeryl Shibas - Breed Info

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Breed Info

The shiba is the smallest and oldest of the native Japanese breeds, who's original purpose was for hunting birds and small game in the dense undergrowth of Japan's mountainous regions. The Second World War had a devasting effect on shiba populations in Japan, with only three blood lines remaining - Sanin shiba, Mino shiba and the Shu Shu shiba. It is from the Shin Shu shiba that todays shibas have evolved.
In recent times the shibas’ good nature and inquisitive alertness has made them Japan's Number One family pet dog. Although an excellent watchdog, the shiba rarely barks without good reason – I always say ‘if a shiba is barking, go see why’ They can be very agile:, a skill which may be used to the owners disadvantage if the shiba is not kept entertained. Shiba gardens need high and secure fencing as the shiba can climb and squeeze thro' the smallest of gaps if so desired.
Not the easiest of breeds to train for off lead as shibas can be strongwilled and most still have a strong desire to hunt. The shiba never passes up an opportunity to chase rabbits, squirrels etc. Having said that, fair and consistant training will reap rewards and the shiba can become a loyal obedient dog - we are lucky to have a very high success rate with our offlead training and 90% of ours are reliable offlead and it's one of my lifes greatest pleasures to watch 6 or 7 shibas racing about a field together and returning when called, proving that persistence and patience can pay off.
	Housetraining is rarely a problem as this breed tends to be fastidously clean, the coat however can cause headaches for the very houseproud - it's a double coat with a harsh outer and dense undercoat. Its this soft undercoat that tends to shed approx. twice a year, but reqular brushing and bathing will keep the shedding to an acceptable level.
	The shiba comes in just 4 colours - red, black and tan, sesame (red with black tipping on the outer hairs) and white/cream. A distingushing feature of the shiba is the urajario (white) markings found on the cheeks, sides of the muzzle,chest, underbelly, and inside of the legs. See the pictures of our shibas and you'll see how striking this makes the little dog.

Talking of little - no one has told the shiba he is little and he tends to have a big attitude making early socialization with both people and other dogs essential if to avoid problems in latter life. He is a compact, muscular dog weighing about 20 -25 Ibs once mature, ( a little less for the female), height for females is 13 1/2 inches, and 15 1/2 inches for males with an acceptable range of 3/4 inch either way.

Raised correctly the shiba makes a wonderful family pet, adoring children, accepting the company of cats and other dogs. he revels in being part of the family and enjoys accompanying the family on outings. But be forewarned they attract a lot of attention where ever they go! You will never get far before some one asks ‘ what breed is that ? its gorgeous!’

If they sound like they may be the type of dog you are looking for, we are happy to answer any questions you have in order that you make the right decisions for your circumstances. Buying a dog is a serious long-term commitment and for the sake of the dog – PLEASE NEVER BUY A DOG JUST ON ITS ATHESTIC APPEAL. Find out all you can about its breed characteristics, its requirements in terms of exercise, feeding, grooming, etc. but most importantly, checkout temperament – meet the parents!!