What can you tell me about the Shiba Inu?

Question

I'm interested in getting one, but I want one with black and white fur.

Answer 1

If you mean that you want a black and tan one, that is very possible and will be recognized by the AKC. Black and White would not be, I've never heard of Shiba Inus coming in that color anyway.

http://www.shibas.org/color.html

http://www.shibas.org/standard.html

http://www.shibas.org/health.html

http://www.shibas.org/breeders.html

http://www.shibas.org/rescue.html

http://www.shibas.org/about.html

Answer 2

properly a shiba inu does appear like a fox. merely tell them he's a shiba inu and tell them somewhat heritage of the breed. so then extra ppl are extra knowledgeable. u would sound like an ****** yet a minimum of ur an advised ******.

Answer 3

From what I know of Shiba's is that they can be very weird. They seem a little skiddish, and tense. I have met a few friendly ones, but I feel like I can never really trust them. Just my opinion, they are very cute though!! I am guessing if you get one as a puppy and socialize it well with other dogs and people it will do just fine.

Answer 4

Now let's look at some common characteristics for this breed...


If you want a dog who...

* Is conveniently-sized, sturdy, and spitz-like, with prick ears, foxy face, thick coat, and curled tail
* Is energetic, bold, and spirited -- definitely not a lapdog
* Moves swiftly with light-footed grace
* Thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic activities
* Makes a keen watchdog

A Shiba Inu may be right for you.



If you don't want to deal with...

* Vigorous exercise requirements
* Massive destructiveness when bored or left alone too much
* Suspiciousness toward strangers when not socialized enough
* Aggression toward other animals -- strong chasing instincts
* Escape attempts and running away, oblivious to your calls, when an interesting sight or scent catches his attention
* Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
* Heavy shedding

A Shiba Inu may not be right for you.



If I were considering a Shiba Inu...

My major concerns would be:

1. Providing enough exercise and mental stimulation. Shiba Inus are active go-getters who MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and to use their busy minds to do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by destructive chewing. Bored Shibas are famous for chewing through drywall, ripping the stuffing out of sofas, and turning your yard into a moonscape of craters.

I strongly recommend that you get your Shiba Inu involved in obedience classes at the intermediate or advanced level, or in agility (an obstacle course for dogs), as outlets for his high energy.

2. Suspiciousness toward strangers. Standoffish by nature, Shiba Inus need extensive exposure to people and to unusual sights and sounds. Otherwise their natural caution can become suspiciousness, which is difficult to live with and could even lead to biting.

If you have small children, I do not recommend a Shiba Inu. This breed does NOT like to be grabbed or hugged or held tightly, and if pushed too far, may react defensively.

3. Animal aggression. The Shiba Inu was bred to hunt other animals. Many Shiba Inus are dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. Many have strong instincts to chase and seize small fleeing creatures. This can make for conflict if you own a cat. It may be much worse than that if you own a pet rabbit or hamster!

Shiba Inus cannot be trusted off-leash. They will take off -- oblivious to your frantic shouts -- after anything that runs.

4. Fence security. Many Shiba Inus are clever escape artists who will go over or under fences in search of adventure. To keep your Shiba Inu in, you may need higher fences than you might imagine for their small size. Some Shibas are incredible climbers who require a covered pen when outdoors. You may also need to sink wire into the ground along the fence line to thwart digging. Gates should have the highest quality locks.

5. The strong temperament. Shiba Inus are not Golden Retrievers. They have an independent mind of their own and are not pushovers to raise and train. They can be manipulative, and many are willful, obstinate, and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

To teach your Shiba to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. My Shiba Inu Training Page discusses the program you need.

6. Heavy shedding. Shibas shed a LOT. You'll find hair and fur all over your clothing, upholstery, carpeting, under your furniture, on your countertops -- even in your food. Frequent vacuuming will become a way of life. Make sure you're REALLY up for this.



If you're considering an adult Shiba Inu...

There are plenty of adult Shibas who have already proven themselves NOT to have negative characteristics. If you find such an adult, don't let "typical breed negatives" worry you.

When you acquire a puppy, you're acquiring potential -- what he one day will be. So "typical breed characteristics" are very important. But when you acquire an adult, you're acquiring what he already IS.

Answer 5

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiba_inu

that will tell you alot about the Shiba Inu...

http://www.petfinder.com/

and that site should help you find the one you want near your area

good luck :)

Answer 6

my daughter has one, and she is a beautiful dog and smart dog but she is somewhat of a bi$ch....don't know if it's the breed or just her........

Answer 7

Exactly what is this dog never heard of this bread?

Answer 8

MY FRIEND HAS ONE AND IT'S GOOD