The Shiba Inu
"A big dog in a small dogs body"
Are Shibas the right breed for you? Quick look...
Shibas are independent dogs and can be reserved toward strangers but are affectionate and loyal to those who have earned respect. Early obedience training is a most; Shiba's need a lot of socialization as a young pup. Shiba's adapts well to different living situations. They must be exercised regularly on leash or in a secure area. Shiba's are not a retriever; do not trust them off a leash, for if they get loose they could be gone for days! They also shed their undercoat twice a year; with their thick lush coats, regular brushing is musts. Shiba's are much like cats; clean yet stubborn and may ignore you until they want the attention.
The Shiba Inu (or Shiba Ken) is the smallest and most popular of the six, native, Japanese breeds. Originally, the Shiba was a hunting dog used to hunt small game and birds. The Shiba is intelligent and is a very independent thinker. They think highly of themselves and want to do things their way. Obidennce training is a most or they will train you. They are fast learners but very stubborn. The Shiba is an alert and energetic breed. Being an active breed ... a tired Shiba is a happy Shiba. The Shiba is aloof and can be very cat-like. Reseverd towards strangers, at least at first, but loyal to their family. The Shiba is not an off-leash breed. The Shiba has prick ears, and a curl or sickle tail. Its double coat is made up of coarse outer guard hairs, and a fine thick undercoat which it sheds twice a year. There are three recognized coat colors: red, black, and sesame. Cream (white) Shiba's will pop up ever once and again but are not reconized in the show rings. All Shiba should have "urajiro" markings which are markings of a white or cream presented on the sides of the muzzle, cheeks, inside the ears, on the underjaw and upper throat inside of legs, abdomen, around the vent and the ventral side of the tail. Males range in size from 14 1/2 - 16 1/2 inches, and females from 13 1/2 - 15 1/2. Weighing anywhere from 17-25lbs. (some weighing up to 30lbs but it's considered to be oversized).
Canadian Kennel Club - http://www.ckc.ca/
Other links:
Orthopedic Foundation for Animal - http://www.offa.org/