Features

The origin of the Shiba Inu dates back over 2,000 years in the mountainous regions of Japan, where it was used as a small game hunting dog, particularly for birds and small mammals. Its name, “Shiba,” means “small bush” in Japanese, referring to the dense vegetation in which it often moved. Despite its modest size, it earned a strong reputation as a brave and resilient dog, capable of moving agilely through difficult terrain.

After World War II, the breed was on the brink of extinction, but thanks to carefully planned breeding programs, it managed to recover. Today, the Shiba Inu is one of the most popular dogs in Japan and has also gained popularity in many other countries, thanks to its unique beauty and personality. It is considered a symbol of Japanese culture and is commonly seen in traditional illustrations and contemporary art.

The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog with a strong, agile, and compact build, ideal for quick and precise movements. Its physical structure perfectly reflects its origins as a hunting dog in mountainous terrain. The coat is dense and double-layered, with a straight, somewhat coarse outer coat and a soft, thick undercoat. The most common colors of the Shiba Inu include red, black and tan, sesame (a mix of red and black hairs), and white—all featuring the characteristic “urajiro,” a white marking on the chest, cheeks, belly, and the underside of the tail.

One of the Shiba Inu’s most notable traits is its temperament. It is an intelligent, alert, and highly independent dog, which can sometimes make it seem aloof. However, when it bonds with its family, it does so deeply and loyally. It is not typically a clingy dog, but it shows affection in its own way, being protective and observant of its loved ones. It is also a very clean animal and careful with its surroundings, which makes it easier to keep indoors.

Regarding its aptitudes, the Shiba Inu is very active and needs daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. It enjoys games that involve running, exploring, or solving small challenges, making long walks and interactive games essential for its well-being. While it can get along with other animals if socialized from an early age, it tends to have a dominant personality, so proper training from the first few months is key to harmonious living.

The Shiba Inu is a naturally clean breed, which makes it easy to live with at home. Its double coat requires frequent brushing, especially during shedding seasons, as it loses a significant amount of hair twice a year. Frequent bathing is not necessary, as its skin tends to stay odor-free. Additionally, its nails should be kept short and ears clean to prevent infections.

On an emotional level, the Shiba Inu needs a firm yet patient owner. It does not respond well to authoritarian methods, but thrives with training based on positive reinforcement. From a young age—especially during the puppy stage—it is essential to socialize the Shiba Inu with people, other animals, and various environments to prevent territorial or overly reserved behaviors in adulthood.

Although it is generally a healthy breed, like many others, the Shiba Inu can be predisposed to certain genetic conditions. Some of the most common include patellar luxation, skin allergies, and certain eye disorders such as glaucoma or progressive retinal atrophy. These conditions require regular veterinary check-ups to ensure a good quality of life.

Dental health and weight control are also important for the Shiba Inu. Although it has an athletic build, being overweight can affect its mobility and increase the risk of joint problems. It is essential to provide a balanced diet tailored to its activity level and life stage, and to encourage daily exercise.

At OnlyFresh, you’ll find natural food options designed to meet all the nutritional needs of the Shiba Inu. With carefully selected ingredients and formulas free from by-products, you can support your dog’s health from the inside out and be by their side through every stage of life. Discover the best for your dog with OnlyFresh!