The breed characteristics of the Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is classified in the FCI group 5 (point and primitive type dogs). The Asian Spitz, of which group of dog the Shiba is a part of, has a medium long top coat, which stands off a little. Due to its dense undercoat, the dog must be brushed often during the period of coat change. Its small standing ears round off the face, which reminds of a soft animal toy, perfectly. The tail is usually curled up and is carried over its back. You wouldn't quite expect the extraordinary ability to jump and their muscular body from such an adorable little dog.
The appearance of the Shiba Inu
Their coat is of medium length, not soft but with a dense undercoat. In colour there are many differences. The following colours can be found:
- Red
- Black and brown
- Sesame
The latter can also be mixed with red or black tones. You can recognise a pure breed by the fact that
- on the side of its snout
- around the jaw
- underneath its snout
- at the front of the neck
- above its chest
- on the belly
- on the lower end of the tail
- and on the inside of the legs
they have white fur.
Their skull is broad with an elongated muzzle and small, pointed, standing ears. Their physical proportions fit together perfectly. They carry their tail curled up on their backs.
The height of the male is about 40 centimetres, the female is on average three to five centimetres smaller. The Shiba weighs between nine and thirteen kilograms.
Since the Shiba Inu is a very robust dog, a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years is not unusual.
Often the Shiba is confused with the Akita Inu or even called Mini Akita. Also the Shiba Inus are often mistaken for young animals, since Akitas are much bigger! Shibas are also often regarded as dogs similar to the fox, because of their red colour and tail.