History

Recent DNA analysis confirms that this is one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Originally, the Shiba Inu was bred to hunt and flush small game, such as birds and rabbits. However, it is now primarily kept as a pet both in Japan and abroad.

In 1936, the Shiba Inu was declared a natural monument of Japan through the Cultural Properties Act. Despite efforts to preserve the breed, the Shiba nearly became extinct during World War II due to a combination of bombing raids and a post-war distemper epidemic. All subsequent dogs were bred from the only three surviving bloodlines, known as the San'in, Mino, and Shinshu.

In 1954, an armed service family brought the first Shiba Inu to the United States. In 1979, the first recorded litter was born in the United States.[11] The Shiba was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1992 and added to the AKC Non-Sporting Group in 1993.

Health

Health conditions known to affect this breed are glaucoma, cataracts, hip dysplasia, and luxating patella. Shibas are also prone to food allergies. Epilepsy is also becoming common in several bloodlines in Australia and the USA. Overall; however, they are of great genetic soundness and few Shibas are diagnosed with genetic defects in comparison to other dog breeds.

Life Span

Their average life expectancy is 12 to 16 years.

Grooming

These are fantastically clean dogs, so grooming needs will likely be at a minimum for most individuals. A Shiba Inu coat is short, coarse and naturally waterproof, so there is little need for regular bathing. However, there is one drawback - shedding, also known as blowing coat. They have a thick undercoat that can protect them from temperatures well below freezing. Shedding is heaviest during the seasonal change, but brushing should be performed on a daily basis whenever possible.