Howling for Shibas

Shiba Inu History

An ancient Japanese breed, the Shiba Inu is a little but well-muscled dog once employed as a hunter. Today, the spirited, good-natured Shiba is the most popular companion dog in Japan.
The first documented Shiba to enter the United States was imported by a military family in 1954. But the Shiba is an ancient breed, having been around since 300 b.c. The breed is named after its history as a hunter in the rugged mountains of Japan; “Shiba” means “brushwood” (referring either to the brush in the mountains or to the dog’s reddish color) in Japanese, and “Inu” means “dog.” By the end of World War II Shibas were nearly extinct, but they survived Japan’s wartime deprivations and are today the country’s number-one companion animal. Their popularity has been growing in the United States for the past 50 years.

Shiba Inu Characteristics

Most Shibas are fairly energetic and love to go for walks. They are not so hyper that they will climb the walls if they don't get daily exercise, but a Shiba owner should be dedicated to exercising the dog, especially if the dog doesn't have an adequate yard in which to exercise himself. In general, Shibas are not massively destructive if left alone once they reach maturity, but some can suffer separation anxiety and should be able to spend periods of time crated even when the owners are home and at night. Crating guarantees a home will remain intact.
Their white markings combined with their coloring (red, red sesame, or black and tan) and their alert expression and smooth stride makes them almost foxlike. They're sturdy, muscular dogs with a bold, confident personality to match.
Shibas tend to be aloof and stubborn, training them is not for the faint of heart and they will definitely let you know when they don't like something.
The Shiba Inu is also considered a Basal breed of dog. That means the breed existed before many modern dog breeds and they have genetic ties that more closely link them to wolves and ancient dogs than breeds like the Labrador retriever or German shepherd.
How do Shibas let you know when they’re unhappy? By belting out an otherworldly wail that seems outsized in regard to their diminutive dimensions. This, my friend, is what we affectionally call the “Shiba scream”. Occasionally you also hear it when they’re super happy, such as when they’re playing with other dogs. Click here to get to know more about Shibas