Health AssuredWe have raised the Shibas exclusively since August, 1999. Our shiba parents are tested with OFA and CERF prior to breeding. These test results are online at www.offa.org
The care of our dogs and our puppy people come first at Smiling Bear. We perform extensive health testing on our breeding stock and Pups including certifications for Hip Dysplasia, Patellas, Eyes and Heart Testing, the results of these tests are available for your viewing when you come. |
About the Breed.
There are 6 natural Japanese Breeds. The Akita Inu, Tosa Inu, Hokkaido Inu, Kisha Inu, Shikoku Inu, and Shiba Inu. All except the Shiba Inu all these breeds are associated with an area of Japan. The Shiba Inu is the smallest. Shiba means Brushwood (kindling) and probably refers to the small size of the dog. Inu means dog in Japanese.
During WWII the Shiba Inu almost went extinct. Luckily, the breed was saved and is now more protected than ever. The Shiba was imported to the US in the 80's. The AKC breed standard calls for weights around 17 pounds for a female and 23 pounds for a male. But, the breed has grown larger with males around 25 to 30 pounds and females slightly smaller. The height have stayed the same with 16 inches at the high end and 14 in height for the shorter individuals. It could be our feeding in North America has just filled the Shiba out! |
Personality
The well-bred Shiba Inu is good-natured, alert, and bold. They are strong-willed and confident, and often has their own ideas about things. They are loyal and affectionate with family, though tends to be suspicious of strangers. They can be free willed and stubborn but with proper training can be incredible dogs.
Like every dog, the Shiba Inu needs early socialization — exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences — when they're young. Socialization helps ensure that your Shiba puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
The Shiba Inu is best suited to a home with a fenced yard. He is an active breed who likes to play, take walks, or jog along with you. Giving him room to roam will help.
Since the Shiba was bred for hunting in it's native Japan it has a very high prey drive. So hamsters, guinea pigs or budgies do not make good playmates for your Shiba. But, your pup would love a kitten for a playmate. If socialized early with felines, the Shiba will grow to believe that cats are their best friend.
Like every dog, the Shiba Inu needs early socialization — exposure to many different people, sights, sounds, and experiences — when they're young. Socialization helps ensure that your Shiba puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog.
The Shiba Inu is best suited to a home with a fenced yard. He is an active breed who likes to play, take walks, or jog along with you. Giving him room to roam will help.
Since the Shiba was bred for hunting in it's native Japan it has a very high prey drive. So hamsters, guinea pigs or budgies do not make good playmates for your Shiba. But, your pup would love a kitten for a playmate. If socialized early with felines, the Shiba will grow to believe that cats are their best friend.