However, there are species that, to a person not versed in cynology, at first glance may seem absolutely the same. Some of the representatives of this category are the Akita Inu and Shiba Inu breeds.
Origin of the Akita Inu and Shiba Inu breeds
Akita Inu and Shiba Inu are Japanese breeds. Inexperienced dog breeders do not always see the differences between them. Although both varieties belong to the category of the oldest, the origin of the Akita Inu dates back to the second millennium BC, and the Shiba Inu (Shiba Inu) - to the third century BC. e.
Read a more detailed description of the Shiba Inu breed here.
The Akita Inu has a feature that is highly valued by dog breeders - it was created by nature and not artificially bred. Its representatives began to live near humans thanks to the diligent process of domestication. Akita Inus were pampered in every possible way, and their own servants were assigned to them. The wide distribution of individuals throughout Japan increased their numbers, endurance, and intelligence. These qualities led the Japanese to the idea of using the Akita in warfare. But by the end of World War II, only a few Akita Inu remained. Japanese dog breeders have made every effort to preserve the breed.
This is interesting: Pros and cons of the Akita Inu breed
Shiba Inu, unlike Akita, is the result of selection. It was brought to Japan by immigrants from Korea. Further crossbreeding with local breeds has put the Shiba in danger of extinction. In the twentieth century, the government became serious about preserving the Shiba Inu. For this purpose, purebred representatives were selected. In 1934, the Shiba Inu breed standard was approved, and in 1936 it was made a national treasure of Japan. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognized this variety in 1964. Today, the Shiba Inu remains one of the most popular companion dogs in many countries.
Historical reference
The Shiba (or Shiba) is a native breed of Japan that has lived there since time immemorial, it is one of the most ancient dogs.
The word "shiba" means something "small", "small dog".
Shiba's habitat was located in mountainous areas near the Sea of Japan. When dogs like the English Setter and Pointer were imported from England between 1868 and 1912, hunting became a sport in Japan and crossbreeding of Shibas with English dogs became prevalent, causing purebred Shiba Inus to become very rare , to the point where that in 1912-1926 practically disappeared.
Hunters and other educated people began to seriously fight for the preservation of the Shiba Inu breed around 1928, and in 1934 a breed standard was drawn up.
In 1937, the Shiba was recognized as a natural heritage of the country , after which the breed increased in quantity and improved in quality, becoming currently one of the best.
Currently, Siba has become beloved and popular not only in her homeland, but also in America and European countries.
An alternative name for the breed sounds like Shiba-ken, which is due to the double interpretation of the corresponding hieroglyph. also possible to write Shiba Inu according to the transcription of the Latin spelling (FCI-Standard No. 257, Shiba).
Character
Typically, Japanese people can describe the Shiba Inu's character in three words: brave, friendly and charming.
Such incompatible qualities coexist in one pet the first time. These are brave creatures with excellent intelligence and prudence.
Friendly Shiba Inu are very innocent and docile in front of their owner, although they are prone to self-centeredness and maximum manifestation of leadership qualities.
Often the Shiba Inu is characterized by a love of freedom and a stubborn disposition, so the owner should show persistence and firmness when raising the puppy from the first day.
To ensure that the dog obeys its owner, nurseries begin socialization from an early age, correcting the habits and behavioral characteristics of arrogant puppies.
Despite their independence, these are quite disciplined dogs. Leaving more natural instincts, qualified breeders in nurseries make their character softer.
The dog may ignore the owner's command if it finds it uninteresting. They treat the owner with love and devotion, but do not tolerate excessive tenderness towards themselves.
Although even as adults they love to frolic like puppies . They can commit minor pranks and then beg forgiveness from the owner with an innocent look.
It is also worth paying attention to the facial expressions of the Shiba Inu. With their charming smile, they are able to express a whole range of emotions: mockery, cheerfulness, devotion and even indignation.
It is rare to see Shiba Inus barking; alternatives to this are specific sounds: grunting, squealing, howling and even laughing.
Despite the modest description of the size of dogs of this breed, they show good watchdog qualities.
They are able to control the situation, rushing to stand up for the owner and their own territory. They try not to miss a single sound.
They actively participate in all home activities. Shiba Inus are supporters of both calmness and balance, as well as active interaction with all family members.
Mating
To officially breed dogs, owners need to obtain a certificate from the kennel and fill out a special form, but this is only if both the female and the male are breeding dogs and have documents. A gentleman is selected in advance for the girl. The owners agree on the price and date. As a rule, the boy's owner can ask for one puppy from the litter or a percentage of the cost of the animal.
Puberty and the first estrus occur at approximately 8-10 months, and can only be unleashed at 20-25 months. At this time, the third cycle and third heat will begin. The most favorable day is 14-15 from the beginning. The girl becomes playful or aggressive, her loop loosens (before this it should have been hard), and the discharge becomes lighter.
The animals are walked together, given time to communicate and get used to each other. After this, the female is brought to the male’s territory. This is done so that the boy does not look for “pleasure” on the side and gets used to the fact that all pleasant procedures take place only at his home. In addition, males feel more confident in their own territory.
For the first time, an experienced specialist is often invited to help owners and pets understand the process. When the male makes the landing, the dogs are held and helped not to lose their balance. The bitch is held under the belly so that she does not sit down, and the dog is directed into the noose.
Active tremors do not take longer than 5-7 minutes, after which a lock should occur in which the dogs stand for 10-15 minutes . If there was no castle, there is no need to worry, this does not mean that the girl is empty. Fixative mating is carried out after 48 hours.
Read a detailed article on the topic: “Everything you need to know about breeding dogs: appropriate age, what to do if it doesn’t work out, rules and tips.”
Difference
Most people who don't understand dogs can't always tell the differences between a Shiba Inu and an Akita Inu. But if you put them side by side, the differences will be obvious.
In appearance
The first thing that catches your eye is the size.
| Height (cm) | Height (cm) | |
| Akita Inu | 60-70 | 30-40 |
| Shiba Inu | 35-40 | 8-10 |
Shiba Inu is 2 times smaller. Other differences are less noticeable. The standard provides for the following types of Akita colors:
- red-fawn;
- sesame (wool with black tips);
- brindle;
- white.
The Shiba Inu has the same colors, with the exception of white. In practice, both breeds have all color options.
Dogs have differences in the structure of their coat: the Shiba Inu has a thick coat, but it is tougher compared to the Akita Inu. They also have a thicker and denser undercoat.
In care
Caring for an Akita Inu and a Shiba Inu is not significantly different. The breeds require careful care of their coat. Both species shed twice a year. During this period, Akita Inu and Shiba Inu need daily brushing; at other times, 2-3 times a week is sufficient. The Shiba's coat is less fluffy, which makes grooming easier.
The Shiba Inu is cleaner than the Akita Inu. She is bathed no more than once every six months; an Akita may need 3-4. Both dogs' eyes and ears are regularly wiped with a damp cloth, and the length of their nails is monitored.
Both breeds require the same walking regimen - at least twice a day for 1.5-2 hours. Akita Inu and Shiba Inu need physical activity. It is necessary to let your dog off the leash periodically.
An important difference in caring for the two breeds is nutrition. Not just any dry food is suitable for Akitas. Since they are of truly Japanese origin, rice, fish, seaweed and seafood are more suitable for them. If the owner prefers ready-made food, then, in order to avoid problems with the dog’s health, it is better to consult a veterinarian.
This is interesting: 8 distinctive features of Japanese dogs
Shiba Inu can eat premium and super premium dry food. You can choose a natural diet for them, but you must carefully observe the proportions: 30% protein to 20% fat.
In price
The cost of Akita Inu and Shiba Inu puppies depends on the class:
- Show. This category includes standard dogs, without flaws. They are used for exhibitions and breeding.
- Breed. Puppies with good reproductive performance, but with slight anatomical deficiencies. They are suitable for breeding, but do not always win at shows.
- Pat. These puppies have deviations from the standard or defects (not life-threatening or health-threatening). They are unsuitable for exhibitions and breeding.
The cost of Akita Inu puppies in Russia varies from 5 to 80 thousand rubles. The presence of a pedigree raises the minimum price to 35 thousand. You will have to pay much more than the average cost for a show-class dog. Pet Akita Inu can be purchased from an ad on the Internet from 10 thousand.
Buying a Shiba Inu will also not be cheap for the future owner; its price is much different from the cost of an Akita Inu - from 15 thousand for a pet to 80 thousand or more for higher classes. The average price in Russia for Shiba Inu puppies is 60 thousand rubles.
Males of both breeds can be purchased for 10 thousand less. Bitches are in great demand, which determines their high price. You can save even more by purchasing an adult dog. But in this case, you need to understand that her character has already been formed and it will be difficult for her to get used to the new owner and environment.
Ryukyu
Ryukyu is a medium-sized dog: weight varies from 15 to 20 kg, weight - from 46 to 55 cm. The breed looks intimidating and resembles a wild dog. In fact, they are loyal, affectionate and obedient companions. Although, like all “Japanese”, they are freedom-loving and willful.
Ryukyu love their owner and family very much. But they are wary of strangers, sometimes aggressive. And their hunting instincts do not allow them to get along with other animals.
The breed originated on the Ryukyu island archipelago. It almost disappeared during World War II. Restoration began in the 1980s. But even today representatives are rare: there are only about 1,000 dogs.
The color of the Ryukyu is usually brown, less often brindle with a predominance of red, black or white.
It is better to keep Ryukyu in a country house with a large fenced area. If you keep them in an apartment, you will need daily walks lasting at least 2-3 hours. The rest of the care is simple: weekly brushing, as well as cleaning the ears and teeth.
Care and maintenance
The sleeping place for a puppy and an adult dog is arranged not on the move, not in a draft, not near a radiator and away from bright directional light. Shiba puppies are clean, they just need help with this. It is necessary to allocate a place for the toilet away from his bed. After the course of vaccinations, take the puppy outside every 3-4 hours.
You should not go for a walk immediately after eating - active movements with a full stomach are also harmful for an adult dog.
The health of the coat will be maintained by weekly brushing. Twice a year both the outer coat and the undercoat shed - then they do not pluck it, but comb it out.
The dog, washed with neutral shampoo, is blotted with a towel and dried with a hairdryer. Ears, claws, and teeth require regular examination.
The Shiba Inu is not picky when it comes to nutrition, but the diet must be composed correctly. It is worth listening to the experience of the breeder and the advice of the veterinarian, do not feed “from the table”, and follow the established feeding regime.
Shiba should always be able to move. Walk a lot, and play at home.
A regular walk with such a dog is impossible - it needs additional physical exercise.
Similarities between Akita Inu and Shiba Inu
The similarities between the Akita Inu and the Shiba Inu are much greater than the differences. Externally, they differ only in size. Otherwise, the exterior and anatomy of the dogs are similar: an elongated muzzle, triangular and pointed ears, brown and slightly slanted eyes, thick fur, a thick tail, strong jaws and strong limbs.
Puppies of both breeds are very playful and playful in childhood. The difference is that with age, the Akita Inu becomes calmer, while the Shiba Inu can behave the same way throughout its life as it did in childhood. Both dogs are quite disciplined and relatively easy to train. Although the Shiba can show some waywardness.
The Akita Inu and Shiba Inu breeds are clean and do not have the characteristic dog smell. Both dogs are smart and never bark in vain. At the same time, they become very attached to their owner and will always stand up for him. With proper upbringing, Akita and Shiba grow up to be friendly and ready to generously shower their owners with love.
Interesting article: American Akita: characteristics and description of the breed
Basenji
Known as the “no-bark dog ,” the Basenji is an ancient breed that has been around for 5,000 years. Her images can be found on many Egyptian artifacts, Babylonian and Mesopotamian art. After the collapse of these mighty civilizations, the Basenji returned to the wild until their hunting skills were reclaimed by African tribes living along the Nile and Congo rivers. Genetically, Basenjis remain the same as when they were first presented to the pharaohs as a gift. In the shape of their muzzle and ears they are very similar to foxes, although they cannot boast of thick fur.
These dogs are incredibly vocal and will howl until they have your full attention. Their voice is a unique sound, described as being similar to a yodel .
Basenjis are independent and aloof animals, but this does not affect their love for family. They are incredibly clean by nature and love to groom themselves, just like cats. Basenjis require tons of both physical and mental stimulation, becoming destructive when they get bored. Their high energy and sharp mind often get them into trouble.
Description of the breed standard
According to the 1992 standard, the Shiba Inu dog must have the following characteristics:
The height and weight of an adult male is 38-42 cm, 9-14 kg; for females these parameters are 35-38 cm, 8-13 kg.
The muzzle is a little plump, pointed, similar in shape to a fox. The lips are not wide, the jaws are strong and have a steel bite.
The eyes are small, slightly slanted, triangular, the color of dark chocolate. The ears are pointed, small, and the ends are slightly tilted forward.
The neck is lean, low, harmonious with the head and body. The loin is straight and strong. The chest is deep, the tummy is well retracted.
The forelimbs are straight. In the hind limbs, the upper part is longer than the lower.
The coat is short, thick, hard (the undercoat is softer). The following varieties of Shiba Inu color are distinguished: zoned (a small percentage of the fur is colored black), black with red or steel tan, red.
The first type of color can be with a predominance of white - white sesame; black - black sesame; red - red sesame. The deep red color has the advantage.
All colors, with the exception of white, must be lightened on the underside (the so-called urahiro).
Japanese Terrier
This breed is the only one of the terrier group bred in Japan. Their breeding began at the beginning of the 20th century. The goal was to get a decorative dog that would easily adapt to life in densely populated cities.
During breeding, Italian Greyhounds, Smooth Fox Terriers, Manchester Terriers and small aboriginal dogs were crossed. The result was a miniature dog (30–33 cm and 2–4 kg), with a compact body, long legs and very short hair (up to 2 mm).
The Japanese Terrier is easily distinguished by its unique tricolor coat. The head is decorated with a black mask with red and white spots, and on the light body there are dark or reddish-brown markings.
The Japanese Terrier is an excellent dog for an apartment and a family. He is friendly, playful, and gets along with children. However, it can chase cats and rodents, and is wary and somewhat cowardly with strangers. The dog is also easy to care for: weekly brushing with a soft brush and occasional washing are enough. The only thing is that the pet cannot stand the cold, so from autumn to spring you will need clothes.
On topic: Varieties of terriers
Who is better to choose
The strong similarity of the two breeds often gives rise to the question of who is better to have, an Akita or a Shiba. When choosing, you need to focus on many factors: place of residence, free time, physical activity, training experience, presence of animals and children.
Akita Inu will be an ideal choice for people:
- living in a private house;
- having no animals or children;
- able to devote a lot of time to the pet;
- looking for a dog to be a guardian and a hunting assistant.
In turn, the Shiba Inu is perfect for those who:
- lives in an apartment;
- physically active (this will be needed during walks);
- able to show patience in training or already has experience;
- contains other animals;
- raises children.
Expert opinion
Anna Abramenko
An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.
Ask a Question
This comparison is conditional. Both breeds are active, friendly, and strongly attached to their owner. A dog's behavior depends, first of all, on the quality of its upbringing. Even the most restless puppy can be turned into an intelligent and patient animal with the help of training.
Future owners should approach the choice of a puppy responsibly. Under no circumstances should it be presented as a gift. Each person must make his own decision about the degree of responsibility he is willing to assume.
Canaan dog
Canaan dogs reach 61 cm in height and weigh up to 25 kg. Their lean build, bushy tail, almond-shaped eyes and alert, pointed ears give them a distinct fox-like appearance.
Although no one knows how old the Canaanite breed is, the earliest images of it adorn tombs that date back almost 4,000 years.
Initially, Canaanite dogs helped the Israelites herd and guard livestock. When the Romans destroyed Jerusalem and dispersed the Israelites in 70 AD, stray dogs fled to the Negev Desert, where they lived until the 20th century. After the founding of the State of Israel, security was required for settlements, and service dogs were required for the army. Dog trainer Dr. Rudolfina Menzel proposed training semi-wild Canaan dogs. She argued that their ability to survive in the unforgiving desert conditions proved that they were suitable for difficult jobs.
To everyone's surprise, Canaan dogs turned out to be very intelligent and easily trained animals, despite their wild roots. They worked as service dogs, messengers and mine detectors, and after World War II they became guide dogs for the blind. Canaan dogs are confident and alert, and continue to make excellent guard dogs and service dogs.
Upbringing
There will be no harm from an obedience course with a competent instructor, but the main thing in the education process will be:
- establish contact with the dog, hear it and teach it to hear itself;
- socialize your pet from young claws.
Raising a Spitz requires flexibility.
Characteristics of the Shiba Inu breed include an innate increased activity. It needs to be extinguished smoothly, but only excessive activity needs to be extinguished - when the dog is so carried away that it cannot stop itself. Constant tugging can turn an active Shibu into a cowardly, nervous or indifferent one.
Another thing is the satisfaction of activity through games, exercises, and exploration of new territories. It’s useful to stock up on an arsenal of fail-safe “switches” for your dog’s attention.
It is better to start socialization as early as possible. Do not force contacts, but provide the puppy with the opportunity to establish them. Do not interfere with harmless group games, touch little Siba more often, so as not to grow touchy.
While walking, it is useful not to be distracted from the dog. She always watches the owner, waiting for his hint, obvious or hidden.
The flock's territory requires protection . The one who first noticed the threat of violating its boundaries should immediately inform others about it. It is clear that this “first” in the family will be Siba.
You should not scold the dog if its ringing voice woke up the neighbors, even if the alarm turned out to be false (in the human opinion). She, too, was sleeping, and not preparing a prank, she also woke up and saved her flock. A vigilant friend awaits approval. (It is the owner’s task to explain to the neighbors that their house is also in the zone of attention).
The dog will not make noise for a long time - he uses prolonged “barking” only when hunting. It won't hurt to learn the silence command.
Schipperke
Schipperki are actually much smaller than they seem - only up to 33 cm in height and up to 7.3 kg in weight. These small dogs started out in Belgium as hard-working ship's dogs , bred to catch rats and look after valuable cargo.
These dogs hunted in a distinctive cat style and were popular among ship crews, earning them the Flemish name "schipperke" or "little captain".
Schipperkes are fearless, loyal and make excellent guard dogs. However, these beautiful pets can be quite independent and mischievous, so plenty of activity and training is needed to meet their needs.
Reviews
Maria, Moscow: “I’ve been training Akitas for 7 years. And for me there is no better dog in the world. I can talk about them for hours. Akita is proud and independent, but also an excellent companion. I wouldn’t trade such a dog for any other breed.”
Elena, Yaroslavl: “When choosing a puppy, we settled on a Shiba Inu and have never regretted it. The dog got along well with children and our other animals. Owners of this breed are definitely the happiest owners.”
Kirill, 29 years old, Novosibirsk: “Initially I wanted to buy an Akita Inu. But after getting to know the breed in detail, I decided that for my conditions the Shiba was a more suitable option. The dog is willful, but proper training and patience make it an ideal pet.”
Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai was bred in the 1970s to create a smaller version of the Siberian Husky . In 1988, the breed received recognition from most kennel clubs. These dogs are available in many colors, including black and white, gray and white, tan and white, and all-white. The red and white Alaskan Klee Kai is rare and closely resembles the red fox.
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a suitable pet for active people as these dogs have high energy levels and a high need for exercise.
Inexperienced dog owners may find this very playful breed challenging, but with constant training, the Alaskan Klee Kai can become the sweetest and most affectionate pet. He is usually friendly, but can be aloof and wary of strangers.
Keeping at home
The Shiba Inu is more suitable for keeping at home due to its small size, but at the same time, it needs to be constantly dealt with and taught norms of behavior.
A stubborn disposition can only be broken at a young age. Caring for a Shiba Inu puppy will not create any big problems.
It is important to choose the right resting place for your pet. It should not be in a draft or near heating equipment.
A special bed lined with thick fabric made from natural materials is perfect for these purposes.
Shiba Inus prefer peace and quiet, but at the same time want to be aware of all events.
It is best to choose a place for a bell guard in the corridor, where there is a view of the rest of the rooms. To prevent your puppy from damaging shoes, furniture, books and other items, you should purchase rubber toys for him in advance. Array
Sakhalin Husky
The Japanese call Sakhalin or Gilyak Laikas Karafuto-ken. Initially, the breed originated in the Amur region and Sakhalin. But in the 30s of the 20th century they were purposefully exterminated in their homeland. At the same time, the dogs were taken to Japan, where they were revived.
Sakhalin Huskies are considered an endangered breed. Work is still underway to restore and increase the number.
Sakhalin residents are sled dogs. They were also used to bait bears and sea animals. They are smart, brave and very resilient. In terms of working qualities, they are superior to Siberian Huskies, Malamutes and other breeds.
The breed went down in history thanks to an amazing incident. In 1958, Japanese researchers had to leave 15 Sakhalin huskies in Antarctica. Scientists expected to pick them up soon, but due to worsening weather they were able to return only a year later. Surprisingly, people found two surviving dogs. In honor of them and the dead dogs, a monument was erected in Japan, and two films were made: “Antarctica” and the American remake “White Captivity”.
Description of appearance
Mini Doberman (dwarf): what is the name of the breed
Akita Inu were originally used by monks to guard and protect monasteries 3,000 years ago and were strictly careful to ensure that the breed did not get outside the monastery walls. Then the local population adapted dogs for hunting large animals (boar, bear).
Akita Inu is the smallest of the Japanese hunting dogs, but far from the smallest among its relatives. Her height at the withers is 61-67 cm, weight 40-50 kg. For those living in high-rise buildings, it is not very comfortable to have a dog of this size in an apartment, so a smaller copy of it was produced, the appearance of which corresponds to the original, but half the size. The small Akita is called like a Shiba Inu. Translated from Japanese, it means “little bush dog.”
Main characteristics of the Shiba Inu:
- body – muscular, somewhat elongated;
- height – 38-40 cm;
- weight – up to 10 kg;
- back – straight, strong;
- neck – muscular, strong;
- head – has a wide skull;
- chest – wide, ovoid;
- nose – black;
- eyes – dark brown, slightly slanted, almond-triangular in shape;
- ears – medium size, erect;
- the coat is straight, thick, hard, needle-shaped with a soft undercoat;
- paws – strong, muscular, the angle between the humerus and the front paws is 110-120 degrees;
- the tail is strong, curled into a ring. It is not allowed to untwist the ring, lower the tail or lay it on the dog's croup.
Breed standard
The Little Akita has a mostly red coat color, white and brindle are also acceptable. The tiger color can range from a light silver shade to almost black. Black and tan dogs have a bright white butterfly on their chest.
Important! The red coat color can have different shades from light sesame, red sesame (blackening of the fur at the tips) to bright red.
The Mini Hachiko breed has a distinctive feature – urajiro. This means that the area of the chest, belly, lower neck and tail, cheeks, chin, and inner surface of the paws are white. The transition from light to dark color should be gradual.
Sanshu
The Sanshu is another ancient Japanese dog breed that was lost and revived by enthusiasts in the early 20th century. Her ancestors accompanied the emperors, protecting their lives and protecting their peace. And today pets are excellent watchdogs, faithful companions and devoted family members.
Sanshu is a rare breed, almost never found outside of Japan. Also, it has not yet been recognized by major canine organizations.
Sanshu is distinguished by its medium size (41–46 cm and 20–25 kg), a fox face, triangular ears and a tail thrown over the back. The color is varied: white, red, brown, tan, black, gray or pepper and salt.
Sanshu are unpretentious. They can live in a house or apartment, and hygiene procedures require periodic brushing, bathing, and examination of ears and teeth. The main thing is to pay attention to nutrition and disease prevention. If you take proper care of your pet, he will live to be 15–17 years old.
How to choose a puppy and where to buy
It is better to purchase Shiba Inu puppies from a kennel that specializes in this breed of dog, from a trusted breeder. The puppy should not be intimidated and hide in corners. It is better if he looks cheerful and cheerful. It is worth asking the breeder about the baby’s grandparents, hereditary diseases, and blood lines. The puppy must:
- have a breeder's mark;
- to be healthy;
- meet the standard.
A birth certificate must be written out for the puppy. You can buy an inexpensive puppy from a cull.
Additional Information! The color of a puppy may differ from the color of an adult dog, being darker and duller.
Price range for a dwarf puppy
The price range for mini Akita Inu puppies ranges from 30 to 60 thousand rubles.* The price depends on the purpose for which the baby is purchased, its parents, hereditary diseases, place of purchase, reviews of the breeder. Puppies from show-titled parents are more expensive than others.
When buying an Akita Inu puppy, you need, first of all, to remember that this is a future faithful and devoted friend who, despite his size, will protect the owner until his last breath, if necessary.
*Prices are valid as of December 2022.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is another toy dog breed native to Japan. It was bred from Spaniels and Pekingese.
The Japanese Chin is extremely delicate, gentle, loving and courteous. He is completely devoted to his family and gets along well with everyone: from the owner’s children to the cat. Wary with strangers, but not aggressive.
It is vital for Hin to feel part of the family. Dogs that grow up in love and affection are easy to raise. But with a lack of attention or rudeness, pets withdraw into themselves and refuse to obey.
Japanese Chins are intelligent and quickly learn commands. But this is one of the few breeds that is almost not focused on food rewards. Because of this, inexperienced owners have difficulty training.
The coat of Chins is soft, almost does not get dirty and tangle. The color is two- or three-color with red or black spots. A mandatory breed characteristic is a white mark on the muzzle.
What is the name of the small breed, its history
In fact, it would not be entirely correct to talk about this miniature dog as a mini Akita, since at present it is a separate breed called the Shiba Inu. Like most other traditional Japanese breeds, it got its name from the name of the area in which it was bred.
“Dog from Shiba” - this is how it can be translated literally. However, there are other versions. According to one of them, the Shiba got its name from the word “shibafu”, which can be translated as “tuft of grass” by analogy of the color of this animal with the color of sun-dried grass. also a hypothesis that the name translates as “dog from the bush forest” .
In any case, it should be recognized that the Shiba is a very ancient breed. Dogs similar to her were found on the territory of modern Japan already three thousand years ago. The history of this breed is noteworthy in that mini Akitas were bred to guard monasteries and only later were they adapted for hunting. The monks treasured these dogs and made sure that the puppies did not fall into the hands of ordinary people, even the nobility.
NOTE!
The monks especially valued silence in their dogs, as this helped maintain the silence and atmosphere of serenity so characteristic of Japanese monasteries.
But at the same time, Shiba Inu had to be fast, resilient and have excellent reactions necessary for hunting. For a long time they were bred exclusively in monasteries, but, in the end, these dogs somehow ended up outside their walls and almost immediately became as beloved by local residents as the Akita Inu.
Official breeding of the Shiba in Japan began in 1928, when the Society for the Preservation of Aboriginal Breeds was founded, and these dogs themselves were declared a national treasure. The FCI recognized the Shiba Inu as a breed in 1964. And in Russia, the first representatives of this breed appeared at the very end of the 20th century.
Dog handler's opinion
Expert opinion
Kozhevin Semyon Kirillovich
Expert dog handler.
“The Shiba Inu is a representative, albeit similar to the Akita, but still a different breed. These are medium-sized dogs, mostly bright red in color, distinguished by a bold, but at the same time balanced and calm disposition, intelligent and friendly towards their owners. They are better suited for living in an apartment than their larger “relatives,” but you need to remember that these dogs need significant physical activity.
It’s not difficult to keep a mini Akita, but you need to take into account that these dogs need a special diet, since during the long isolation in their historical homeland, the Shiba Inu has developed special taste preferences.”
What to feed your Shiba Inu
An adult Shiba Inu dog is fed 2 times a day. Babies from two months of age should be fed 5 times a day, gradually reducing the number of feedings as they grow older. The diet should be balanced, consisting of 18-20% fats and 20-30% proteins. The diet should include sea fish, raw, frozen and scalded meat, and rice is best for porridges.
You cannot feed your pet:
- cabbage;
- sweets;
- legumes;
- citrus fruits;
- grapes;
- pickled, smoked products;
- spiced products;
- sausages, sausages, cheeses;
- fatty meats;
- rich pastries.
Note! When preparing your pet’s diet, do not forget about the tendency of this breed to be allergic to many foods. A new product should be introduced carefully, in small portions.
Proper feeding
Creating the right diet for a Shiba Inu can sometimes be difficult . The fact is that these mini Akitas, being natives of Japan, are accustomed to completely different products than dogs of other breeds.
In their historical homeland, they mainly feed on rice, fish, seafood and algae. They do not tolerate many types of meat well: they cause allergies in mini Akita Inu. It is also better not to give them most cereals, except rice, as they lead to digestive upset.
NOTE!
Having bought a puppy of this breed, you need to feed him the same thing that he ate at the breeder’s house, since independent experiments with the selection of a new diet for a mini Akita are unacceptable.
Ready-made low-quality food containing soy is also not suitable for Shiba Inu. Of course, many dogs of this breed quite successfully eat branded food, but only those that do not contain harmful components or products that cause allergies.
It also makes sense to consult with the breeder about the frequency of feeding. Typically, puppies are fed 6-4 times a day, but subsequently the number of feedings is reduced to two.
