Shiba Inu.

Shiba Inu. Shiba Inu, breed of non-sporting dog from Japan. The Shiba Inu originated on the main island of Japan and in the mountains of Skikoku Island. Bones of the Shiba Inu dating between 2000 BC and 400 BC have been found in southern Japan. Despite a 1937 Japanese law designed to protect the Shiba Inu from extinction, the breed nearly disappeared during World War II (1939-1945). Only three blood lines remained after the war, and all modern Shiba Inu are descended from them. A returning American military family introduced this dog to the United States in 1954. The Shiba Inu has a compact body. It stands about 34 to 42 cm (about 13.5 to 16.5 in) high at the shoulders, and weighs about 7.5 to 9 kg (about 17 to 20 lb). The front legs are strong and straight, and the back legs are powerful. The well-developed shoulders are sloping, the back is straight, and the sides are long and muscular. The chest is deep with well-rounded ribs, and the medium-length neck is thick. The forehead is broad, and a full, pointed muzzle tapers to a black nose. Small, darkbrown eyes are deep-set, almond in shape, and angle upward slightly. Small triangular-shaped ears are erect and tilt slightly forward. The thick, high-set tail curves up and over the back. The coat of the Shiba Inu is a soft, dense fur covered by strong, straight hair. Longer fur grows around the neck and on the tail and buttocks. This dog usually is colored red, but can be red sesame (red with a black overlay), white, or black and tan. White markings on the muzzle distinguish this breed. The Shiba Inu is quick, agile, a high jumper, and an excellent hunter. Ancient Japanese hunters used it to find small game. This active dog requires daily exercise. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized this breed in 1993. Its national breed club is the National Shiba Inu Club of America. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.