The Shiba Inu is one of the oldest and most popular dog breeds in Japan. One of six native dog breeds, it has become a pop culture icon. You can find them in collectible gacha forms, viral doge memes, and even in the form of cryptocurrency. The history of the Shiba Inu dates back to the breed’s origins when the first settlers arrived in Japan around 7000 BC.

The Japanese describe the Shiba Inu as follows: kan-i – brave and calm, ryosei – good-natured, gentle, loyal, soboku – sincere, open, spontaneous... Among other Japanese dogs (Akitas, Hokkaidos, Kishis, Kais, and Shikos), the Shiba family is the largest.

They originated on Honshu, the largest island of Japan. As Shintoists, the Japanese were closer to nature, and dogs played a significant role in their lives. When searching for the roots of the Shiba Inu, one can find the Japanese wolf and the old Spitz dogs. It is also known that they have been used to hunt birds and animals since ancient times.

Proper grooming is essential for Shibas to maintain their overall health and ensure their coat remains in optimal condition. However, it is important to remember that maintaining healthy skin and coat is not just about external care; internal factors also play a role. This includes a proper diet tailored to their needs. A balanced diet rich in nutrients is vital to maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat from the inside out.

It is also important to recognize that a dog’s mental well-being also affects their physical appearance. Stress and anxiety can manifest in a variety of ways, including through their skin and coat. Therefore, in addition to grooming and nutrition, it is essential to provide your Shibas with a positive and enriching environment for their overall well-being.

Bathing: It is very important to bathe your Shibas only when necessary to avoid stripping their natural oils from their coat, as this can lead to dryness and irritation. When bathing your pet, choose high-quality, natural products to maintain the health of their skin and coat. Also, rinse all products thoroughly to remove any traces of shampoo, which can cause discomfort and skin problems.

Brushing: Brushing is essential, especially during shedding season, as it effectively removes loose fur and prevents mats. Also, between shedding seasons, regular brushing helps to revitalize the coat and gently clean it between baths. However, it is very important to use the right equipment and techniques to avoid skin irritation or damage to the coat. Choose gentle brushes specifically designed for double-coated breeds to ensure a comfortable grooming experience for your Shiba Inu.

Some claim that the name Shiba comes from the word shibafu, meaning a tuft of grass - the grass that turns brown in winter resembles the fur of the Shiba. Others derive this name from a bush dog. Still others believe that the name was determined by the old dialect of the local population, where Shiba means small.

When speaking of Shiba, the Japanese sometimes add the word ken. Ken, or inu, means dog. They were also called Bawa inu (red dog). In the 6th century, the history of Japan began to be written. The first constitution appeared, and the imperial court established an institution for the protection of dogs. Later, the military regime strengthened in the country, and privileged samurai warriors appeared. Warlords - shoguns - took power. Under the rule of the shoguns, dogs flourished. The fifth dynasty of shoguns was even called the dog shoguns. The latter revered dogs: they built shelters for the homeless, and protected the rights of dogs more than people.

When Japan opened its borders, new winds blew. It became fashionable to import other breeds of dogs from Europe, and local dogs became a sign of vulgarity. However, breed lovers still did not abandon the Shiba and founded the Japanese Dog Protection Organization, and Japanese dogs were declared a national treasure.

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