Shiba Inu — breed standard (AKC: size, coat, temperament, type)

Shiba Inu — breed standard (AKC: size, coat, temperament, type)

Claims

• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Origin: the smallest of Japan's native dog breeds, first developed to hunt by sight and scent through the dense undergrowth of mountainous regions; alert, agile and keen-sensed, it also makes a good watchdog and companion.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Size: males 14.5 to 16.5 in at the withers, females 13.5 to 15.5 in; average weight at the preferred middle of the range is about 23 lb for males and 17 lb for females. Disqualification: males over 16.5 or under 14.5 in, females over 15.5 or under 13.5 in.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Build and head: a compact, well-muscled frame; triangular dark eyes set deep and slanting, small triangular prick ears, a black nose, and a scissors bite. The thick powerful tail is carried over the back in a sickle or curl.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Coat and colour: a double coat of stiff straight guard hairs over a soft dense undercoat, with guard hairs about 1.5 to 2 in long at the withers and a slightly longer brush on the tail; the dog should be shown natural, and trimming is severely penalized, as is a long or woolly coat. Accepted colours are red, black-and-tan and sesame, all with urajiro (cream to white underside); cream, white, pinto or any other colour is a serious fault.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Temperament: a blend of spirited boldness, good nature and unaffected straightforwardness that yields dignity; independent and reserved with strangers but loyal and affectionate to those it trusts, sometimes aggressive toward other dogs. Aggression toward handler or judge, or obvious shyness, is severely penalized.
• *[Paraphrased derived summary — non-Open-Access source.]* Faults and disqualifications: loss of five or more teeth is a serious fault; an overshot or undershot bite is a disqualification.