Fur your information - Shiba Inus

A guide to making your dog's life better and help you in strengthening the bond between you and your

best friend through practical information and real life experience.

Shiba Inus are a strange dog. There, I said it and I meant it. Of course, though, I also love them dearly as we have had 4 shibas over the course of our life...Kyoto being number 4. Whenever people ask, I almost always tell them they DON'T want a shiba. They are a difficult breed to handle and be around. You have to be prepared and have the right attitude for it. For example, shibas are generally a rather quiet dog except for the shiba scream. A high-pitched yell whenever they encounter something they don't like. They are very cat-like...giving and taking affection on their own terms, suddenly deciding they have to be in the other room and making a quick beeline for it. Most don't like water, which is strange considering they love snow. Kyoto will hit the doorway on our way out to his walk, check out the weather first and if there is any sign of moisture, puts on the brakes. Then we have to begin the negotiations of going out now or waiting and going out later. And they are stubborn. Boy are they stubborn. They will do what they want, when they want and not a second before.

And then, there is the shedding, and the shedding,

and then more shedding. You can brush a shiba all morning long and gather enough fur to make another shiba, and yet it seems you haven't made a dent. They have a very dense coat and thick undercoat to protect them from the cold (hence the love of the snow) and it seems to grow as fast as your brushing. Don't get a robot vacuum cleaner because shiba fur will just burn it out, but be prepared to sweep everyday if you want to keep it under control (sort of). If you don't like fur on everything you own, this is not the dog for you. And they are not always affectionate, snuggly or cuddly. Again, it's when they feel like it.

Yet, in spite of all these things, I love them to death. They are loyal, protective, great apartment dogs. They are very good at entertaining themselves. And they are smart. I can tell you that having a smart dog is not always the best thing. They can figure things out quicker than most 2 or 3 year olds (and sometimes that means getting into trouble). And, I still love them. There's nothing like a shiba greeting when you come home from a long day, or come back from just taking out the trash. You are number 1 in their eyes (for at least 10 minutes) but it's a great 10 minutes. Makes you wonder how they get along without you. So, if you are looking to get a dog, one that will revere you, cuddle with you, keep their fur to themselves, this is not the dog for you. I hear that a cavalier king charles might be available.