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So, you’re a proud Shiba Inu owner and you’re wondering if your furry friend is a purebred. It’s only natural to want to know the pedigree of your beloved pet, especially if you’ve got your heart set on a Shiba Inu with genuine roots.
In order to determine the true lineage of your Shiba Inu, there are a few key factors to take into consideration.
Is It Possible To Tell If A Shiba Inu Is Purebred?
It’s possible to tell if your Shiba Inu is purebred. To determine this, if available, you’ll need to examine the physical characteristics and get a genetic test.
Take a good look at your pup. A purebred Shiba Inu should have a distinctive appearance, including a compact and muscular body, pointed ears, and a curly tail. The coat should be thick and come in one of the four standard colors: red, black and tan, sesame, or white. If your dog matches these traits, it increases the chances of being a purebred Shiba.
However, visual inspection isn’t foolproof. For a more definitive answer, you can consider getting a DNA test. Several companies offer this service specifically for dog breed identification. They’ll provide you with a kit to collect a cheek swab, which you’ll then return for analysis. The results will reveal your dog’s breed composition and help confirm if your Shiba Inu is purebred.
Keep in mind that, while the DNA test can provide valuable information about your dog’s genetic makeup, it’s not a guarantee. There may be limitations to the test’s accuracy or validity, but it’s still a helpful tool in determining your Shiba Inu’s breed status.
So, by inspecting your dog’s physical traits and possibly getting a DNA test, you can get a good idea of whether your Shiba Inu is purebred. Whichever way you choose, having a Shiba Inu by your side is always a joy, purebred or not.
Ask Your Breeder Before Making A Decision
A good breeder cares about the health and well-being of their dogs, so they’ll provide you with all the information you need to ensure your pup is purebred.
Ask for the puppy’s pedigree papers. These documents show the puppy’s ancestry and help confirm that they come from a purebred line. Make sure to review these papers and look for any red flags like missing or suspicious information.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the breeder’s experience and qualifications. A reputable breeder should be knowledgeable about the breed, willing to answer your queries, and even give references from previous buyers. These references can provide valuable insights into the breeder’s attitude and the quality of their puppies.
While searching for your purebred Shiba Inu, avoid buying from pet stores or online advertisements. These sources often come from puppy mills, where proper breeding practices might not be followed, resulting in poor health conditions and impure breeds.
Instead, consider adoption from an animal shelter or rescue dedicated to Shiba Inus. These organizations often take in purebred dogs, providing you with an ethical and responsible alternative to purchasing from a breeder.
Remember, finding a reputable breeder is an essential step in ensuring you get a healthy, purebred Shiba Inu. Take the time to research and communicate with breeders to make an informed decision. Your efforts will reward you with a loyal and loving companion to cherish for years to come.
Signs A Shiba Inu Is Purebred
Physical Size And Weight
When it comes to your Shiba Inu’s size, a purebred should fall within a certain weight range. Males typically weigh between 18 and 24 pounds, while females weigh between 15 and 20 pounds.
Keep in mind that their size can also depend on other factors such as diet and exercise.
Bread-Specific Coat Patterns
Shiba Inus have a unique double coat that comes in various colors. Mainly, you’ll find them in red, cream, sesame, and black and tan. A purebred Shiba Inu should have a clean, well-defined coat pattern without any blending or uneven markings.
The AKC standard can be a helpful reference for coat colors and patterns.
Curled Tail
One distinguishable feature of a Shiba Inu is its tail. A purebred Shiba Inu will have a curly tail that can be in one of two shapes: ringed or sickle. The tail should curl up over their back, either resting or nearly touching it.
Facial Features
A Shiba Inu’s facial features are an essential part of its fox-like appearance. Purebred Shiba Inus have upright ears that sit at a slight angle towards the head. Their eyes should be relatively small, dark brown, and somewhat triangular in shape.
How Much Does A Purebred Shiba Cost?
When considering a purebred Shiba Inu, it’s essential to know the costs involved. While the initial price of a Shiba Inu puppy can vary, expect to shell out anywhere from $1,250 to $2,500. Prices can be influenced by factors such as breeder reputation, location, and the litter’s bloodline.
You also need to consider the ongoing costs of owning a Shiba Inu. Here’s a quick breakdown of some typical expenses:
- Food and treats: Quality dog food is essential for your Shiba’s health and well-being. Expect to spend around $30 to $50 per month for a balanced and nutritional diet.
- Veterinary care: Routine veterinary visits, vaccinations, and preventative medications can cost around $200 to $600 per year, depending on your pet’s health.
- Supplies: Items such as a bed, toys, grooming tools, and a leash can run about $100 to $300 initially.
Other costs could include training classes, grooming, boarding, or pet insurance. These costs can add up, so it’s essential to be prepared and factor them into your budget.
Keep in mind that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality. Be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
A healthy Shiba Inu is more likely to save you money in the long run, as it will require fewer vet visits and experience fewer issues.
What To Look For When Buying A Shiba Inu
When buying a Shiba Inu, there are several things to look for to ensure you’re getting a purebred and healthy dog.
You’ll want to check the physical appearance of the dog. A purebred Shiba Inu should have a compact and well-proportioned body, with a strong and muscular build. Their ears should be pointed and erect, and their tail should be thick and curl over their back.
Their eyes should be dark brown and almond-shaped, giving them their distinctive “fox-like” appearance. The coat should be thick and double-layered, with a straight and stiff outer coat.
It’s essential to be aware of common health problems that Shiba Inus may face, such as hip dysplasia and other genetic health conditions. Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
When you’re looking for a Shiba Inu, ask the breeder about any history of hip dysplasia in the dog’s lineage. In addition to hip dysplasia, Shiba Inus can be prone to other health conditions like:
- Allergies
- Eye issues, such as glaucoma and cataracts
- Hypothyroidism
- Patellar luxation (loose kneecaps)
Always ask your breeder about health tests they have conducted on the parents and the puppies. Many breeders will conduct DNA tests to screen for specific genetic health problems, ensuring that their dogs have the least likelihood of developing these conditions.
If possible, meet the parents of the puppy you’re considering, as this can give you a good idea of the health and temperament of your potential Shiba Inu.
Lastly, it’s important to do your research on reputable breeders. Look for a breeder who is knowledgeable about the Shiba Inu breed and takes the time to answer any questions you might have.
Ask for references from previous buyers to ensure that you’re dealing with a responsible breeder who cares about the health and well-being of their dogs.
Keep these points in mind when looking for a Shiba Inu, and you’ll be well on your way to finding a healthy, purebred companion.
Summary Of Purebred Shiba Inu Traits
When considering whether your Shiba Inu is purebred, it’s essential to look at various traits that characterize this unique breed. One key aspect is their temperament; you’ll find that a purebred Shiba Inu has a bold and fiery personality which can make them both charming and a challenge.
In terms of energy levels, these dogs are quite high-energy, meaning they require a good amount of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Given their history as hunters, they are naturally athletic and agile, a trait that should be obvious in a purebred Shiba Inu.
Shiba Inus are also known for their independent nature, which can make them difficult to train. While they possess a remarkable level of intelligence, they are not always eager to please or follow commands. This is why early training and socialization are particularly important for this breed. A purebred Shiba Inu will showcase this strong-willed demeanor.
As for their personality, these dogs are quite spirited and good-natured. They belong to the non-sporting group of breeds, which means they weren’t specifically bred for a certain sport or job and can serve as companion dogs. You may notice that your Shiba Inu is a bit vocal and displays territorial or possessive behaviors, which is typical for the breed.
These traits, combined with their loyalty to their owners, make Shiba Inus very popular dogs around the world. When evaluating your dog, if they possess most of the traits mentioned above, it’s highly likely you have a purebred Shiba Inu on your hands. Just remember that while these characteristics can be strong indicators of their purity, other factors like lineage and pedigree should be considered for absolute certainty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shibas Purebred?
Shiba Inus are a purebred dog breed originating from Japan. They have a distinct appearance and temperament, making them easily recognizable. To ensure that you are getting a purebred Shiba, it’s essential to purchase from a reputable breeder or consider adopting from a Shiba-specific rescue.
How Do I Know If My Shiba Is A MAME?
Mame Shiba Inus are smaller and lighter than the standard breed. Check their weight and size compared to the breed standard to see if they are a Mame. Consulting a breeder or vet can also confirm.
Why Is My Shiba Not Fluffy?
Shiba Inus have a thick double coat that can vary in fluffiness. Some may shed their undercoat during a coat-blowing phase. Consistent grooming and a balanced diet can promote a healthy coat. Consult your veterinarian for any health concerns.
Can You DNA Test A Dog To See What Breed It Is?
Discover your dog’s breed and potential health issues with a DNA test kit. Collect a saliva sample and send it to a lab for analysis. Results will be available in a few weeks.
