Cream Shiba Inu: Pictures, Facts & History
By Hanh Duong
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| Height: | 13–17 inches |
| Weight: | 17–25 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12–15 years |
| Colors: | Red, black and tan, sesame, cream |
| Suitable for: | Experienced dog owners, active families with hard-to-escape yards |
| Temperament: | Independent, confident, bold, spirited, vocal, stubborn, headstrong |
The Shiba Inu is one of the oldest Japanese dog breeds. They also belong to six national natural treasures of the “Land of the Rising Sun,” including the Akita, Shiba, Kishu, Kai, Shikoku, and Hokkaido. Of the four colors of Shiba, the cream is the rarest. Although they are beautiful and unique dogs, their coat color has caused some controversy among Shiba lovers. After reading this article, you will get a detailed look at the cream Shiba Inu.
The cream Shiba Inu, unfortunately, is viewed as a fault in the show rings. The primary reason is that in a dog with such a light hue as cream, the urajiro markings are invisible. The Urajiro is a prominent feature of the Shiba Inu and is composed of light patches on the dog’s face, chest, and tail areas.
With the purpose of preserving Japanese breed standards, the Nihon Ken Hozonkai (NIPPO) was established in Japan in 1928. Vibrant color is crucial to the Shiba’s criteria, but this quality is not visible in cream Shiba Inus. However, the only thing that distinguishes the cream-colored Shiba dogs from the other variations of the breed is the coat color.
Cream Shiba Inu Breed Characteristics
The Earliest Records of the Cream Shiba Inu in History
The Shiba Inu is an ancient dog and the most popular breed in Japan. As one of six native dog breeds in the country, these canines have become pop culture icons. They can be found in viral doge memes and even in cryptocurrencies. According to history, the Shiba Inu first appeared when the first settlers arrived in Japan around 7,000 B.C.
How the Cream Shiba Inu Gained Popularity
Shibas have been recognized as a national treasure of Japan and are currently among the most popular dogs in the country. Initially, people used these pups for hunting small animals like wild birds, rabbits, and foxes in mountains. They also served as companions and hunting dogs for the Samurai.
Although modern Shiba Inus still have strong hunting instincts, they are more commonly kept as pets in Japan and other countries thanks to their amiable and spirited characteristics. They are very confident, independent, and devoted to their owners.
Formal Recognition of the Cream Shiba Inu
The first Shiba Inu was imported to America by an armed service family in 1954, and the nation’s first known litter was born in 1979. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Shiba in 1992. One year later, the breed was added to the AKC Non-Sporting Group. Fortunately, organizations like NIPPO and AKC all recognize cream Shiba Inus.
The 5 Unique Facts About the Cream Shiba Inu
1. Shiba Inus Act Like Cats in Many Ways
Shiba Inus sometimes act more like cats than dogs in their behavior. It is challenging to train them because they have independent thinking and might be stubborn. In addition, they spend a lot of time licking their paws and grooming their coats. They are swift and graceful as cats. These dogs are also possessive, especially about their food and toys.
2. There Were Once Three Different Types of Shiba Inus
Prior to World War II, there were three distinct subgroups of Shibas: the Mino, the Shinshu, and the Sanin. They are named after the region from which they originate. Although all three types contributed to the modern Shiba Inu, the Shinshu is most similar to the Shiba today.
3. Shiba Dogs Shed Heavily Twice a Year
Shiba Inus typically have two heavy shedding seasons in a year, over a 3-week period of intense shedding. You might think about shaving their coats, but it’s not a wise choice because their coats play an important role in isolating them from hot and cold weather. To reduce the amount of hair sticking to furniture, pet parents should brush their dogs daily.
4. They Nearly Became Extinct
The Shiba Inu breed was almost wiped out because of the Second World War. Most died in bomb attacks or from disease after the war. Without the breeding programs initiated to help the breed recover, we would hardly see a Shiba Inu walking the streets today.
5. The Oldest Shiba Was 26 Years Old
Pusuke, the oldest Shiba Inu, lived for 26 years and 8 months. He belonged to Yumiko Shinohara and was a Shiba mix. The dog was born in April 1985 and passed away in December 2011. Tochigi Prefecture’s Sakura, north of Tokyo, is where Pusuke and his owner lived.
Does the Cream Shiba Inu Make a Good Pet?
As long as they are correctly trained and socialized, Shiba Inus have the potential to make wonderful family pets. They may not be the cuddliest breed, but they are devoted, loyal, and able to develop close relationships with their family.
Conclusion
Cream Shiba Inus are beautiful, unique dogs. This coat color is the most unusual as well as the rarest of the breed. Shibas can be great companions if they have the right owner willing to put in the time.
Do you have experience taking care of dogs? Do you have a physically active lifestyle? Are you willing to spend your time training a dog? Do you know how to appease a stubborn animal? If the answer to those questions was “yes,” a cream Shiba Inu would be the right pet for you.
Featured Image Credit: OlesyaNickolaeva, Shutterstock
