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Shiba

The Origins of Shiba Inu

The roots of Japanese superstitions are deeply ingrained in the history and culture of Japan. The origins of their cultural beliefs can be traced all the way back to Japan’s ancient pagan philosophies, the regard for certain natural things as kami (spirits or phenomena that are worshiped in the religion of Shinto), and the animist culture. The outcome of this is that many Japanese superstitions involve belief about animals and depictions of animals bringing about good or bad fortune. This concept makes animals even more important in the Japanese culture.

Sleepy Shiba Inu

Aside from animals being part of superstitious beliefs, there is also a popular monument to commemorate the timeless tale of friendship and loyalty of dogs, at Shibuya in Tokyo. Animals used to be predominantly thought of as indispensable help in working farm lands but over the years many Japanese have considered them as part of the family. Hachikō was an Akita with golden brown fur and cream markings on his face.

Another popular canine breed in Japan and is one of the six native Japanese dog breeds is Shiba Inu. The other five breeds are of course, Hachiko’s breed, Akita Inu, Hokkaido, Kishu Ken, Shikoku and Kai Ken. The Shiba breed is the smallest among the native Japanese breeds and all the dog breeds belong to the spitz family. The Shiba breed is quite unique with its distinctive bloodline, temperament, size, and character.

Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a result of centuries of selective breeding and importation. The word inu in Japanese means dog while shiba means “brushwood”. The breed’s initial purpose was to hunt for small game. Evidence found from 300 BC depicts ancient Japanese families having Shiba looking dogs. Because of their size, Shiba’s are very agile and great hunters of rabbits, foxes, hares, and wild poultry. Dogs and cats are capable of giving so much unconditional love,  and will always be faithful companions in the best and worst of times.

 

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Read all about Japanese immersion learning and studying abroad. Check out our eZasshi archives for more articles!