Petchao.com is supported by readers, and when you buy something we recommend, we may get an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Read more here.
Cream is one of the distinctive coat colors of the Shiba Inu, an ancient Japanese dog breed. While cream Shiba Inus are unique and beautiful in their own way, they have stirred some controversy in dog circles. In this article, we’ll get an overview of the breed, including what you should know about them, and explain why they’re controversial. Let’s dive right in!
What is a cream Shiba Inu?
The only physical difference between cream Shibas and all other dogs of the same breed is their coat color. A cream Shiba Inu has a light-colored coat with hints of red and gray. That’s why Urajiro markings are not very obvious or prominent, making them appear whiter.
If you don’t know, urajiro means “undersurface white.” It’s a term that describes the white color marks that all Shibas have on their chest, face, belly, inner ears, and legs.
Controversy with cream Shiba Inus
The cream color is facing some controversy over the breed standard. While some enthusiasts want cream Shiba Inus to be faultless in the show rings, many others, especially those from Japan, wish this coat color gene to be removed from the gene pool.
The main reason is that Urajiro markings, which are very important in judging the Shiba Inu’s standard, cannot be seen well on a dog with such a light coat color as cream.
You might wonder why someone would want a dog that doesn’t meet the standard set by their native country. However, it’s a contestable topic and will need more time and accurate insight to resolve.
Is cream Shiba the same as white Shiba?
Cream Shiba Inus are sometimes called white Shiba Inus and vice versa, but they are different! A cream Shiba has a white coat with either red or gray tinges, whereas the term “white Shiba” could refer to an all-white dog.
How many types of Shiba Inu are there?
Black and tan, red, sesame, black sesame, and red sesame are the Shiba Inu colors recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI). Meanwhile, the American Kennel Club (AKC) only recognizes black and tan, cream, red, and red sesame Shibas.
Are cream Shiba Inus rare?
Yes, cream Shiba Inus are pretty rare.
History
To properly understand a breed, it’s always better to have some knowledge of its history. Relax! We won’t bore you with a lengthy history lesson! We only briefly explore their past in two short paragraphs. Let’s go!
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese breed that has existed since 300 B.C. According to the National Shiba Club of America, they were bred to hunt small game, birds, and occasionally wild boar.
They nearly became extinct during World War II, but their number has rebounded significantly. They’ve risen to become the most popular companion dog in Japan and the 42nd most popular breed in the United States.
Size
Cream Shiba Inus are considered medium-sized dogs. Their size makes them one of the better breeds for families with children who want smaller pets.
A smaller Shiba will fully mature at one year of age, while a larger one will continue to grow until 14 months. And an adult should look compact and well-proportioned.
Males typically stand up to 16.5 inches tall and weigh about 23 pounds. Females tend to be smaller, standing around 13.5 inches tall and weighing 17 pounds.
Lifespan and health
Fortunately, the recessive gene that results in the cream-colored coat type has no impact on the Shiba’s health, and a cream Shiba Inu is not an albino. Again, coat color is the only difference between cream Shibas and other Shiba types. As a result, you can expect all biological similarities in each coat color.
Cream Shiba Inus often live between 12 and 15 years, and it’s generally a happy, healthy ride. Allergies, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation are some of their potential genetic problems. As a responsible owner, you should closely monitor any symptoms of these conditions and alert your vet if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
Temperament
Any dog’s temperament might vary depending on many factors, such as lineage and upbringing, but overall, cream Shiba Inus are energetic, bold, and independent.
Another temperament trait of this breed is dramatic. If things don’t go their way, they could bark a lot. Also, Shiba Inus are excellent ninja warriors and escape artists due to their speed and agility. If you get one of these dogs, you will undoubtedly need an escape-proof yard at home.
They are curious canines with a robust sense of humor and often make people laugh with their creative mischief. However, cream Shibas can be stubborn and destructive if not trained early and correctly.
Exercise
If you have an energetic and fun cream Shiba Inu, they will benefit from daily exercise, whether it’s active games, long walks, or running around in a fenced area. Luckily, their background as hunters makes these pups great hiking companions.
Shibas’ tendency to chase small animals, on the other hand, is a disadvantage of being hunters. They should always be on a leash when in public areas, and of course, they should attend a leash training class before they can consistently go for walks.
Whether you adopt a cream Shiba Inu puppy that is male or female, it’s crucial to teach and socialize them early on with positive reinforcement to help them learn good manners and get used to being around people and other animals.
Shibas are very intelligent! They can be trained at home quickly (but may need obedience classes such as puppy kindergarten first to lay a solid foundation for grasping good manners). A wonderful dog that makes you proud will be yours if you raise this breed properly.
Shedding and grooming
Cream Shiba Inus have a thick double coat and shed a lot. They shed all year round but most heavily in the spring and fall. If you want to keep shedding under control and save your furniture, you should brush your furry friends frequently, at least once a week.
In addition, you also need to bathe them when they get dirty, trim their long nails, clean their ears regularly, and brush their teeth twice or three times a week. That’s all!
Feeding and diet
Do you want to keep your dog happy and healthy so they can spend more quality time with you? If so, you must feed them a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet (no fluff) and strictly monitor their food portions to prevent obesity, which exacerbates many health conditions.
Are cream Shiba Inus good family dogs?
Cream Shiba Inus are good family dogs if they are properly socialized and trained. Intelligent, loyal, and alert, Shibas will warn their owners with a sharp bark if anything seems amiss, so they are excellent watchdogs.
The good news for parents of children who are fans of this dog breed is that these pups can grow very fond of children if socialized early. They can also get along well with cats and other dogs if introduced during puppyhood.
Suitable climate for cream Shiba Inus
Cream Shiba Inus are very good at handling cold weather and can tolerate warmer temperatures as well.
How much is a cream Shiba Inu?
Prices vary widely depending on pedigree and many other aspects, but in general, a cream Shiba Inu puppy from a reputable breeder can cost between $1,400 and $3,500. For example, if the puppy comes from a champion line, you will undoubtedly have to spend more.
How do you get a cream Shiba Inu?
You can get a cream Shiba Inu from one of these three primary sources: professional breeders, accidental breeders, and animal shelters or rescue centers.
Cream Shiba Inu names
With such a unique look and personality, it can be difficult for Shiba’s parents to come up with the perfect name for their dog. But you don’t have to worry about it because you’re reading this article, and we’ve gathered a list of the top Shiba Inu names for you to consider:
- Aki (brightness)
- Choco (chocolate)
- Kenzo (the wise one)
- Maru (round)
- Pochi (spot)
- Sakura (cherry blossoms)
- Sora (sky)
- Taro (the elder son)
- Yuki (good fortune)
- Dai (great, large)
- Riko (child of truth)
- Mochi (a sweet rice cake)
Top picks for the Shiba Inu
1. BEST FRESH DOG FOOD
We Like: The Farmer’s Dog – Made of human-grade meat and veggies and customized to your dog’s individual needs. Get 50% off your first order of The Farmer’s Dog.
2. BEST DOG TREATS
We Like: Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Training Dog Treats – One of the best-selling dog treats.
3. BEST CHEW TOY
We Like: KONG Classic – Great toy for energetic Shiba Inus.
For a list of all the supplies you need for your new dog, check out this Minimal Puppy Checklist to get all the right things to ensure a successful adoption process.
