The primary distinctions between Mame Shiba and Shiba Inu lie in their size and facial features. Mame Shiba are significantly smaller than standard Shiba Inus, with an overall more petite stature. In their puppyhood, Mame Shiba tend to have rounder faces, while Shiba Inus sport a more angular, square-shaped face. Furthermore, the face of a Mame Shiba may appear longer compared to that of a standard Shiba Inu.
The Mame Shiba is an independent breed derived from the Shiba Inu. Essentially, it's the result of selectively breeding smaller, high-quality Shiba Inus over generations to stabilize the smaller size trait. The outcome is the charmingly petite Mame Shiba. Their smaller size makes them particularly popular as pets for people living in urban environments.
Differences Between Mame Shiba and Shiba Inu
1. Size
There's a considerable size difference between Mame Shiba and Shiba Inu. Mame Shiba are bred to be smaller, so they are noticeably more compact than Shiba Inus. Some Mame Shiba dogs are even half the height of a standard Shiba Inu. This is because Mame Shiba are specifically bred to be smaller, making them more suitable as companion pets.
2. Facial Features
Regarding appearance, Mame Shiba puppies have rounder heads compared to Shiba Inu puppies. Their foreheads are wider and flatter without the pronounced brow ridge seen in Shiba Inus. Compared to the sharper features of the Shiba Inu, the Mame Shiba has a more compact and three-dimensional face, along with fuller cheeks. Mame Shiba's eyes are larger and brighter, their ears are small, triangular, slightly forward-leaning, and upright. The inner ear edge is straight, while the outer ear line has a gentle curve.
3. Pedigree
In terms of official recognition, the Mame Shiba isn't recognized by the Japan Kennel Club. Only the Japan Kennel Club (KC) and the Japan Mame Shiba Association (JMAS) issue pedigree certificates for Mame Shiba. The key way to differentiate a Mame Shiba from a Shiba Inu is to confirm the presence of a KC or JMAS certificate. If the seller cannot provide these, then it is uncertain if the dog is indeed a Mame Shiba.