A Brief Description of Movement

written by Debbie Meador

The Shiba is an athletic hunter, developed over thousands of years for strength, speed and agility. He should be able to cover ground effortlessly, expending as little energy as possible in pursuit of his prey.

This means he must have noticeable ability to extend in the forequarters and drive in the rear quarters in order to get from point A to point B without undue effort. This requires a minimum of adequate layback of shoulder angulation as well as a good reverse angle to the upper arm, with both being of approximately the same length. The rear should be of the same strength and balance in angle, with strong upper thighs and well let down hocks to produce the necessary forward propulsion (body proportion and balance being the key to locomotion). In addition, the skeletal structure must be overlaid with strong, flexible ligaments and muscling, as with any athlete (human or canine). A Shiba should be thought of as part gymnast and part runner, and build accordingly.

The Shiba should be “clean” coming and going, and resemble any good working animal, without unnecessary action in elbow, pastern, or hock. When looking straight on, its feet should fall underneath an imaginary middle line of its body, naturally converging toward the center point of gravity, and as the trot picks up in pace, actually single tracking (the most efficient form of transportation for four legged animals, as illustrated by the wolf in the new fallen snow). The quickest way to appraise this is with a glance to the topline, which should remain level and firm, without bouncing up and down with each step.

Deviations from the above should give one pause as to wonder if this Shiba could perform its function in the field or hills or brush. Shortness of stride, flipping pasterns, popping hocks — any common fault in movement — would put the offender in jeopardy of losing its prey, or losing its life to larger game.

Note: Simple exercises and explanations of movement can be found in Rachael Paige Elliot's DOG STEPS — more advanced study is recommended through the use of literature available such as CANINE ANATOMY AND LOCOMOTION. (these books may be ordered through the Shiba Inu-Vations Bookstore (removed from site, undergoing renovation), with all commissions going to support Shiba Rescue)

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