The Royal Huntsman Has Spotted Something the Rest of the Party Missed
A faint, knowing smile plays across the face of this foxy red dog, as if he has just spotted a pheasant the rest of the hunting party missed. His fur glows in shades of ginger and cream, framing alert dark eyes and small triangular ears. He wears a forest green huntsman's coat with a high collar, heavy gold epaulettes, a green silk cravat and rows of gold fleur-de-lis and leafy embroidery down the front. A gold sword hilt peeks from his side. The dark, swirling background and crackled finish lend him the presence of a nobleman's trusted master of the hunt.
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese breed originally used for hunting small game in mountainous terrain, so a huntsman's role suits him nicely. Shibas are compact, quick and famously independent, with a cat-like habit of grooming themselves and a strong will of their own. They tend to be loyal to their families but reserved with strangers. Because they have a strong prey drive, many owners keep them leashed or in securely fenced areas. Their dense double coat sheds heavily a couple of times a year. Patient, reward-based training works best with this clever, sometimes stubborn breed.
With a coat this fine and an expression this self-satisfied, the royal huntsman has clearly already had a very successful morning. The hounds may follow, but he will always lead.
