The breed of dog that almost went extinct during World War II is the Shiba Inu. This small and charming Japanese breed faced a perilous fate during one of the most devastating events in human history.
During the war, Shiba Inus were not only the victims of bombings and destruction but also fell prey to the deadly distemper virus. This highly contagious canine viral infection took a heavy toll on the already vulnerable population of Shiba Inus. The combination of bombings and the rampant spread of distemper caused a significant decline in their numbers.
The Shiba Inu’s situation was dire, and the breed was on the brink of extinction. However, after the war, dedicated individuals recognized the importance of preserving this unique and cherished breed. Breeding programs were initiated to save the Shiba Inu from disappearing altogether.
These breeding programs were not without challenges. The limited number of surviving Shiba Inus made it difficult to find genetically diverse individuals to breed. Inbreeding was a concern, as it could lead to health problems and further jeopardize the breed’s chances of survival. The breeders had to carefully select healthy and genetically diverse Shiba Inus to ensure the long-term viability of the breed.
Through the persistence and dedication of these breeders, the Shiba Inu slowly began to bounce back. Their efforts were not in vain, as the breed gradually regained its numbers and started to thrive once again. Today, the Shiba Inu is considered one of Japan’s national treasures and is loved by dog enthusiasts worldwide.
Reflecting on the near-extinction of the Shiba Inu during World War II, it is a stark reminder of the devastating impact that war and disease can have on both human and animal populations. The loss of any species, whether large or small, is a loss to the biodiversity and cultural heritage of our world.
As an expert in this field, it is heartening to see how dedicated individuals and breeding programs can make a significant difference in the preservation of endangered breeds. The story of the Shiba Inu serves as a testament to the resilience of both the breed and the people who worked tirelessly to save it.
The Shiba Inu is the dog breed that almost went extinct during World War II. The combined effects of bombings and the distemper virus decimated their population. However, through post-war breeding programs and the dedication of passionate individuals, the Shiba Inu made a remarkable recovery and is now thriving once again.