Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu adult

Another member of the Spitz family, the Shiba Inu is the oldest and smallest native Japanese dog. His history reportedly goes back to the third century B.C. The Shiba Inu is used to hunt small game although in the past he was bred for hunting large game. Today, his fox-like cunning, and alert, watchful attitude make him an effective guardian of home and family.

The Shiba Inu's name means 'Little Dog', and this breed stands just 16 inches tall at the shoulder. He has a short, straight, waterproof double coat that comes in all colors, although the preferred colors are red, red sesame, and black and tan. With his all-weather coat, the Shiba can withstand a wide range of temperatures. Like all members of the Spitz family, the Shiba carries his tail curled up over his back. One unusual characteristic of this dog is his odd, yodel-like bark.

Shiba Inus have a confident, friendly, extroverted temperament that combined with his small size, have made him the most popular pet in Japan. Only recently seen outside his native country, the Shiba's popularity is on the rise. Loyal and strongly intuitive, he is a family dog who needs human companionship. This is not a dog to be left alone for long periods. Shibas do not tolerate the manhandling of very young children very well. They are best in a household with older children.

Perhaps no other dog looks more like a toy stuffed animal than the Shiba Inu. But beware! Small he may be, but the Shiba Inu has a large dog personality in a small dog body! He is fiery, independent, strong-willed, stubborn, and territorial. He needs a firm hand from a strong master. Training may be a challenge and should begin when he is a puppy. Early socialization will help curb same sex dog aggression.

With a high activity level, the energetic and agile Shiba Inu needs lots of exercise and should have a large, fenced yard.

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