The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six original and distinct breeds of dog from Japan.
The Shiba Inu is a small, agile dog that copes very well with mountainous terrain, the Shiba Inu was originally bred for hunting. It is similar in appearance to the Akita, though much smaller in stature.
Inu is the Japanese word for dog, but the "Shiba Inu" prefix's origin are less clear. The word Shiba Inu usually refers to a type of red shrub. This leads some to believe that the Shiba Inu was named with this in mind, either because the dogs were used to hunt in wild shrubs, or because the most common colour of the Shiba Inu is a red colour similar to that of the shrubs. However, in old Japanese, the word Shiba Inu also had the meaning of "small", thus this might be a reference to the dog's small size. Therefore, the Shiba Inu is sometimes translated as "Little Brushwood Dog".
Appearance
The Shiba Inus range in height from 14.5 to 16.5 inches (37 to 42 cm) at the withers for males, and 13.5 to 15.5 inches (34 to 39 cm) for females, with males weighing approximately 23 lb (10 kg), and females approximately 17 lb (8 kg).
Shiba Inu have double coats, with a straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat that is shed two or three times a year, producing a surprising amount of fur considering the size of the dog. Shedding normally occurs at the beginning or end of each season.
Shiba Inu may be red, black and tan, or sesame (red with black-tipped hairs), with a cream, buff, or grey undercoat. They may also be creamy white or pinto, though this colour is not allowed in the show ring as the markings known as "urajiro" (literally "back white") are unable to be seen. Some have protested that the urajiro markings can be seen, but it has not yet been confirmed for the show ring.
Temperament
Shiba Inus are generally independent and intelligent dogs. They have a reputation for aloofness with strangers and other animals, and some owners struggle with obedience training, but like many dogs, socialization at a young age can greatly affect temperament. Traits such as independence and intelligence are often associated with ancient dog breeds, such as the Shiba Inu. Some Shiba Inus must always be on a leash, but with the proper upbringing, a Shiba Inu's loyalty will keep the dog with its owner for life.
From the Japanese breed standard:
The dog has a spirited boldness and are fiercely proud with a good nature and a feeling of artlessness. The Shiba Inu is able to move quickly with nimble, elastic steps.
The terms "spirited boldness", "good nature" and "artlessness" have subtle interpretations that have been the subject of much commentary.
The Shiba Inu is a fastidious breed and feels the need to maintain themselves in a clean state. They can often be seen licking their paws and legs much like a cat. They generally go out of their way to keep their coats clean, and while walking will avoid stepping in puddles, mud and dirt. Because of their fastidious nature, the Shiba Inu puppy is easy to housebreak and in many cases will housebreak themselves. Having their owner simply place them outside after meal times and naps is generally enough to teach the Shiba Inu the appropriate method of toileting. These two facts make this dog a popular breed to be purchased.
A distinguishing characteristic of the breed is the so-called "Shiba Inu scream". When sufficiently provoked or unhappy, the dog will produce a loud, high pitched scream often likened to "a tortured woman or child".