Shiba Inu - ชิบะ อินุ (The Firewood Dog)

Shiba Inu - ชิบะ อินุ

The Shiba Inu, an ancient Japanese breed, has transitioned from hunting small and large game to becoming one of Japan's most beloved companion animals. Introduced to America only 60 years ago, these good-natured and compact dogs are often described as having cat-like qualities.

Classified as a "basal" breed, Shibas predate most modern 19th-century breeds, with origins tracing back to 7,000 B.C. Archaeological evidence, including remains found in ancient Jomon-era sites (14,000 B.C.), suggests their long history in the Japanese archipelago.

Before World War II, three Shiba Inu types existed: Mino, Sanin, and Shunshu. The breed nearly went extinct due to wartime devastation, with many dying in bombings or from the distemper epidemic that followed. Today, the Mino and Sanin types are extremely rare, and all surviving Shibas descend from these three original bloodlines.

Shiba Inu - ชิบะ อินุ (The Firewood Dog)

The name "Shiba Inu" translates to "firewood dog," likely referencing their fire-kindling coloration. These compact and muscular dogs have a double coat: a stiff, straight outer layer and a thick, soft, shedding undercoat. Males stand 14 to 16 inches tall at the withers, while females measure 13 to 15 inches. Their coat colors include black and tan, cream, red, and red sesame, typically with white markings.

Despite their fox-like appearance, Shibas are known for their aloofness, even with their owners. Their dominant personalities require firm boundaries, making them unsuitable for first-time dog owners.