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History
The Shiba Inu originated in Japan as a hunting dog in approximately the 3rd century BC. They were primarily used to hunt small game and flush birds out of brush. Archaeologists uncovered shell-mounds with small dog bones left by the Jomonjin (the countries first immigrants) which is used as evidence that the Shiba Inu are descendents of dog breeds first introduced to Japan in 7000 BC with this group of people. Shiba is often translated as "small" or "brushwood" in English while "inu" means dog and more fancifully gives the Shiba Inu the title of "little brushwood dog" which complements its use as a small game hunting dog as well as the fact that it is the smallest of six original Japanese dog breeds. During World War II the Shiba Inu almost went extinct but efforts to revive the breed have made it one of the more popular dog breeds owned within Japan.

Appearance
The size of the Shiba Inu varies from approximately 13 inches to 17 inches tall and 17 to 25 pounds in weight. The Shiba Inu has two fur coats, a longer, stiffer coat and a shorter, softer coat. They are commonly white, cream, tan, sable, or black in coloring. Their ears are triangular shaped and stand up. Their tales appear fluffy and curl up over their body. Their feet have soft pads and are rather catlike in appearance. The Shiba Inu's well proportioned body is very firm and has a muscular appearance.

Personality and Temperament
Most Shiba Inu's are very trainable and easily housebroken. They are loyal, kind, and very clean, however, they can also be very independent. Shiba Inu's will try their best to keep themselves clean, much like a cat. It is ideal to not have smaller dogs and/or other small pets as well as a Shiba Inu because of the Shiba Inu's natural hunting instincts. They are often referred to as "bold" and commonly display aggressive behavior towards other dogs. They have also been known to be extremely possessive of their belongings and owners. They believe everything of the owners' is theirs and everything of theirs is also their owners'.

Suitability for Families
Their possessive personalities and bold independent demeanors can make them unsuitable for families with small children. However, with the proper training, care, attention and an early introduction into a social lifestyle, they can be suitable for families and small children.

Grooming
Due to their water resistant outer coat and their tendency toward cleanliness, the Shiba Inu does not need regular baths. These dogs are seasonal shedders and should be brushed regularly, especially during the summer, with a firm bristled brush.

Health
The Shiba Inu typically has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Generally the Shiba Inu does not need an excessive amount of vet visits, however they have been known to have joint and eye problems. They have been known to develop patellar luxation, which causes loose kneecaps, hip dysplasia, and glaucoma. As with other dog breeds, Shiba Inu's are susceptible to allergies, especially fleas. A Shiba Inu should be walked daily. They have excellent endurance so they can go on really long walks with their owner.

Living
This breed of dog is fine living in an apartment as long as they have regular walks. Shiba Inu's can be outside dogs however, they prefer being able to go inside to spend time with family and to be a part of the family. To be housebroken most Shiba Inu's just need to be taken outside after waking up from naps and after eating meals until they get the idea. As they do not like to be restrained they are a bit more difficult to leash train but it is a necessity because of their hunting instincts and independent nature. Like all other dogs, as puppies the Shiba Inu is prone to chewing on various objects within their reach.

The Shiba Inu is recognized by the American Kennel Club as a non-sporting breed.

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