Shiba Inu

Newborn shiba inu puppies have dark coats and look like raccoons or fox cubs, but as they grow older, their color lightens; the darker the initial clors are, the more beautiful red they will turn. After about 1 month, their ears stand and their tails become firm. Also, their character settles early, so training should begin at about 3 months.

The most common native breed in Japan, the archetypal shiba inu, a hound dog developed to chase birds and small animals, is well suited for the country’s climate. Shiba derives from either the Japanese term for brushwood, the bark of which their coat resembles in color, or an archaic word meaning “a small thing.” (Inu means “dog”.)

This breed is distinguished by its curled or sickle tail and triangular pricked ears. These active, intelligent, brave, simple, and noble dogs, designated as a natural treasure in Japan in 1937, require plenty of exercise.

Origin: Japan
Size: (male) Height 15-17 inches; weight about 20 pounds
(female) Height 14-15 inches; weight about 18 pounds
Coat: Straight and hard; undercoat is soft and dense. Coat colors come in red, black peppering, red peppering, black, and liver; white markings on lower muzzle.