The Shiba Inu originated in Japan around 1000 BC, making it a grand old breed. It was first used for hunting small game, and to trail larger game such as dear, boar and bear. Similar in style to the much larger Akita, its name translates from the Japanese as "small dog." Until 1920, the Shiba Inus were considered one breed, the "Japanese Dog" and were divided according to size. Now the Shiba Inus have separate registration.

Appearance
The Shiba Inu's frame is compact, with well-developed muscles. There is a distinct difference between males and females. The males have a masculine and robust body structure, while the females are more refined and feminine. The height to length ratio in males is 10 to 11. Females are slightly longer. The Shiba Inus 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.

Character
The Shiba Inu has a good nature as well as a spirited boldness and feeling of alertness. They have keen, alert senses, and are agile and athletic, able to move quickly with nimble, elastic steps. The Shiba Inu can live outdoors in temperate or cool climates, given warm shelter, but it does best when allowed to divide its time between inside and out.
 

Temperament
The Shiba Inu is an independent and strong-willed dog breed who requires consistent training. Affectionate and loyal to its owners, the Shiba Inu can be initially reserved with strangers. The Shiba Inu may not do well with cats and other small pets.

Shiba Inus are generally 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.

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 surprisingly 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 Shiba Inu is the so-called "Shiba scream". When sufficiently provoked or unhappy, the Shiba Inu will produce a loud, high pitched scream often likened to "a tortured woman or child".

Exercise/Training
The Shiba Inu needs a daily workout, either in the form of a vigorous game in the yard, a long walk or a good run in a safe area. Playing and obedience are very good types of mental exercise. 20 minutes obedience and playing with your Shiba Inu will be more useful for the dogs exercise then an hour walk on the leash can provide.

Color
Shiba Inus 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 Shiba Inus have protested that the urajiro markings can be seen, but it has not yet been confirmed for the show ring.

Grooming
The double coat of the Shiba Inu needs brushing one or two times weekly, more when shedding. A good nutrition and regular brushing keeps the proper coat shine and the skin healthy. Bathing doesn’t harm the coat of the Shiba Inu as long as you use a good quality shampoo that doesn't dry the skin and coat and is formulated for a canine coat. The ears of the Shiba Inu should be kept clean and regularly inspected as well.

Any breed described as "good with children", the dog must be accustomed to children. Any dog that is not well socialized with children will not behave predictably around them. As with all dogs, they should never be left alone with young children.