| Country of origin: | Japan |
| Registries: | AKC, UKC, CKC |
| Occupation: | Hunting, companion |
| Size: | 8–10kg (18–22lb), 35–40cm (14–16in) |
| Longevity: | 14 to 16 years |
| Exercise: | Moderate |
| Training: | Challenge |
| Grooming: | Easy; sheds |
| Colors: | Variety of colours |
This typically spitz-type dog is the smallest and the most popular of Japan’s indigenous breeds. Dogs have existed in Japan for over 2,500 years, and the strong, graceful Shiba Inu has been used for hunting in the Sanin region, at the western tip of Honshu island, for centuries. The breed almost became extinct during the latter phase of World War II, but today numbers are stable in Japan and becoming more widespread in Europe, Australia, and North America. While they are relaxed with children and other dogs, these are independent, agile, and robust individuals, best suited to an experienced owner. They seldom bark, preferring to shriek in an extraordinary manner, but they make good guard dogs.