History
 The Shiba has been a native breed to Japan since the primitive ages. The word "Shiba" originally refers to something "small", and "Inu" means dog -"small dog". Originally these dogs were used to hunt birds and small animals in the mountains of Japan. They are an alert, sturdy dog, capable of handling rough terrain.

Originally, there were slight differences in the types according to the areas where they were raised. As dogs were imported from England during the period of 1868-1912, hunting became a sport in Japan and cross breeding of the Shiba was prevalent. In the period of 1912-1926 pure Shibas became exceedingly scarce save for small numbers isolated in remote areas of the country. The Japanese became concerned with the declining number of pure Shibas and the task of preserving the pure strains began seriously. What had once been known as the pure Japanese native dog, had almost disappeared.

A movement to preserve Japan's 6 native breeds of dog emerged and in 1928 the Nippo organisation was founded, headed by Dr Saito. The first Nippo show in 1932 had an entry of forty Japanese native dogs, 15 of which were Shibas. The breed standard was finally unified in 1934 and in 1936 the Shiba was designated as a Natural Monument. Structured breeding then took place, using the few pure Shibas of acceptable quality left in the country, to produce the superior breed known today.

In 1988 the Nippo Society celebrated its 60th Anniversary with 16000 members and of the 60000 dogs registered, approximately 50000 were Shibas. The Shiba is the most popular small dog in Japan today with its small size and clean habits making it ideally suited to modern Japan, where space is limited.

Appearance & Temperament
The Shibas are small dogs, ranging approximately between 14 and 16 inches (36-41cms) and weighing between 8-12kg. The correct colours are red, black and tan and red sesame (red with an overlay of black hair). Their temperament is a mixture of spitz, terrier and cat-like characteristics. Intelligent, active, playful and extremely loyal, Shibas are wonderful watchdogs and family pets. This compact, hardy dog is certainly not a "lap dog", yet loves attention.

For many years Shibas have been used in Japan as a hunting dog for small game and birds and consequently its nature is courageous, outgoing and alert.

They are attractive with their fox like expression, brush like tails and hooded ears. As a rule they do not bark without reason and make good guards. They are versatile dogs that can fit well into most homes, as they are energetic, bright, tough, independent, territorial and loyal. Some are loving, some are dominant, and some are shy. Their playful spirit and sense of fun will delight every member of the family.

Shibas are wonderful dogs, but they are unique and can be a very challenging breed to care for. They are very intelligent, but sometimes stubborn. Shiba's are generally born thinking they are No.1 and as an owner you may be confronted with the challenge of asserting your authority over the puppy, making it very clear that you are the leader of the pack. Puppy socialisation is essential, and training highly recommended. Shiba's are independent dogs that will bond with their owners but may be initially aloof towards strangers. The Shiba is a big dog in a little package and is very people friendly. While the occasional Shiba can display aggression towards other dogs, this can be minimised with puppy socialisation and training from 8 weeks of age.

Turning a deaf ear
Great care needs to be taken when letting a Shiba run off the lead. Once off and running, many Shibas 'turn a deaf ear' and can be very hard to catch.

In most cases Shibas cannot be trusted off the lead unless you are in a fenced or totally traffic free area. Shibas generally don't stick close to you and will run ahead, chasing whatever they see. We advise prospective owners that, as a rule, Shibas are not an off the lead dog. Although some people are lucky enough to have a Shiba who will listen to commands off the lead, most of the time it is a good idea to work with your Shiba on the lead unless you are in a fenced area.

Yard & Exercise 
A Shiba must have a securely fenced yard. It's recommended that fences be least six feet high as they can be quite the escape artists and are capable of cat-like leaps.

Although Shibas are energetic and fast, as long as they get regular exercise, they don't require a large yard. They are as comfortable indoors as out, and because of their "cat-like" cleanliness are ideal companions indoors or in a small yard.

Coat & General Health
Care of Shibas is a simple matter. They are naturally clean and have little or no "doggy odour". They have a double coat consisting of a thick undercoat and an outer coat made up of wiry guard hairs. Their short coat requires minimal attention with occasional brushing and bathing being all that's required except when they moult. At this time- usually twice a year- regular brushing is required. Shibas are not prone to any particular illnesses or problems and, in fact, one of their hallmarks is their hardy disposition and ability to tolerate many kinds of lifestyle, climate and conditions.

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