Shiba Inu

Type: Northern Breed; Origin of Japan

Height: 13.5 - 16.5 inches.

Weight: 18 - 25 lbs.

Coat: Harsh and straight.

Description: The Shiba-Inu, with its outgoing personality, convenient size, and good nature has made it the most common pet in Japan. Growing in popularity worldwide, it has only been in recent years that they have been seen out of their native land. Though they may be difficult to train, if they are handled with consistent firm training they will respond well. Shiba-Inus are not a dog for the faint-hearted as they are a large animal in a small body. Shiba-Inus are loyal and posses a good sense of what you are feeling. They need to have human interaction and should not be left alone in the back yard. They have unique vocal sounds that sometimes may sound like a "yodel". They will usually only bark when they have a reason. The Shiba Inu's appearance attracts many a potential owner who may not realize the implications of keeping this breed. They are smaller dogs, with often a red or orange tint of fur over a background of white. They can also be other colors, however, such as salt and pepper, black, or black and tan or black and white. They have harsh, medium length, and thick fur which gives them the added foxy look. They have been bred down specifically for slanted eyes, a foxy expression and deep red color. Shibas also have a tail which curls over the back in the general spitz-type fashion. Do not be lured only by the Shiba Inu's looks alone, but first consider his loving yet stubborn personality as well.

Special Needs: Fenced yard, leash, socialization and training.

Life Span: 13 - 16 years. This is a generally long-lived breed.