Shiba Inu

Spitz and Primitive types 👁 376 views Updated 2026-10-30

Japan's small, cat-like native dog—clean, confident, and famously independent.

Overview. The Shiba Inu is Japan's smallest native spitz, a clean, agile, and independent companion with a cat-like aloofness.

History & Origin

An ancient Japanese hunting dog for small game and birds, it is the most popular companion dog in Japan today.

Appearance & Coat

Compact and well-balanced, with a stiff double coat in red, black-and-tan, sesame, or cream and a curled tail.

Temperament

Confident, alert, and aloof with strangers, it is clean and spirited but strong-willed.

Care & Exercise

Needs exercise and moderate grooming; secure fencing for its wanderlust.

FCI Recognition

Recognized by the FCI in Group 5 (Spitz and Primitive types).

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