Weight: 18 - 25 lbs.

Height: 13.5 - 16.5 inches

Colors: Red, salt and pepper, black, black and tan or white.

Coat: Harsh, straight.

Temperment: Shiba-Inus are independent, industrious, strong-willed

With Children: Yes, if raised with them.

With Pets: Same sex dog aggression is common.

Watch-dog: High, territorial

Guard-dog: High

Care and Training: Brush Shiba-Inus with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary as they have a natural water-proof coat. Needs plenty of exercise by daily walks or space to run. Training should be understanding, not harsh physical training methods. It is recommended that you take young Shibas to obedience classes for socialization and training and to prevent aggression towards other dogs.

Learning Rate: Medium, may display stubbornness at times.

Activity: High, abundant, but not hyperactive.

Living Environment: Shiba-Inus enjoy a family environment with a fenced yard. Can live outdoors or indoors in both hot and cold conditions, but prefers to be with their family.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, patella luxation, may retain puppy teeth.

Life Span: 13 - 16 Years

Litter Size: 2 - 3

Country of Origin: Japan

History: The oldest native dog of Japan the Shiba-Inu dates back to the third century B.C. when they were used as a hunting dog. They almost became extinct in 1952 due to an outbreak of distemper. Today they are growing in popularity ranking 58th by the AKC in 1998.

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