What is a Shiba Inu?

The Shiba Inu ( 柴犬, Japanese: [ɕiba inɯ]) is a breed of hunting dog from Japan. A small-to-medium breed, it is the smallest of the six original and distinct spitz breeds of dog native to Japan. A small, alert, and agile dog that copes very well with mountainous terrain and hiking trails, the Shiba Inu was originally bred for hunting.

What color is a black and Tan Shiba Inu?

Although the Urajiro markings of a black and tan dog are the same as for the other Shiba Inu colors, these pups also sport a very fetching, trademark white bow tie! Another recognized Shiba Inu color is black sesame.

Why does my Shiba Inu have a cream coat?

This is a genetic quirk of the Shiba Inu. The gene responsible is linked to the dog’s red coat color and always ensures that the coat shades to a lighter color on the belly of an adult dog. A cream coat is the result of two recessive “e” genes. Coat color genetics can be very detailed and complex.

What is a Shiba dog called?

Locals call them Shiba Inu or Shiba Ken, since the kanji can be read both ways, but often, you'll just hear them called Shiba. These Japanese native dogs have been around for hundreds of years and, despite being one of the country’s most commonly owned breeds, they’re still treated as special national treasures.