Shiba Inu means “brushwood dog” in Japanese! That explains so much! This smallest of the Japanese native breeds was bred to hunt small wild game, boar, and bear in the dense underbrush of Japan’s mountainous regions. The same qualities that originally made him a great hunter make him a great companion and watchdog today. They are keen, nimble, alert, and independent. They tend to be aloof around strangers but full of devotion and affection for family and trusted friends. Shibas are adaptable to apartment life but need regular exercise since they are hunter at heart. They benefit greatly from obedience training and their thick coat requires regular brushing.
Shiba Inu Related Links:
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
National Shiba Club of America
Search AKC’s national clubs to find a specific AKC-recognized breed
Search AKC’s state specialty clubs to find a specific AKC-recognized breed in your state
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
