Shiba Inu, Sheba Inu, Shibu Inu - What's That?!
He looks just like a fox!
Yes you have probably seen this foxy little dog walking his little walk around your neighborhood. Or perhaps you saw him at the dog park strutting his stuff… or was it at the dog show?
These little foxes are striking, they act like they are on show all of the time, and they stand out wherever they go.
What are they? Sounds like Sheba Inu, Shibu Inu, Shiba Enu … the one and only Shiba Inu.
Sounds like Sheba Inu, Shibu Inu, Shiba Enu ... the one and only Shiba Inu.
Sheba Inu, Shiba Inu, Shibu Inu
The Shiba Inu is a Japanese dog breed. There are six original, distinct breeds of dog from Japan, and the Shiba Inu is the smallest one.
The largest in the group is the Akita. There aren’t many red and white Akitas in the United States, but the few that I have seen look just like larger versions of the red Shiba Inu. And not in the Schwarzenegger-DeVito sort of way.
Between the Akita Inu and the Shiba Inu are the medium sized Japanese dog breeds, including the Shikoku, Kai, Ainu, and Kishu. These six Japanese dog breeds have very similar appearance and temperaments. They all belong to the Spitz dog family.
Sheba Inu, Shiba Inu, Shibu Inu. It's a wild thang!
Sheba Inu, Shiba Inu, Shibu Inu – What Does It Mean?
The Kanji or Japanese character for ‘dog’ can be pronounced as ‘Inu’ or ‘Ken’. Therefore, Shiba Inu simply means Shiba dog. Sometimes you will also hear the Shiba dog being referred to as Shiba Ken.
The exact interpretation of ‘Shiba’ is less clear. It could either mean ‘red shrub’ for the red bushes that grow in the region where Shibas come from or it could mean ’small’.
The Shiba Inu is certainly a cheeky little red shrub, so both interpretations work out well.
Sheba Inu, Shiba Inu, Shibu Inu - What Does It Truly Mean?
Shiba Inu of all colors have the same fiery red personality.
Sheba Inu, Shiba Inu, Shibu Inu – What Does It Truly Mean?
I know that discussions of red shrubs are truly riveting, but you probably want to move on to what it truly means to be Sheba, or Shiba, am I right?
Well, you know what they say about red-heads and their fiery temper?
The same is also true of the red-headed Shiba Inu. You may think that you can get around this thorny issue by getting a Shiba Inu of another color, such as the red-sesame, black and tan, or cream colored versions, but the Shiba God is indeed one step ahead of you.
Shiba Inu of all colors have the same fiery red personality.
That is why they are also known as the ‘devil dog’, the ‘not for everyone dog’, and the ‘honey, why the hell did you get this thing?! dog’.
Indeed the Shiba Inu is not recommended for first time dog owners.
However, figuring I was smarter than everyone else, or mainly because of lack of research, I decided to get a Shiba Inu as my first dog anyway. It was not an easy first dog experience, but after over a year, Shiba Inu Sephy and I reached a somewhat peaceful state of cohabitation.
My little red shrub still has some thorns, but he is growing some beautiful flowers as well.
Shiba Inu Sephy - My cheeky, little red shrub.
Mame Shiba
Standard sized male Shiba Inus tend to range between 20-25 pounds, for an average weight of around 23 pounds. Female Shiba Inus are slightly smaller and have an average weight of 17 pounds. There are always outliers though.
My male Shiba Inu is a big boy and comes in at around 30 pounds. He is not an overweight Shiba, just big-boned.
Recently, some breeders in Japan and the United States have started breeding Mame Shibas, which are essentially smaller sized Shibas. ‘Mame’ means ‘bean’ in Japanese, so these are bean-sized Shibas.
Mame Shibas are not recognized by any of the kennel clubs in Japan or in the United States. As a result, the breeding of Mame Shibas is not regulated, and many of the breeders who sell Mame Shibas do not breed for health, or temperament.
Since the Shiba Inu is already a difficult dog breed to begin with, you want to make sure you get one with a good temperament. It is best to get a Shiba Inu from an accredited club breeder, who has to follow strict breeding guidelines.
Mame Shiba? Nah - just a Shiba Inu puppy.
Jomon Shiba
The Jomon period is the time in Japanese history from around 14,000 B.C. to 400 B.C. The Jomon inhabitants reared hunting dogs that were a big part of their culture.
Archaeological sites have uncovered well-preserved skeletons of the Jomon dogs, which show that they have prick ears and a sickle tail. Scientists believe these dogs to be the ancient ancestors of the Shiba Inu and the other five original Japanese dog breeds.
Some breeders in Japan have founded the Shibaho association to breed dogs with physical characteristics that conform to the Jomon dogs of old.
The Jomon Shiba is a more feral looking Shiba, with a narrower head, and larger teeth. True to their even more primitive roots, Jomon Shibas are more stubborn and less obedient than their domesticated Shiba brothers.
Given the already high level of stubbornness and willfulness in a regular Shiba Inu, it may be best to stay away from the Jomon Shiba.
Shiba Inu Sephy looking a lot like his Jomon ancestors in this foxy-shot.
Shiba Inu – Why Not?
Shiba Inu - Why Not?
The Shiba Inu is independent and aloof.
The Shiba Inu is a clown.
The Shiba Inu is a charmer.
The Shiba Inu is one of a kind.
Truthfully, there are many easier and friendlier dog breeds than the Shiba Inu.
The Shiba Inu is independent and aloof. If you want a lap dog who likes to cuddle with you, then the Shiba Inu is not for you.
The Shiba Inu is feisty and active. If you want a calm dog that just lies at the end of your bed and warms your feet, then the Shiba Inu is not for you.
The Shiba Inu is a dog rebel. If you want an obedient dog that follows your every command and lives to please you, then the Shiba Inu is not for you.
Why Do People Get Shiba Inus?
Yeah, they are a bit nuts; maybe more than a bit nuts, but once you get beneath that fiery red temper, you will find a rich and deep Shiba soul.
The Shiba Inu is a trickster. He likes to play tricks and he likes breaking rules. You will never be bored if you live with a Shiba Inu because he will always be up to something. Sometimes, it is even something good.
The Shiba Inu is a clown. He likes being the center of attention and he will do much to get to that coveted spot. What he does, will be original, funny, and very entertaining. In fact, Shiba Inus remind me of stand-up comedians. They can easily make others laugh with their crazy hi-jinks, but they have a very sensitive and fragile soul.
The Shiba Inu is a charmer. He can charm you when he wants to. Most of the time he may not want to, but when he does, look out! It is simply not possible to resist those deep dark eyes, that infectious grin, or that roguish charm.
The Shiba Inu is one of a kind. He is not like a regular dog. In fact, many people describe the Shiba Inu as a dog that is more like a cat.
If you want a dog that is a bit different, a dog that will challenge you and grow with you, a dog that will surprise you in both delightful and sometimes non-delightful ways, a trickster, a prankster, and a rogue, but sensitive, deep, and surprising – then the Shiba Inu is the dog for you.
He is like Han Solo and Indiana Jones, except with more fur and without the hat!
The Shiba Inu is like Han Solo and Indiana Jones, except with more fur and without the hat!
Getting a Shiba Inu
Only get a Shiba Inu puppy from an accredited breeder or from a Shiba Inu rescue.
Should you get a Shiba Inu puppy?
That would depend on your temperament, your lifestyle, and the amount of time you can devote to your new Shiba. The Shiba Inu is a challenging dog breed because he is extremely stubborn, dominant, and smart.
Shiba Inu training is a must, and it can be a very time consuming and frustrating process, especially in the beginning.
Patience and time are two key ingredients that you will need in abundance.
Shiba Inus are inside dogs, that need the company of their people. A Shiba Inu that is constantly left in his own company will become stressed, unhappy, destructive, and aggressive.
If you still want a Shiba Inu after all this – then get a puppy from an accredited breeder or from a Shiba Inu rescue.
Shiba Inu Sephy fell asleep during a hide-and-seek game.
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Wow – now I’m very envious!
I am a big fan of video games (mostly RPGs) and anime. Blizzard, I think, would be an awesome video game company to work for, although I hear that the people there work super crazy hours.
Good luck! Sounds like you are heading for much fun and excitement.
I had a few ideas, both involve Video Game Development. My original thought was to study in Japan, though I don’t know Japanese, so I’m thinking of studying at Digipen (which I hear is one of the best) then when I get a job in the field, oh lets say like Nintendo or Microsoft (I’m keeping my hopes high lol) then I see if I cant transfer to japan.
That sounds like a great idea! Let me know if you have any questions.
Also, best of luck with college. I am a bit envious of you – college is a fun time. What are you planning to study?
Thank you that was a very helpful answer. I think I will keep doing research for when I am ready to get a Shiba (maybe in a few yeas), and hopefully by that time I will be able to give my Shiba the time he/she needs.
Thanks again!
Hello Dillon,
It is great that you are doing so much research and thinking carefully about this.
As you already know, Shibas can be very difficult dogs and they need a lot of attention. I spent a lot of time with Sephy and did a lot of training with him but did not notice a big change until after over 1 year. Shiba Sephy just turned 3, and I noticed another big mellowing out around this time. I think it takes time for a Shiba to learn, bond, and mature.
Personally, I think you can enjoy the college experience a lot more without having to worry about a dog at the same time. I had a great time in college, and don’t think I would have had the same types of freedoms and experiences if I had to be responsible for a dog. A dog can place a lot of constraints on your time and schedule, and they can also be very expensive with their yearly shots, teeth cleaning, and sometimes unexpected vet visits.
There will be plenty of time to get a Shiba later on, but now is the time to enjoy college, enjoy new people, and enjoy new experiences. This time in college only comes around once
HI, I think shiba are are really cute and for the past couple weeks I am really considering getting one. I have contacted most of the local kennels for their opinion and now I am asking yours.
Here is the thing, I am a college student. I would assume by me saying this your first reaction is no, but I have read on many sites, including yours, so I know what I will be getting into. I guess the hardest part would be when I go to school, though If I get one over the summer and push and get as much training in before school starts is there some chance that it will work out?
When I first saw them I wanted one (based on looks), then I thought, that If I got one he/she will force me to play and even get out side, be a better person, and even keeping me away from things that I shouldn’t be doing (i.e. video games).
Even though everyone says shiba are hard to train, I have seen videos on youtube of shibas even off collar! Im going to be very optimistic and shoot for this (thought they are expensive so I most likely not do this).
I study traditional martial arts so I know patients and all of that. PLEASE if you still think this would be a bad Idea let me know I want an honest answer, even If that means I end up not getting one
Thank you very much!
Hello Toni, Yeah Shibas are great fun to live with. Never a dull moment because they have so much personality and are always doing something new and unexpected.
I always tell people – depends on what you want from your dog. If you want an obedient type, then don’t get a Shiba! lol
PARTY ON, DUDES!!!
SHIBA’S ROCK HARD CORE MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have always wanted a shiba inu since i was about 5 years old. I am 11, going on 12, would absoulutly recommend the shiba inu. They’re lovable, cute, and a bit stubburn, but you gotta love them, right?
Yoshi sounds wonderful!
I think the great thing about Shibas is that they are always doing unexpected crazy things to surprise you. Never a dull moment – lol.
“the only way to do it is by playing and rewarding him, this is not a dog to be harsh with otherwise he will lose confidence in you”
I totally agree with you on this. I really lost a lot of my Shiba’s trust initially when I was using aversive training. His behavior improved significantly once I switched to reward training and everyone is having a much better time
Yoshi is a lucky Shiba to have found you.
I must visit Portugal someday. Such a beautiful country.
Hi there! I’m from Europe (Portugal) and I have a Shiba Inu (and 2 cat’s
, he’s name is Yoshi and he’s 6 months old, until now we are getting along really good, he’s really crazy and… I love it! I was able to teach him to sit, lay down, stay and only to eat in my comand (after lot’s of reading in the internet from blogs like yours so thanks for it!) and the only way to do it is by playing and rewarding him, this is not a dog to be harsh with otherwise he will lose confidence in you. In Europe this is not a common breed so everyone is always asking if it’s a real Fox and most of the people never heard of Shiba’s.
Hello Shiba Owner,
Yeah I love Shibas of all colors. Sephy, my Shiba is red in color so those are the pictures that I have. Would love to see your Shiba, so send us a link to some pictures.
And it is great that you are socializing your Shiba to other dogs. My Shiba really loves playful, younger dogs. The more dominant dogs though generally don’t get along well with him
I own a shiba & shes beutiful. shes black & tan…. u mite wanna put up some more pics of tht color. i luv her 2 death & shes sometimes ok w/ other dogs. shs kind iffy. but we inspired my friend 2 get 1 2. htey luv her!
Hi Missy,
You are so right! Shibas really *do* grow on you. I think mine has me pretty well-trained now
My Shiba is also iffy with other dogs. He really does not like new dogs coming up to him and sniffing his butt. He prefers to get to know them first before he will allow butt sniffing. I suppose I can understand that – I wouldn’t want some stranger sniffing my butt either until I have gotten to know them better – lol.
I’ve had 2 sheba’s for about 7 years now, they were inherited & not my 1st choice. They’ve grown to be the most loving wonderful family dogs! From standofish snobs to loving kids attention!! though still dog aggressive we can’t imagine our home w/out them!!
Thanks chicamom – Beauty always has its price
lol frogdropping – Nah stay away from em – they are no good. Plus I don’t think Shiba Inu will get along with Kevin. Both want to be Ruler of the Universe
RVilleneuve – “so beautiful and so impossible” – that pretty much sums up a Shiba Inu
rchicaferro – LOL! Sadly, it is true
We are both very high maintenance, but I haven’t caused any bite wounds … yet!
lol Janetta – knee deep in dog poop – story of my life
Things are actually going well. Almost done – then I just have to fix all the other non-dog ones, my squidoo articles, and my website. Gotta eke out that extra 10 cents of AdSense cash! 
Hey Shiba! As always, loved looking at the pics of pretty puppy Sephy!! Great job on the hub– how are the reconstructions going?? Still knee deep in dog hubs ?? lol
Great Hub! And, my bet is that Shiba Inu has the same personality as its mom, Shibashake!
Yes, I had one of these dogs. He was so beautiful and so impossible. He even chewed his way through a crate.
Shiba – I’d love one. I like challenging animals. Even my horses have been harder work than they had busines being … I spent more time on the floor than actually on their backs.
Probably my biggest challenge, pet-wise, was my Shepherd. He took hours and hours, months and months – of dedication. But he was worth every second. And I’d do it all again.
Great article Shiba
Nice hub, the pictures are awesome, what a beautiful dog.
Good to see you Rochelle. Actually I started off with very little patience, so my Shiba Inu has really helped me grow quite a lot as a person
lol – Good choice Gypsy. I am not sure if I will get another Shiba Inu. I love my Siberian Husky and am very interested in trying out other dog breeds. Shiba Inus really do kindda grow on you though
I think I’ll stick with my Lab. Interesting hub, thanks
I can see why you are enthralled with this attractive breed. You obviously must have a lot of patience and energy. Beautiful dog.