The Shiba Inu is an ancient dog breed from Japan, with a rich history spanning over 3,000 years. The Shiba Inu is believed to have originated in the Jomon period (10,000-300 BCE), where they were bred to hunt small game like rabbits and birds. “Shiba” means “brushwood” or “small shrub” in Japanese, likely referring to the breed’s ability to hunt in dense underbrush. “Inu” means “dog”. Shiba Inus were highly valued for their hunting skills, loyalty, and companionship. They were often kept by nobility and samurai families. Japan’s geographical isolation helped preserve the breed’s unique characteristics, as they developed independently from other breeds. After World War II, the breed’s population declined, but dedicated breeders worked to restore and standardize the Shiba Inu and this breed gained popularity worldwide. These dogs were originally bred to be working dogs, not just companions. Shiba Inus are known for their strong prey drive and hunting instincts. The breed’s distinctive fox-like appearance has led to their nickname, “the little fox dog”. Today, the Shiba Inu is a beloved breed, cherished for their intelligence, loyalty, and unique personality.