Japan’s most iconic dog, the Shiba Inu is known for its adorable fox-like face, tan fur and curly tail. Inu means 'dog' in Japanese, while shiba is an archaic word for 'small.' 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.
Shiba Inu aren’t just beloved in Japan, either – they’ve proven popular around the world for their cute and cuddly features. But these dogs are much more than a pretty face. Here are some interesting facts and history that you might not know about the Shiba Inu.
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