Shiba's are proud, loyal, stubborn, smart, clean, athletic, brave, and energetic. They are patient with children and will tolerate being hugged, dressed in doll clothes, and dragged around on a leash. They are brave and outgoing, but not fool-hardy or disobedient.

Shiba's are incredibly beautiful, with foxy expressions and brush – like tails and are just the right size for house or apartment dwelling. Shiba’s are not normally “chatterboxes”. They are excellent watchdogs, so a bark usually means someone is approaching. They are easy to care for, requiring only an occasional bath and brush to remove loose hair. Dirt just flakes off their thick coats. They are nice to cuddle and pet, with their furry coats and sunny dispositions, yet they are tough and strong enough to keep up with the most active members of you family.

Shiba's are natural show dogs and are smart enough to train in obedience. They are athletic, agile, and have not lost the hunting instinct for which they were originally bred. Shiba's are known for their loyalty and become very attached to their people. Most get along well with cats and other family dogs if introduced properly. They need to know that their people are the dominant pack members and must be socialized as puppies.

Shiba's are naturally clean animals, seldom requiring bathing and usually have no “doggy odor” or “dog breath” Because of their desire to keep themselves and their living areas clean, they are easy to housebreak. Like a cat they prefer to “do their business” in one spot. Shiba’s are a double-coated breed and shed semi-annually. Fortunately, the shedding process does not take long and can be hastened by bathing and combing. Shiba’s are unusually hardy and robust dogs that do not require the pampering and grooming that so many breeds do. Shiba's are versatile dogs that can fit well into most homes. Almost all Shiba's are enthusiastic, energetic, bright, tough, independent and territorial. Some are very loving, some are dominant, and some are shy. The Shiba's protective instinct makes him a useful watchdog. And his playful spirit and sense of fun will delight every member of the family.