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The Shiba Inu, smallest of the natural Japanese breed of spitz dogs that includes the Akita, is gaining popularity in the United States. Learn more about this appealing breed at the following links:

Description   •   Temperment   •   Care & Training

Shiba Inu, noun. Japanese shiba-inu, from shiba 'brushwood' + inu 'dog'. 1982: any of a breed of small thick-coated agile dogs developed in Japan for hunting.

Spitz, noun. German, from spitz 'pointed', from Old High German spizzi; from the shape of its ears and muzzle. 1842: a member of any of several breeds of stocky, heavy-coated dogs with erect ears and furred tail carried over the back.

[Definitions adapted from Merriam-Webster]