Shiba Inu, breed of dog that originated in Japan some 2,300 years ago for small game and ground bird hunting. A muscular dog, it stands 13.5 to 16.5 inches (34 to 42 cm) tall at the shoulders and weighs 17 to 23 pounds (7.5 to 10.5 kg). The Shiba Inu is known for its confidence, perkiness, and triangularly set eyes. Its coat is short, plush, and straight, with a stiff outer coat, and may be white mixed with red, ginger, tan, or light black. The dog’s ears are medium-sized, triangular, and held erect, and its tail is plumed and tightly curled over its back. Shibas love the outdoors and cold weather. Although the breed faced extinction during World War II, its numbers have dramatically rebounded. The Shiba Inu is perhaps the most popular dog in Japan and was introduced in the United States in the 1950s. It is placed in the nonsporting group by the American Kennel Club.