Hey there! You may know me from the vital Doge meme (my brother, the actual doge in the meme, Kabosu died in early 2024) and the growing cult love for dogs like me. The Shiba is more than a meme, though, but a breed of dog that's been around for thousands of years. 

My ancestors have been around the block —dating back to ancient Japan! Originally bred for hunting small game, including birds and rabbits, I’m often seen as a small but mighty companion. My ancestors were known for their agility and keen senses, making them excellent hunters in the mountainous regions of Japan. It's a similar history to the sighthounds and bloodhounds of England and the highlands, but I'm unique for one special reason: my unique personality.  

If you've seen the meme, you know it. I'm very independent, sassy and clever. You may think of my temperament like more of a cat than a dog. Sometimes, I can be a bit stubborn. If I’m not in the mood to listen, I might pretend I didn’t hear you! You don't need to clean my ears, I'm just busy! I'm very intelligent, as well, which probably contributes to my stubbornness and independence. It means I can train very well, but may not always show you what you've trained me. It's in there, though, and with good coaxing and good treats, we can see the benefit of our hard work. These are well-known traits of ours, but there are other things about me you don't see from the meme. 

I’m always ready for an adventure! Whether it’s a brisk walk or a playful romp in the yard, I love to stay active and keep my spirits high. Despite enjoying some solidarity, I’m known for my loyalty to my family. I form strong bonds and can be protective of my loved ones, making me a great family dog. I'm a great guard dog too, because I can be wary of strangers and may bark to alert you when someone is approaching. However, if that's not what you need, socialisation from a young age helps ease this behaviour, so I can feel more comfortable around new faces.

I'm sure I'm sounding great right now, and you're already jumping online to see where you can find me or one of my siblings, but wait! I have a lot of energy packed into my small frame! If I don't get enough exercise, I might find my own fun, which could involve digging or other mischief around the house. I need at least 60 minutes of moving my little body, jumping, running, playing and more. Despite my independence, I would love to do that with my family. In terms of my health, I’m not too high maintenance! I do enjoy a little pampering now and then. A simple brush once a week helps keep my coat looking fabulous. I also appreciate a nail trim and an occasional ear cleaning to stay fresh. While I'm not ridden with hereditary diseases or genetic pre-conditions, routine check-ups are essential. 

As well as vet check ups, a good diet that's got a good balance of proteins, fats and carbohydrates to keep up with my activity level is essential. Something like Bella and Boots' Signature Blend provides everything I need to live a long and happy life.

If you’re looking for a loyal, spirited companion who’s always up for an adventure, I might just be the perfect fit for you! I thrive in active households, whether it’s with young families or single individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. Keep my mind and body busy, and I’ll shower you with love, cuddles, and those irresistible puppy eyes. So, if you’re ready for the joy and excitement that comes with having a Shiba Inu, I can’t wait to meet you and start our adventure together!

If I'm not for you, that's okay. I hope we can meet sometime at the dog park and have fun together! And I'm sure I'll be seeing you on the memes!