What a beautiful pair of Shiba Inus!

 You would never guess it but Rocky (on the left with the blue bandana) will be 14 years old this year! Briar, the girl on the right, is a bit younger but BOTH are red Shiba Inus.

Often referred to as catlike for their independent ways, Shiba Inus are a relatively rare breed in the United States. In Japan, where they originated, Shiba Inus are the most popular dog breed in the country.

According to the National Shiba Club of America, ancestors of the Shiba Inu are thought to have accompanied immigrants to Japan around 7000 B.C. 

In the 7th century AD, the Yamato Court created a "dog keeper's office" to maintain the native breeds of Japan. Interestingly, there were three varieties of Shibas, each named after the region where they originated.

So, Rocky and Briar come from a long line of dogs that were originally bred to flush birds and small game, and occasionally to hunt wild boar. 

Shiba Inus come in three colors.

• Red (like Rocky and Briar)
• Sesame
• Black & Tan