How much do you know about Shiba Inus? What were they originally bred for? Why did they almost go extinct? Shiba’s are aesthetically pleasing, incredibly popular, and Japan's national treasure--but how much do you know about the history of this hunting dog?
Known for their fox-like features and tan fur, Shiba Inus have been around since the 3rd century BC but have nearly become extinct on two occasions–both in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. When Japan started importing Western dogs, cross-breeding led to a decline in pure Shiba Inus. And during WWII, bombings and food shortages also nearly wiped out these highly-sought after dogs.
After Elon Musk’s 2021 tweet about his Shiba, the breed became trendy and this leads to unethical high-volume breeding. Though Shiba Inus have gone viral, buyers need to realize that owning this dog isn’t a fad. In fact, it’s a serious responsibility that requires a 14-16 year commitment to a dog that is practically a 25 lb. wolf.
Host Tai Koga
Producer Stephanie Tangkilisan Joy Jihyun Jeong Alison Boya Sun
Associate Producer Manal Ahmed
Researcher and Writer Manal Ahmed
Additional Research Alison Boya Sun
Director of Photography Vinod Vijayasankaran
Editor Rendy Abi
Editor in Chief Keshia Hannam
Head of Production Stephanie Tangkilisan
Animator Fajar Alkan
Sound Mix David Alba
Graphic Design Samuel Kang Fitra Pratama Annie Zhao
Additional Archival Material Getty Images Tiktok/klarities Tiktok/Yuzutheshiba SHIBA INU LAND Exodus American Kennel Club National Purebred Dog Day Wikimedia Youtube/Alice KOREA TEACUP PUPPIES Youtube/Jonny Kimchee Japan Times Tiktok/Shiba_island Japan Wonder Travel Breeding Business The National WWII Museum Youtube/Shibe Lady and The Blues Reddit Super Shiba Crufts Theo the Sammy Insider Business Leo Fucarev
Additional Music Humans Win - Curious Chaotic Strings New Library Sounds - A New Day Media Music Group - Let The Expertn Explain
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