Ever met a pooch that looked like an Akita, only much smaller? It was likely a shiba inu, which in Japanese means brushwood ("shiba") dog ("inu"). Quite fitting, given these pups were originally bred for hunting birds and small game in the thick underbrush of Japan's mountain regions.

History: During World War II, canine distemper and wartime turmoil nearly wiped out the shiba breed, but strategic postwar breeding preserved the bloodlines. Shibas have since become one of the most popular dogs in Japan and are gaining popularity in the United States.

Size: Most shibas are about 13 to16 inches tall and weigh between 15 and 25 pounds. Their pointy faces and sharp triangular ears give them a remarkably foxy look.

Coat: Shibas are considered short-haired dogs, but they aren't short on fur. They actually have a double coat that is waterproof and can range in color from black and tan to various shades of red, with patches of white fur peeking out on their cheeks, throat, bellies, and undersides. To maintain the "waterproofing" on their coats, they should be brushed often but bathed only occasionally.

Personality: Shibas are naturals at hunting and guarding, but they're also great companion dogs who are known to be very loyal and loving toward their owners. Because of their strong hunting instincts, it's wise to keep these pups away from smaller household pets, like hamsters, guinea pigs, or birds.