The Japanese have used the shiba inu for hunting small game for thousands of years . My shibas have also been also trained to hunt for the sole purpose of achieving an extreme workout .They will run until completely exhausted and seem to thrive on the opportunity to do what they have been bred for . This is an important aspect for prospective shiba owners as under that calm , relaxed shiba lies a thirst to hunt and given an opportunity they will take it .

Shibas are a very patient dog , waiting for hours on end with anticipation of making a catch. A smart shiba will be very successful on the hunt whilst others may not do so well . They have a tenancy to chase any small animal but will also challenge larger animals such as foxes which can sometimes be larger than them . This does not phase the shiba , it will not back down . They are a tough , hardy dog shooting through thorn bushes , climbing up trees , squeezing through holes , doing whatever it takes to make the hunt a success . I find that the dogs are in their element once on the chase and the workout they receive is second to none .