What is a teacup Shiba Inu?

A teacup Shiba Inu, also called a Mame Shiba Inu, is a small-sized breed of Japanese dog. In Japanese, "mame" means "bean" or "tiny like a bean," and "inu" means "dog". Therefore, the name "Mame Shiba Inu" literally means "tiny Shiba dog."

Mame Shiba Inus typically are less than 35 centimeters tall and weigh significantly less than their larger Shiba Inu relatives. A normal-sized Shiba can weigh between 17 and 25 pounds. Mame Shiba Inus come in a variety of colors, such as tan, red, red sesame, cream and black; however, red is the most prominent color found in the breed. The personality of Mame Shiba Inus can be described as loyal but mischievous.