The Shiba Inu is double coated, with the outer coat being stiff and straight and the undercoat soft and thick. Fur is short and even on the foxlike face, ears, and legs. Guard hairs stand off the body and are about 4 to 5 cm (1+1⁄2 to 2 in) long at the withers. The purpose of the guard hairs is to protect their underlying skin and to repel rain or snow. Tail hair is slightly longer and stands open in a brush. Their tails are a defining characteristic and make them stand apart from other dog breeds.

The cream color is considered a "major fault" by both the Japan Kennel Club and American Kennel Club. It should never be intentionally bred in a show dog, as the required markings known as "urajiro" (裏白) are not visible; "Urajiro" literally translates to "underside white". Conversely, a white (cream) coat is perfectly acceptable according to the British Kennel Club breed standard.

▶ BACKTAGGING.
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▶ FOURTHWALLING.
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▶ OFF-LIMITS.
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▶ TAG STYLE.
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▶ OTHER.
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▶ HUGGING.
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▶ ROMANCE.
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▶ DEATH.
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▶ PHYSICAL MANIPULATION.
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▶ MENTAL MANIPULATION.
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