30 Exotic Shiba Inu Names: Unique Japanese-Inspired Choices

Shiba Inus are unique dogs with fox-like looks and big personalities. These Japanese breeds need names that match their special traits. You might want a name that fits their fiery spirit or pays tribute to their homeland.

Picking a unique name for your Shiba Inu can make them stand out at the dog park. Mochi, Squat, and Miso are just a few fun options to think about. From Japanese words to food-inspired titles, you have many cool choices for your new furry friend.

1. Kuma

Kuma means “bear” in Japanese, making it a cute and fitting choice for your furry friend. This name works well for Shiba Inus with thick, fluffy coats that resemble a bear’s fur. 

2. Yoshi

Yoshi comes from Japanese culture and is often associated with the beloved character from Nintendo games. The name means “good luck” or “good fortune” in Japanese, making it a great choice if you want to bring positive energy to your pet.

3. Hiro

Hiro is short, easy to say, and has a strong sound that fits the breed’s bold personality. The name means “generous” or “tolerant” in Japanese, which matches well with the Shiba Inu’s loyal and patient nature.

4. Akira

Akira is a popular name choice for Shiba Inus. It means “bright” or “clear” in Japanese. This name fits well with the Shiba Inu’s alert and intelligent nature.

5. Kiko

Kiko has Japanese origins and carries a beautiful meaning. The name Kiko means “hope”, making it a fitting choice for your furry friend. It’s a name that embodies optimism and positivity.

6. Suki

Suki means “beloved” in Japanese, making it a perfect fit for your furry friend. This name reflects the strong bond you’ll form with your Shiba. It’s short, sweet, and easy to call out when you need your dog’s attention.

7. Mochi

Mochi refers to a Japanese rice cake treat that’s soft, chewy, and often filled with sweet flavors. This name suits Shiba Inu’s personality perfectly. Like the treat, your dog can be sweet and irresistible. The name Mochi also captures the breed’s Japanese heritage.

8. Nori

Nori means “seaweed” in Japanese and refers to the dried sheets of algae used in sushi. This name fits well with the Japanese origins of Shiba Inus.

9. Riku

Riku is a charming name for your Shiba Inu. It means “land” in Japanese, making it a fitting choice for this earth-loving breed.

10. Aiko

Aiko is a beautiful Japanese name that means “beloved child” or “little loved one.” It’s a perfect choice for your Shiba Inu, especially if you want to honor the breed’s Japanese heritage.

11. Haruki

Haruki has Japanese origins and carries a beautiful meaning. The name Haruki translates to shining sun in English. This makes it an excellent choice for a bright and spirited Shiba Inu.

12. Sora

Sora means “sky” in Japanese, giving your pup a name that’s both meaningful and easy to say. This name suits Shiba Inus well because of their alert and spirited nature. Like the vast sky, Shiba Inus are full of energy and always ready for adventure.

13. Takara

Takara is a beautiful Japanese name for your Shiba Inu. It means “treasure” in Japanese, which perfectly describes how you might feel about your furry friend.

14. Yuna

Yuna is a charming name choice for your female Shiba Inu. This Japanese name means “kindness” or “gentle.” Yuna’s soft sound matches the breed’s fox-like appearance and alert nature.

15. Tsubaki

Tsubaki is a beautiful Japanese name for your Shiba Inu. It means “camellia flower” in Japanese. This name carries elegance and grace, much like the Shiba Inu breed itself. 

16. Mitsuko

Mitsuko has Japanese origins and carries a lovely meaning. The name Mitsuko translates to “child of light”. It could be perfect for a Shiba Inu with a bright personality or light-colored fur.

17. Kazuki

Kazuki is a Japanese name that means ‘harmony and happiness’, reflecting the joy your furry friend brings to your life. This breed is known for its independent nature, so a name that promotes harmony is fitting.

18. Natsu

Natsu means “summer” in Japanese, making it perfect for a pup born during the warm season. Your Shiba Inu named Natsu will bring to mind sunny days and warm breezes.

19. Yuki

Yuki means “snow” in Japanese, making it perfect for a white or cream-colored Shiba. This name can reflect your Shiba’s cool and calm demeanor, much like freshly fallen snow.

20. Ren

Ren is a short but powerful name for your Shiba Inu. It has Japanese origins and means “lotus” or “love.” This name fits well with the Shiba Inu’s Japanese heritage. 

21. Kai

Kai is a great name choice for your Shiba Inu. This short, punchy name has Welsh origins meaning “keeper of the keys”. It fits well with the Shiba’s alert and watchful nature. The name Kai also has Japanese roots, where it can mean “ocean” or “shell.”

22. Sakura

Sakura means “cherry blossom” in Japanese and represents the delicate pink flowers that bloom in spring. This name is perfect for a female Shiba with a gentle personality. It’s also great for dogs with light-colored fur, especially those with a pinkish tint.

23. Hana

Hana is a beautiful name for your Shiba Inu. It means “flower” in Japanese, making it a perfect choice for a female pup with a blooming personality.

24. Isamu

Isamu is a great name for your Shiba Inu. It’s a Japanese name that means “courage” or “bravery.” This name fits well with Shiba Inu’s brave and confident personality.

25. Daiki

Daiki means “great nobility” or “great tree.” This name fits well with the Shiba’s proud and confident nature.

26. Asuka

Asuka is a captivating name for your Shiba Inu. It has Japanese origins and carries a rich cultural significance. The name Asuka refers to a significant period in Japanese history because this era was marked by important cultural and political developments.

27. Kotaro

Kotaro is a Japanese name that means “first son” or “eldest son.” It’s a strong choice that honors the breed’s heritage. The name Kotaro has a rich history in Japan. It’s been used for centuries and carries a sense of tradition.

28. Michiko

Michiko means “beautiful wise child,” which fits well with the Shiba’s intelligent and charming nature. This name combines “mi” meaning beautiful, “chi” meaning wisdom, and “ko” meaning child. It’s a great choice if you want a name that reflects your Shiba’s looks and smarts.

29. Osamu

Osamu is a Japanese name that means “discipline” or “study,” which fits well with the breed’s intelligent and trainable nature. Naming your dog Osamu can reflect your hopes for a well-behaved and smart companion.

30. Rei

Rei has Japanese origins, which fits well with this breed’s heritage. The name Rei means “bell” or “lovely” in Japanese. It can also be interpreted as “gratitude” or “thanks.”