Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are known for their fox-like appearance and small stature. They are alert, confident, and incredibly loyal.

Shiba Inu Breed overview

Shiba Inus are a small-to-medium-sized breed that are known for their affectionate, playful, and independent nature. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety, as well as consistent and patient training to manage their stubborn and strong-willed tendencies. Socialization and early training is important to prevent aggressive or anxious behavior towards strangers or other dogs. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily and requires regular grooming, and can be prone to certain genetic health issues. They are best suited to experienced dog owners who are willing to invest time and effort into their care and training.

Height:
13-17 inches
Weight:
17-23 lbs
Life expectancy:
12-16 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Shiba Inu

Training

Shiba Inus are known for their strong wills and independent nature, which can make training a challenge. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. It is important to start training early and be consistent with expectations. Socialization is also important to help them learn appropriate behavior around other dogs and people.

Exercise

Shiba Inus are an active breed that require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are highly intelligent and require plenty of opportunities to learn and explore. They do well with daily walks or hikes and enjoy playing games such as fetch and tug-of-war. They also do well with agility and obedience training.

Health

Shiba Inus are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of around 12-15 years. They are prone to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and allergies. They can also be prone to certain eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts. It is important to keep their teeth clean and their weight in check as they can be prone to dental issues and obesity.

Grooming

Shiba Inus have a thick double-layered coat that sheds heavily twice a year. Weekly brushing can help keep shedding under control. They do not require frequent baths but should be brushed and their nails trimmed regularly. It is important to clean their ears and teeth regularly to prevent any buildup or infections.

Nutrition

Shiba Inus require a high-quality, balanced diet to maintain their health. It is important to feed them a diet appropriate for their age and activity level. Obesity can be a problem in this breed, so portion control is important. They can also be prone to food allergies, so it is important to monitor their reactions to different foods.

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Shiba Inu Traits & Characteristics

The Shiba Inu is a small and compact breed with a muscular build. They have a broad head and a thick tail that curls over their back. Their coat is double-layered with a stiff, straight outer coat and a soft undercoat. According to the AKC breed standard, the coat should be clear, with well-defined markings. They are known for their agility and endurance, able to move quickly over rough terrain.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Shiba Inus are affectionate and independent dogs that are known for having a strong bond with their owners. They are not as demonstrative as some other breeds, but they do enjoy making physical contact with their families on their terms.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Shiba Inus can be good with children if they are raised together from a young age. However, they can be wary of strangers and may not tolerate rough play or tugging, so supervision is necessary. They have a playful and energetic nature that can make them good companions for active kids.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Shiba Inus can be selective about their dog friends and may not tolerate dominant or rough play from other canines. Socialization from a young age and careful introductions are necessary. As with any breed, individual temperament may vary.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Shiba Inus can be reserved with strangers and may require slow and gentle introductions. They have a natural suspicion towards unfamiliar people and may become defensive or aggressive if they feel threatened. Early socialization and positive experiences can help to mitigate this tendency.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Shiba Inus are known for their playful and lively nature, but they can also be independent and like to entertain themselves. They enjoy games of fetch, chasing and are particularly fond of puzzle toys or interactive games that engage their mental abilities.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Shiba Inus are naturally alert and vigilant, which can make them good watchdogs. They are quick to sound an alarm if they perceive a threat or if they sense something that is out of the ordinary. This trait can also make them easily excitable or anxious when exposed to new situations or environments.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Shiba Inus can be adaptable to new environments and situations as long as they are introduced gradually and with positive reinforcement. However, they can become stressed or anxious if subjected to sudden changes or if they are left alone for long periods of time.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Shiba Inus have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. They also shed moderately throughout the year, which can make them unsuitable for people with allergies or a preference for a clean home. Regular grooming can help to control shedding.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Shiba Inus have a clean and self-sufficient nature and do not require frequent bathing. However, their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and to distribute natural oils. They also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing to maintain overall health.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Shiba Inus are a dry-mouthed breed and do not drool excessively. This can make them a good choice for people who dislike drool-related messes or who want a clean and tidy home.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Shiba Inus are a small-to-medium-sized breed that typically weigh between 17 to 23 pounds and stand 13.5 to 16.5 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy and compact body that is well-proportioned with a broad face and erect ears. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Shiba Inus have a moderate to high energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental health. They do well in homes with access to a yard or with dedicated time for daily walks or other activities. Regular exercise can also help to minimize destructive or anxious behaviors.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Shiba Inus are an active breed that requires regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They do well with daily walks or runs, play sessions, and interactive puzzles. They may also enjoy agility or obedience training, as well as activities that channel their natural prey drive, such as lure coursing or fetch. Exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Shiba Inus were originally bred for hunting and are known for their strong prey drive, independence, and alertness. They can excel in a variety of working roles, such as search and rescue, therapy, agility, and obedience. However, they can also be stubborn and may require patient and consistent training to succeed.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Shiba Inus are natural hunters with a strong prey drive and good scenting abilities. They were originally bred to hunt small game, such as birds and rodents, and can still be used for this purpose today. They can also be trained for other hunting activities, such as tracking or scent work. However, their independence and stubbornness can make them more difficult to train than some other hunting breeds.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Shiba Inus have a high level of physical stamina and require regular exercise to maintain it. They enjoy running, playing, and engaging in other activities that require endurance. However, their mental energy can also be high, and they need a lot of mental stimulation and challenges to keep them mentally sharp and happy.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Shiba Inus are generally healthy and long-lived dogs, with a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are prone to certain genetic health issues, such as hip dysplasia or patellar luxation, so it's important to get them from reputable breeders who conduct health screenings. Regular vet checkups and a healthy diet can help to prevent or manage health issues.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Shiba Inus have a moderate to high metabolism and can become overweight or obese if they are overfed or underexercised. They should be fed a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Regular exercise, such as daily walks or playtime, can help to prevent obesity and other health issues.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Shiba Inus have a thick double coat that can provide insulation during cold weather, but they are not as tolerant of extreme cold as some other breeds. They can benefit from warm jackets, sweaters, and booties when exposed to very low temperatures. Caution should also be exercised during snow or ice walking because they can be prone to slipping and injuring themselves.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Shiba Inus can tolerate mild to moderate heat, but they are not well-suited to hot and humid environments. They can overheat quickly and are prone to heatstroke or sunburn. They should be provided with shade, cool water, and air conditioning during hot weather. Exercise should be kept to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Shiba Inus can adapt to apartment living as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. They can be energetic and noisy at times, so careful consideration should be given to neighbors and shared spaces. Regular walks, play sessions, and puzzle toys can help to prevent boredom and destructive behavior in small spaces.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Shiba Inus have a tendency to wander and explore their environment, which can make them prone to running away or getting lost. They have a high prey drive and may be easily distracted by small animals or interesting scents. Supervision and training can help to prevent escaping or roaming behaviors.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Shiba Inus can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement and may shut down or become anxious if subjected to harsh or punitive training methods. They respond better to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance. They can also be sensitive to changes in routine or environment and may require time to adjust.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Shiba Inus can adapt to being left alone for short periods of time as long as they are properly crate-trained and gradually desensitized to separation. However, they can become anxious or destructive if left alone for extended periods or if they feel abandoned. They do well with interactive toys and puzzles to help them cope with loneliness.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Shiba Inus are generally not excessive barkers, but they can be vocal when they want to communicate their needs or if they feel provoked. They can also become barky if they are bored, anxious or stressed. Early training and socialization can help to channel this tendency in a positive way.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Shiba Inus are intelligent and curious dogs that need mental stimulation and engagement to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They are good at problem-solving and can benefit from interactive games, trick training, and agility exercises. They also have a strong prey drive and may enjoy activities that channel this instinct, such as lure coursing or scent work.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Shiba Inus are not recommended for first-time or inexperienced dog owners because of their independent and strong-willed nature. They require consistent and patient training and socialization, as well as a strong and confident leader. They can be a good fit for experienced owners who are familiar with the breed's unique characteristics.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Shiba Inus have an independent and self-sufficient nature that can make them challenging to train. They are intelligent, but they can be stubborn and may require consistent and patient training methods. Positive reinforcement is often more effective than punishment or negative reinforcement.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Shiba Inus are affectionate and independent dogs that are known for having a strong bond with their owners. They are not as demonstrative as some other breeds, but they do enjoy making physical contact with their families on their terms.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Shiba Inus can be good with children if they are raised together from a young age. However, they can be wary of strangers and may not tolerate rough play or tugging, so supervision is necessary. They have a playful and energetic nature that can make them good companions for active kids.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Shiba Inus can be selective about their dog friends and may not tolerate dominant or rough play from other canines. Socialization from a young age and careful introductions are necessary. As with any breed, individual temperament may vary.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Shiba Inus can be reserved with strangers and may require slow and gentle introductions. They have a natural suspicion towards unfamiliar people and may become defensive or aggressive if they feel threatened. Early socialization and positive experiences can help to mitigate this tendency.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Shiba Inus are known for their playful and lively nature, but they can also be independent and like to entertain themselves. They enjoy games of fetch, chasing and are particularly fond of puzzle toys or interactive games that engage their mental abilities.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Shiba Inus are naturally alert and vigilant, which can make them good watchdogs. They are quick to sound an alarm if they perceive a threat or if they sense something that is out of the ordinary. This trait can also make them easily excitable or anxious when exposed to new situations or environments.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Shiba Inus can be adaptable to new environments and situations as long as they are introduced gradually and with positive reinforcement. However, they can become stressed or anxious if subjected to sudden changes or if they are left alone for long periods of time.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Shiba Inus have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. They also shed moderately throughout the year, which can make them unsuitable for people with allergies or a preference for a clean home. Regular grooming can help to control shedding.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Shiba Inus have a clean and self-sufficient nature and do not require frequent bathing. However, their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and to distribute natural oils. They also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing to maintain overall health.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Shiba Inus are a dry-mouthed breed and do not drool excessively. This can make them a good choice for people who dislike drool-related messes or who want a clean and tidy home.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Shiba Inus are a small-to-medium-sized breed that typically weigh between 17 to 23 pounds and stand 13.5 to 16.5 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy and compact body that is well-proportioned with a broad face and erect ears. Their small size makes them suitable for apartment living, but they still require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Shiba Inus have a moderate to high energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental health. They do well in homes with access to a yard or with dedicated time for daily walks or other activities. Regular exercise can also help to minimize destructive or anxious behaviors.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Shiba Inus are an active breed that requires regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They do well with daily walks or runs, play sessions, and interactive puzzles. They may also enjoy agility or obedience training, as well as activities that channel their natural prey drive, such as lure coursing or fetch. Exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Shiba Inus were originally bred for hunting and are known for their strong prey drive, independence, and alertness. They can excel in a variety of working roles, such as search and rescue, therapy, agility, and obedience. However, they can also be stubborn and may require patient and consistent training to succeed.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Shiba Inus are natural hunters with a strong prey drive and good scenting abilities. They were originally bred to hunt small game, such as birds and rodents, and can still be used for this purpose today. They can also be trained for other hunting activities, such as tracking or scent work. However, their independence and stubbornness can make them more difficult to train than some other hunting breeds.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Shiba Inus have a high level of physical stamina and require regular exercise to maintain it. They enjoy running, playing, and engaging in other activities that require endurance. However, their mental energy can also be high, and they need a lot of mental stimulation and challenges to keep them mentally sharp and happy.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Shiba Inus are generally healthy and long-lived dogs, with a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. They are prone to certain genetic health issues, such as hip dysplasia or patellar luxation, so it's important to get them from reputable breeders who conduct health screenings. Regular vet checkups and a healthy diet can help to prevent or manage health issues.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Shiba Inus have a moderate to high metabolism and can become overweight or obese if they are overfed or underexercised. They should be fed a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Regular exercise, such as daily walks or playtime, can help to prevent obesity and other health issues.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Shiba Inus have a thick double coat that can provide insulation during cold weather, but they are not as tolerant of extreme cold as some other breeds. They can benefit from warm jackets, sweaters, and booties when exposed to very low temperatures. Caution should also be exercised during snow or ice walking because they can be prone to slipping and injuring themselves.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Shiba Inus can tolerate mild to moderate heat, but they are not well-suited to hot and humid environments. They can overheat quickly and are prone to heatstroke or sunburn. They should be provided with shade, cool water, and air conditioning during hot weather. Exercise should be kept to a minimum during the hottest parts of the day.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Shiba Inus can adapt to apartment living as long as they receive enough exercise and mental stimulation. They can be energetic and noisy at times, so careful consideration should be given to neighbors and shared spaces. Regular walks, play sessions, and puzzle toys can help to prevent boredom and destructive behavior in small spaces.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Shiba Inus have a tendency to wander and explore their environment, which can make them prone to running away or getting lost. They have a high prey drive and may be easily distracted by small animals or interesting scents. Supervision and training can help to prevent escaping or roaming behaviors.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Shiba Inus can be sensitive to criticism or negative reinforcement and may shut down or become anxious if subjected to harsh or punitive training methods. They respond better to positive reinforcement and gentle guidance. They can also be sensitive to changes in routine or environment and may require time to adjust.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Shiba Inus can adapt to being left alone for short periods of time as long as they are properly crate-trained and gradually desensitized to separation. However, they can become anxious or destructive if left alone for extended periods or if they feel abandoned. They do well with interactive toys and puzzles to help them cope with loneliness.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Shiba Inus are generally not excessive barkers, but they can be vocal when they want to communicate their needs or if they feel provoked. They can also become barky if they are bored, anxious or stressed. Early training and socialization can help to channel this tendency in a positive way.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Shiba Inus are intelligent and curious dogs that need mental stimulation and engagement to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They are good at problem-solving and can benefit from interactive games, trick training, and agility exercises. They also have a strong prey drive and may enjoy activities that channel this instinct, such as lure coursing or scent work.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Shiba Inus are not recommended for first-time or inexperienced dog owners because of their independent and strong-willed nature. They require consistent and patient training and socialization, as well as a strong and confident leader. They can be a good fit for experienced owners who are familiar with the breed's unique characteristics.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Shiba Inus have an independent and self-sufficient nature that can make them challenging to train. They are intelligent, but they can be stubborn and may require consistent and patient training methods. Positive reinforcement is often more effective than punishment or negative reinforcement.

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History of the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six native Japanese breeds. They were originally bred for hunting small game, such as birds and rabbits. They were also used for hunting larger game, such as wild boar and even bears. Their name comes from the Japanese word 'shiba,' which means brushwood, a reference to the brushwood bushes where they would often hunting. They nearly went extinct in Japan during World War II but were saved by a group of dedicated breeders who worked to restore the breed.

Shiba Inu Puppies

Shiba Inu puppies are incredibly cute with their fox-like faces and chubby bodies. They are born with floppy ears that eventually perk up as they grow. They are typically very active and curious, and need plenty of attention and stimulation. They can be difficult to train due to their independent nature, but with patience and consistency, they make wonderful companions.