Shiba Inu

DOG BREED: Shiba Inu

DOG BREED GROUP: Non-Sporting Group

The Shiba Inu is a non-sporting dog with ancient Japanese origins. Shiba translates to “brushwood” and Inu to “dog.” Its introduction into the Western world came as recently as 60 years ago, but this little dog has made a big impact on American culture. You can find the face of the red Shiba Inu in the very popular “doggo” memes on social media. These memes have caused an even more rapid uptick in the breed’s popularity throughout recent years.

If you’re interested in dogs that look like foxes or teddy bears, then this is definitely where to start looking (thanks to their coloring, stride, and unique facial expressions). They are also one of the top dog breeds known to make great companion animals. So, without further ado, let’s get into what you need to know about this fun, sweet, and spunky, American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized breed!

SHIBA INU HISTORY

Shiba Inu Country of Origin: Japan

The Shiba Inu (pronounced SHE-bah EE-noo) has ancient origins in Japan, dating all the way back to around 300 B.C. These dogs were used as hunters in the rough, mountainous terrain that is found all over Japanese islands. A military family brought the first documented Shiba Inu into the U.S. in 1954. This breed nearly went extinct around this time (WWII era) but was able to survive the extreme deprivations due to their incredible hunting abilities.

SHIBA INU SIZE

*Where 1 is smallest and 10 is largest:

Average Weight: 3/10
Average Height: 3/10

The breed standard height of a mature male is about 14.5 to 16.5 inches at the withers (shoulders). In females, wither height averages 13.5 to 15.5 inches. The average weight of this breed is about 23 lbs for males and 17 lbs for females. The height to length ratio of Shiba Inus is about 10 to 11 in males, with a slightly longer ratio in females. The males tend to be a bit more muscular than females, as well.

Once used for hunting (mostly birds and small game from the time of Shiba Inu origin), this dog breed is small, yet very muscular, making them able to accomplish tasks and tricks that are seemingly impossible. They are the smallest of Japan’s native dog breeds but shouldn’t be underestimated.

SHIBA INU TEMPERAMENT & PERSONALITY

*Where 1 is least and 10 is most:

Friendliness: 6.5/10
Sensitivity Levels: 6/10
Trainability: 8/10
Intelligence: 8/10

The Shiba Inu temperament is one that is well-natured and high-spirited. They are known to have good personality traits. Families with Shiba Inus note the liveliness and friendliness of this breed. In fact, they are the most popular dog breed for companion dog use in Japan. Shibas are described as bold and confident, making them ideal as companions.

While they may not be the most intelligent breed, Shibas are one of the most popular companion dogs today. They are still quite smart and will prove to be a devoted and capable companion (whether you get one for for service or just as another member of the family). With proper training techniques and lots of positive reinforcement, you will find your Shiba performing at the top tier with some of the smartest breeds out there.

SHIBA INU ENERGY LEVELS

*Where 1 is least and 10 is most:

Energy Levels: 6/10
Exercise Needs: 6/10

This breed can have high energy levels but is also very easily trained and aims to serve. A Shiba puppy will obviously have much more energy than their adult counterparts, but this is to be expected with almost any breed. They are very adaptable to their environment and do well when left alone. However, as many owners know, these dogs can be known for the Shiba scream, which can sound more like a suffering cat than a happy dog. Most find this “screaming” to be an adorable and charming trait, however.

Leash training a Shiba Inu can be difficult, but is important for this breed. Many owners put their Shiba Inu puppies in obedience classes at a young age, which can help tremendously throughout life.

BEST FAMILY SETTING FOR SHIBA INUS

*Where 1 is least and 10 is most:

Compatibility with children: 6/10
Compatibility with strangers: 6.5/10
Compatibility with other dogs: 6/10
Room to Roam: 6.5/10

Shiba Inu dogs are very adaptable and can find comfort in both rural and urban settings (even apartment living). But, as with any dog, if you are in an urban setting, you must find time for walks daily, so your dog can get the important exercise they need.

A fenced yard (with toys) is ideal for this breed. Playtime with you is also very important. Shiba Inu puppies will thrive with lots of love, attention, and compassionate training. They aim to serve as a loyal companion and thrive off of your affection.

Shiba Inus are not well-suited from homes with young children. They are an attentive yet patient breed, and need the same qualities in their human companions. These qualities make them perfect for just about any dog lover, but can have some minor issues with smaller children and/or other dogs in the home. However, Shibas can also be great dogs in homes with older children.

GROOMING YOUR SHIBA INU

*Where 1 is least and 10 is most:

Shedding Potential: 8/10
Extreme Weather Resilience: 7/10
Hypoallergenic? No

Proper grooming is necessary for this breed. These dogs are fairly passive and easy to groom yourself.

Shiba Inu colors do not affect the amount of shedding. Both the red Shiba Inu and the black Shiba Inu are long-haired with a dense undercoat that will shed frequently. They need to be brushed at least once a week to get rid of shedding hairs as well as to distribute oils throughout the hair shaft. This helps to keep the coat shiny and healthy. You should also be trimming their nails and even brushing their teeth. Starting young with a Shiba puppy can make this much easier in their adult life.

SHIBA INU COAT COLORS

Shibas most often have a fawn (light reddish orange) coat with some small white markings, but can come in a variety of different shades. The most common coat colors for Shiba Inus are:

Red
Black & tan
Sesame
Cream

OVERALL HEALTH OF SHIBA INUS

*Where 10 is healthiest.

Overall Health: 9/10

The Shiba Inu does quite well in the area of overall health, especially with exercise, high-quality dog food, treats, and proper veterinary care. As with most dog breeds, you should feed age-appropriate food (puppy, adult, senior, etc). You should note that some Shibas can be picky eaters, but many will eat just about anything in site. Shiba Inu dogs can become overweight or obese if calorie consumption isn’t controlled.

Shiba Inu Health Warnings:

Shibas can suffer with allergy issues. This is something you should look out for with any new Shiba in your home. Some are also prone to getting cataracts as they age. Overall, this dog breed has fairly good health. You shouldn’t spend too much money over the course of their life with costs above and beyond normal care.

SHIBA INU LIFE EXPECTANCY

The average lifespan of the Shiba Inu breed is about 12 to 15 years.

As long as a Shiba is well-looked after, taken to the vet regularly, fed the right diet, gets proper exercise, love, and socialization, there’s no reason a Shiba Inu should not live a long and happy life.

AVERAGE COST OF SHIBA INUS

*Where $ $ $ $ is the most expensive and $ is the least.

Cost Rating: $ $

Your biggest costs will most likely come when first acquiring your new family member. The Shiba Inu price can vary greatly, depending on if you purchase or rescue/adopt (along with some other contributing factors). A Shiba Inu puppy from a breeder will run you about $800 – $1,000. Adoption costs will obviously be much less but can vary. You can expect to spend anywhere from $75 – about $200 at a rescue/shelter (depending on your location and resources).

Yearly costs will be less than larger breeds. Feeding and ongoing care should be about $500 – $800 per year. You should consider costs of grooming, as well as monthly meds like heartworm, flea, and tick preventatives.

SHIBA INU RESCUE

If you are interested in Shiba Inu rescue, then check out the National Shiba Club of America Rescue website for more information on rescuing sweet Shibas that need loving homes.

KNOW YOUR BREED FOR A HEALTHY AND HAPPY DOG

Please see our full list of dog breeds for a comprehensive database filled with helpful and interesting information about man’s best friend. All dog breeds are not necessarily created equal. Some of the most popular dog breeds can come with some pretty big surprises for their new families if not researched fully. When dog ownership is done right and responsibly, we can enjoy our best friends for as long as possible and with the best quality of life in that time.

Every dog owner should ALWAYS have their pets spayed and/or neutered, as well. You should be able to find local vets, shelters, or other resources (check out local pet supply stores) that offer discounted rates for vaccinations and/or neutering services if needed. A healthy dog is a happy dog!