The fluffy fur and convenient size make the Shiba Inu an attractive companion for many dog lovers at first glance. However, living with this Japanese spitz requires knowledge about dog training and a love for outdoor activities.
“Shiba Inu” simply translates to “small dog.” Indeed, the Shiba Inu, which can weigh up to 13kg, is the smallest of the six Japanese dog breeds recognised by the FCI. Its signature features are its erect, triangular ears, which highlight its alert expression.
Fur Colours from Red to Sesame
The tail should be curled over the back according to the breed standard. The short fur can be red, black-tan, or sesame, the latter being a mix of red and black hairs.
Each colour should exhibit “Urajiro,” which refers to whitish hairs around the mouth, throat, chest, belly, and the underside of the tail and inner legs.
Overall, the appearance of these Japanese dogs is very primitive, especially with red-coloured ones, which resemble foxes.
Shiba Inus are dominant dogs with strong protective instincts
Character of the Shiba Inu: Strong and Smart
A Shiba Inu has a mind of its own. This independent dog does not like to be subordinate. It also has strong territorial behaviour, hunting passion and a general distrust of strangers, whether human or canine.
Exercise and Good Socialisation Are Crucial
A Shiba Inu makes a good watchdog but doesn’t typically bark unnecessarily. With proper socialisation from puppyhood, it can integrate well into a group later on. When well-trained, it can also bond well with pets from the same household.
Those who earn the friendship of a Shiba Inu will find a loyal companion. The breed is known for being alert and affectionate. A well-exercised Shiba Inu is calm yet always attentive.
Training: Clear Leadership Required
Are you a leader? Only then will you be able to train a dog of this breed successfully. This independent dog has little will-to-please and sees itself as the best pack leader unless proven otherwise.
Are Shiba Inus Really So Difficult to Train?
Training requires empathy, experience, loving consistency and, most importantly, patience. Inconsistencies, uncertainties, or harsh treatment will make a Shiba Inu unwilling to be subordinate.
However, if you meet its high standards and lead it clearly, you shouldn’t encounter many problems with training.
Is the Shiba Inu Dangerous?
Proper imprinting and socialisation during the puppy and young dog phase are particularly important to ensure the adult dog is not incompatible with other dogs.
Given its strong hunting drive, off-lead walking is not always possible. Your dog must be reliably recallable, which requires significant training for this breed. Dog owners should also channel the Shiba Inu’s protective instinct in a controlled manner to ensure safety.
Care: Is a Shiba Inu Suitable for Beginners?
Considering sharing your life with a Shiba Inu? You should already have some experience with dogs, as this breed is not for beginners. Training requires time, patience, and resilience. Prospective Shiba Inu owners should also enjoy outdoor activities in all weather conditions.
Apartment Living Is Possible
With proper training and sufficient exercise, the breed can adapt to apartment living, provided your landlord agrees. All family members should agree to the new companion and be allergy-free.
This Japanese spitz is not a dog for cleanliness fanatics or those who love black velvet trousers, as it sheds significantly, especially during the bi-annual fur shedding season.
Is a Shiba Inu Suitable as a Family Dog?
The breed can get along well with older children but requires space to retreat. It accepts other pets if socialised properly as a puppy, but it should not be left alone with a guinea pig due to its instinct to hunt.
Plan for Holiday Care
Plan for the dog’s care during holidays or illness. Many well-trained dogs can accompany you on holiday, as numerous hotels welcome dogs.
However, avoid very warm destinations with your Shiba Inu, as it may struggle with the heat. If home care is necessary, ensure it’s provided by experienced dog owners; otherwise, your Shiba Inu might develop unwanted habits during your absence.
Keep an Eye on Costs
Consider the initial and ongoing costs before bringing a Shiba Inu home. Initial costs include the dog’s price, basic equipment like:
Monthly costs include suitable food, insurance, and regular vet visits, which can spike if the dog falls ill.
Health and Care of the Shiba Inu
Few Breed-Specific Diseases
These adventurous Japanese dogs have few genetic predispositions for specific diseases, provided there is no inbreeding.
Healthy Shiba Inus are generally robust, but they can still suffer from conditions like hip dysplasia or cataracts. However, the risk isn’t elevated, especially if you choose a dog from a reputable breeder.
How Long Does a Shiba Inu Live?
Ensure your dog doesn’t become overweight by providing a diet rich in meat and plenty of exercise. A healthy Shiba Inu can live up to 15 years.
Avoid strenuous activities with your fluffy companion during the summer heat due to its warm fur.
Care: Short Hair, Low Maintenance
The Shiba Inu’s fluffy fur consists of straight top coat and fine undercoat. Occasional brushing suffices for coat care, as its short fur doesn’t matt easily.
However, during the bi-annual fur shedding season, more frequent brushing is necessary. Shiba Inus shed heavily for two to four weeks. Fortunately, their hairs lack barbs, making them easy to remove from furniture and clothing.
Tips for Dental Hygiene
A bonus for owners with sensitive noses: The Shiba Inu exhibits minimal typical dog odour, even when wet.
For healthy teeth, give your dog dry chew treats and brush its teeth regularly. Start puppyhood by introducing a dog toothbrush and toothpaste.
Activity: Plenty of Time Outdoors
Nature lovers will appreciate the Shiba Inu’s love for long walks in any weather. Adult Shiba Inus can also be good jogging or cycling companions after building up their stamina and considering their hunting instincts.
Try Various Dog Sports
A Shiba Inu prefers tasks with a clear purpose, so simple retrieving doesn’t always interest it. Some enjoy agility, while others don’t. Explore what activities make you and your dog happy together.
Tips for Feeding the Shiba Inu
Dry Food Is Convenient
Dry food is relatively inexpensive and convenient. Keep an eye on your dog’s drinking habits to ensure it stays hydrated.
Wet Food Is Popular
Wet food contains about 80% water and is often preferred by dogs due to its strong odour. You can also offer a mix of wet and dry food.
Trend: BARFing
For those opting for “BARFing” (biologically appropriate raw feeding), thorough research is essential. Besides raw meat, your Shiba Inu will need vegetables, oils, bones, and herbs in proper quantities to avoid malnutrition.
Gradual Food Transitions
Make dietary changes gradually to prevent stomach upsets or diarrhoea. Mix the new food with the old food in increasing amounts over several days.
Timing and Location for Feeding
Young dogs need multiple feedings a day, depending on their age; adults need two. Avoid strict feeding times to prevent barking in the kitchen.
Feed in a designated, quiet, and easily cleaned spot. Provide a rest period after meals, ideally after walks.
History: From Central Japanese Mountains to Worldwide
The breed’s roots are in central Japan’s mountains, where the Shiba Inu’s ancestors served as guards and hunting companions.
The Shiba Inu as a Natural Monument
After mixes with Setters and Pointers in the late 19th century, pure Shiba Inus became rare. Enthusiasts began selective breeding in 1928, and a definitive standard has existed since 1934.
Today’s Shiba Inu is slightly larger and stronger than its ancestors. In 1937, Japan named it a “Natural Monument,” which helped its spread. It’s now one of Japan’s most popular dogs, though it’s less common outside the country.
The breeder should allow you to meet the puppies and their parents at home. All dogs should appear balanced and lively. A Shiba Inu puppy will cost you at least £1,000.
Proper imprinting during puppyhood is crucial. The breeder should prioritise early integration into daily life. If you want your dog to get along with cats, find a breeder with cats.
Finding Your Ideal Shiba Inu
If you’re set on this Japanese breed and meet all care requirements, start looking for a reputable breeder. Avoid offers without proof of pedigree to ensure you get a purebred Shiba Inu.
Ensure the breeder is a club member, indicating responsible breeding practices for the breed’s welfare. Parent dogs must meet health and character requirements before breeding.
Looking for an Adult Shiba Inu
If you prefer an adult dog, consider various options, though purebred Shiba Inus are rare in local shelters. The internet has many Shiba Inus seeking new homes for various reasons.
Seek Professional Help
Some Shiba Inus are surrendered due to their dominance behaviour and owners underestimating their own competence. These dogs often require professional training and socialisation.
Experienced owners or those willing to seek professional help from dog trainers or schools can handle such dogs.
Talk to the Previous Owner
There are well-behaved representatives of the breed in shelters. A thorough conversation with the adoption source, whether a previous owner or shelter staff, can help determine compatibility.
A personal meeting is ideal. Sharing your life with a “second-hand dog” can be highly rewarding.
We wish you much delight with your characterful Shiba Inu!
Natalie Decker
"A life without a pug is possible, but pointless," Loriot once said. I would unreservedly agree and add: "A life without horse, cat and rabbit as well!" My heart beats for all animals big and small and I have the great fortune to be able to write about my passion as a freelance author. With my articles I would like to raise awareness for animal welfare and give useful tips to animal lovers.
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