Shiba Inu

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:

• bowls
• blankets
• a dog bed
• lead
• harness & collar
• grooming tools
• car travel safety
• and many toys!

Monthly costs include suitable food, insurance, and regular vet visits, which can spike if the dog falls ill.

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.

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.

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.

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.