The Shiba Inu is one of the most iconic dog breeds from Japan and has won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Small, agile, and independent, it has a strong personality that sets it apart from other breeds. This dog, often compared to a fox due to its appearance, is renowned for its intelligence, its sharp mind, and its strong temperament. And if you’re not yet aware of all this, this article is for you!
Origins of the Shiba Inu #
The Shiba Inu is an ancient breed originating from Japan, where it was used for hunting small game in the mountains. It is one of the six recognized Japanese breeds, alongside the Akita Inu and the Kishu Inu. Its name “Shiba” means “small” in Japanese, although some believe it refers to the red color of its coat, similar to autumn leaves.
During World War II, the breed nearly went extinct, but breeding programs helped save it. Today, the Shiba Inu is the most popular dog in Japan and has been exported worldwide.
Physical Characteristics #
Size and Weight #
The Shiba Inu is a small but well-proportioned and muscular dog. It has an elegant and agile appearance.
| Gender | Height at the withers | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 15 - 16 inches | 18 - 24 lbs |
| Female | 14 - 15 inches | 13 - 20 lbs |
Coat Color #
The Shiba Inu has a dense double coat that protects it from the elements. Its official coat colors are:
- Red (the most common)
- Black and tan
- Sesame (a harmonious mix of black and red hairs)
- Cream (less common and not recognized by all standards)
Specificities of the Shiba Inu #
The Shiba Inu is distinguished by its unique appearance: triangular erect ears, a curled tail over the back, and a lively expression. It is also known for its Shiba scream, a high-pitched cry it makes when upset or excited (watch out for your ears!).
Behavior of the Shiba Inu #
While the Shiba Inu looks like a real plush toy, its temperament can sometimes be challenging to manage. It’s important to be prepared.
Behavior with Children #
The Shiba Inu can live with children, but it is not the most patient of dogs. It appreciates respectful interactions but does not tolerate rough gestures well. It is therefore preferable to supervise interactions with young children.
Behavior with Other Animals #
Due to its strong hunting instinct, the Shiba Inu may not get along with small animals like rodents or cats. Early socialization is essential to improve its tolerance.
Health of the Shiba Inu #
Life Expectancy #
The Shiba Inu is a robust dog that lives on average between 12 and 16 years.
Common Diseases #
Although generally healthy, it can be prone to certain conditions:
| Disease | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Skin allergies | Reactions to food or environmental allergens. | High |
| Hip dysplasia | Joint malformation that can cause arthritis. | Medium |
| Patellar luxation | Abnormal displacement of the kneecap, common in small breeds. | Medium |
| Glaucoma | Increased intraocular pressure that can lead to blindness. | Low |
Training the Shiba Inu #
Attention, training the Shiba Inu is to be taken very seriously! This is, of course, true for all dogs, but this breed requires special attention due to its strong personality.
✔️ Positive Training Methods #
The Shiba Inu is an intelligent but very independent dog, which can complicate its training. It is crucial to use positive reinforcement methods based on rewards (treats, praise) rather than coercion, which could backfire. Patience and consistency are essential.
✔️ Importance of Early Socialization #
Early socialization is essential to prevent it from becoming fearful or aggressive with strangers and other animals. It should be exposed to various environments, sounds, people, and situations from a young age to thrive fully.
✔️ House Training #
The Shiba Inu is a naturally clean dog, which makes house training easier. However, it is recommended to establish a strict routine from the start to teach it where to relieve itself.
✔️ Teaching Basic Commands #
Commands like sit, lie down, heel, and stay should be taught from a young age. Repetition and reward are the keys to its learning, although it may sometimes test its owner’s limits.
❌ Managing Undesirable Behaviors #
The Shiba Inu is known for its stubborn and independent nature. It tends to ignore commands if it doesn’t find them interesting. Here are some tips to channel its temperament:
- Avoid forcing it: A strict approach will only strengthen its resistance.
- Work on motivation: Use treats or toys to capture its attention.
- Be consistent: Rules must be applied consistently to avoid confusion.
- Encourage recall on a long line: Its escape instinct can be problematic, so it’s advisable to train it regularly on recall.
If its escape instinct still prevails, GPS trackers for dogs, like the Minitailz by Invoxia, can save you a lot of worry!
Character and Lifestyle of the Shiba Inu #
Physical Activity and Exercise #
The Shiba Inu is an active dog that needs daily exercise. Although it can be independent, it enjoys walks and outdoor games. A walk of at least one hour a day is essential for its balance.
Indoor Character #
The Shiba Inu is calm indoors but likes to have its personal space. It is clean and appreciates comfortable places to rest. However, it does not like prolonged confinement and needs mental stimulation.
Character with Family and Other Animals #
It is loyal to its family and can be affectionate, but without being intrusive. With other animals, it can be reserved or even dominant if not well socialized from a young age.
Living Environment #
The Shiba Inu can live in an apartment if it has regular outings. It adapts well to both city and countryside, but a well-fenced garden is recommended to prevent escapes.
Care and Hygiene of the Shiba Inu #
Even though it is a relatively clean dog and its coat is self-cleaning, regular maintenance is essential to keep it healthy.
Grooming and Coat Care #
Its coat requires regular maintenance:
- Brushing: 2 to 3 times a week, and daily during shedding periods.
- Bathing: Every 2 to 3 months or in case of heavy soiling.
- Drying: Thoroughly dry its coat after a bath to prevent irritation.
General Hygiene #
- Ears: Weekly cleaning to prevent wax buildup.
- Teeth: Brushing 2 to 3 times a week to prevent tartar.
- Nails: Trim every 4 to 6 weeks if they do not wear down naturally.
Adoption and Cost of a Shiba Inu #
The Shiba Inu is a Japanese breed, and there are few breeders in Europe. This obviously affects the adoption price.
Purchase Price #
The price of a Shiba Inu ranges between 1,500 and 3,000 €, depending on the breeder and lineage.
Annual Cost #
| Expenses | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Food | 500 - 800 € |
| Veterinary care | 300 - 500 € |
| Accessories | 100 - 200 € |
| Training and education | 150 - 500 € |
| Health insurance (optional) | 200 - 500 € |
The Shiba Inu is a fascinating but demanding dog, requiring rigorous training and a patient owner. It is not suitable for novices, but with good socialization and proper care, it becomes a loyal and independent companion.