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Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu
Origin
Japan
Size
Small Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
15º-25ºC
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹2,200
Basic Lifestyle
₹3,750
Premium Lifestyle
Top 5 Traits
Intelligent
Energetic
Disciplined
Loyal
Fearless
by Neha Mridul
Quick Information
Shiba Inu dogs are one of the oldest and well known Japanese dog breeds. Going back to at least 300 B.C. they were originally bred for hunting small game, and sometimes wild boars, in Japan’s mountainous regions.
Many might say they look like small foxes with their upright ears and pointed muzzle. Shiba Inus are known for their bold, spirited personality and independent streaks. They are very intelligent, confident, and loyal to their families but can be reserved around strangers. They still have a very strong prey drive and given a chance will chase anything to high heavens.
Shiba Inu is a stubborn breed no doubt, but early socialization and consistent training can help them become well-mannered and affectionate companions. Their alert nature and keen instincts make them excellent watchdogs.
Characteristics
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Nutrition
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Calories per day
Puppies: 1000 kcal
Adults: 700 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Fibre
Minerals
Vitamins
List of foods
Chicken
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Fruits
Vegetables
Home made meals
Shiba Inus are very smart and energetic dogs. They require regular exercise of at least one hour and added playtime to stay healthy and mentally stimulated. If you are looking to get a Shiba Inu, understanding that due to their independent nature, they might not always engage in structured activities is a must. As an active breed, they can become overweight, leading to weight-related health issues like joint problems and diabetes without regular exercise.
As recommended by the AAFCO, these dogs need a well-balanced diet that meets all their nutrient requirements. Adult Shiba Inus can be fed two meals a day. As puppies grow rapidly, they need 3-4 meals daily to support their development.
Their food should contain adequate amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to fulfill their nutritional needs.
Consult your veterinarian to design a proper diet plan for your Shiba Inu at different life stages, including puppyhood, adulthood, and senior years. Proper nutrition along with care can contribute to a Shiba Inu lifespan reaching 15 years.
Note: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Selecting Good Quality Food
- The food you provide for your Shiba Inu should be rich in essential proteins to support muscle development. Meat-based options such as chicken, turkey, fish, and lean beef are great for your Shiba Inu.
- Choose a high-quality dry food to meet their dietary needs.
- Boiled vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and green beans can be good options to get vital minerals for overall growth.
- Make sure their diet includes fiber-rich foods to promote good digestion. Additionally, fruits like apples, blueberries, and bananas offer natural antioxidants without excess sugar.
- Shiba Inus need omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy coat and support overall well-being.
Never feed these foods to Shiba Inu
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Almonds
Avocados
Cinnamon
Dairy
Garlic
Grapes
Lemon
Milk Products
Mushrooms
Onions
Salt
Sugar
- Some foods can make your Shiba Inu sick or cause allergies. It’s important to know what to keep them away from.
- Avoid fried and oily foods. These are hard to digest and can lead to weight gain, heart problems, and stomach issues.
- Stay away from food with artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. These can cause allergies, itching, and long-term health problems. Always check the ingredients before buying dog food.
- Never give foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, garlic, or onions. These can cause poisoning, kidney failure, or even death. Even a small bite can be dangerous.
- Be careful with dairy. Many Shiba Inus are lactose intolerant, and milk, cheese, or ice cream can cause bloating, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
- Raw eggs, fish, or meat should be given with caution. If not processed correctly, they can carry bacteria like salmonella, which can make your dog very sick. Always cook food properly before feeding.
Before starting your Shiba Inu on any new food, double-check if it’s safe. When in doubt, ask your vet!
Health
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 300 - ₹ 750
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Hip Dysplasia
Parasites
Parvovirus
Canine Influenza
Heartworm
Leptospirosis
Kennel Cough
Well being
Exercise
Bonding
Socialization
Hiking
Agility Training
Games
Energy Level
High
Exercise routine
30 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
Excessive Panting
Decreased play
Medical Care
Shiba Inus are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some common health problems. Here are a few conditions to watch out for as listed out by PetMD and the American Kennel Club:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a joint disorder where the hip does not develop properly. It can cause pain, limping, and difficulty walking. Treatment includes medication, therapy, or surgery.
- Allergies: Shiba Inus are prone to food and environmental allergies. Symptoms include itching, ear infections, and skin rashes. A special diet and vet-approved treatments can help manage this.
- Patellar Luxation: This happens when the kneecap slips out of place. Signs include limping or a "bunny hop" walk. Mild cases may not need treatment, but severe cases might require surgery.
- Glaucoma: This is a serious eye condition that causes high pressure in the eye. It can lead to pain and even blindness. Early treatment with eye drops or surgery can help manage it.
- Hypothyroidism: This happens when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. It causes weight gain, tiredness, and a dull coat. There is no cure, but daily medication keeps it under control.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): Also known as bloat, this is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists. Signs include a swollen belly, restlessness, and drooling. This needs emergency vet care and can sometimes be prevented with surgery.
- Anxiety: Shiba Inus can experience anxiety, which may show as pacing, barking, whining, or destructive behavior. An early sign is hyperalertness—constant looking around, restlessness, and difficulty settling down. Since triggers vary by dog, understanding what stresses your Shiba Inu can help you manage or avoid them.
Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and exercise can help keep your Shiba Inu happy and healthy!
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 Weeks
Distemper
10-12 Weeks
Parvovirus
14-16 Weeks
Hepatitis
18-20 Weeks
Parainfluenza
Annually
Booster Shots
Recommendations to care for senior Shiba Inu dogs
- As Shiba Inus get older, their needs gradually change. Senior Shibas are more prone to joint problems like arthritis, so regular vet visits are important to catch and manage age-related issues early.
- Weight management is key. Older Shibas are less active, so adjust their diet so they stay a healthy weight. Make sure their food has all the necessary nutrients. Senior dog formulas for joint support also help.
- Dental care is also crucial. Schedule regular dental check-ups, as dental disease can be common in older dogs and impact their overall health.
- Create a cozy and safe living space. Provide soft bedding, and make sure their favorite spots are easy to reach. Avoid stairs if they struggle with mobility.
- Gentle exercise, like short walks and light play, helps keep them fit without overexertion. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys or gentle training sessions keeps their mind sharp.
- Most importantly, shower them with love and patience as they enjoy their golden years.
Keep in touch with your vet and take them for regular checkups. Many issues can be prevented or caught early by regular visits to the vet.
Grooming
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 700 - ₹ 1,200
Shedding Level
Moderate Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Brushing
Bathing
Ear Cleaning
Nail Trimming
Eye Care
Teeth Care
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Prevents infections
Quality of life
Odourless
Prevents Bad Breath
- Shiba Inus have a thick double coat and shed a lot, especially during shedding seasons. Brushing at least three to four times a week helps remove loose fur and prevent matting. Daily brushing is best during heavy shedding.
- Bathing should be done once a month. Too many baths can dry out their skin, so use a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo.
- Clean their ears regularly to remove dirt and prevent infections. Check for redness or bad odors.
- Trim their nails every few weeks. Overgrown nails can cause pain and make walking uncomfortable.
- Dental care is just as important. Brush their teeth with vet-approved toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and bad breath.
Good grooming keeps your Shiba Inu clean, comfortable, and healthy!
Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!
Cost of buying
₹ 40,000 - ₹ 1,00,000
If you're considering a Shiba Inu for your home, you have two main options: buying or adopting.
Buying
- When purchasing a Shiba Inu, the most important thing is choosing a reputable breeder.
- Make sure the Shiba Inu breeder treats the dogs well and follows ethical breeding practices.
- Ask the breeder for health certificates and lineage papers to confirm the dog is healthy and purebred.
- It's also a good idea to visit the kennel to ensure proper conditions and avoid any signs of inbreeding.
- The cost of a Shiba Inu puppy can vary based on factors like bloodlines, show quality, and the breeder’s reputation.
Adopt
- Adopting a Shiba Inu is a great way to give a homeless dog a loving home.
- Breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or other rescue groups may have Shibas available for adoption.
- Adoption fees typically cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and any initial medical care.
- These fees are usually lower than buying from a breeder and help support the rescue organizations.
If you're interested in Shiba Inus, you may also like these similar breeds:
Akita | Welsh Corgi | Basenji | Japanese Chin | Finnish Spitz | Samoyed
Prerequisites to pet a Shiba Inu
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Financial Capability
Lifestyle Compatibility
Space and Environment
Access to Groomer
Now that you know what it takes to raise a Shiba Inu, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?
Now that you know what it takes to raise a Shiba Inu, are you ready to take the next step?
Research:
Start by learning about the Shiba Inu breed. Understand their personality, behavior, grooming needs, exercise requirements, and any health concerns. Make sure a Shiba Inu fits well with your lifestyle and daily routine.
Find reputable sources:
Before buying a Shiba Inu puppy, look for a reliable breeder who follows ethical breeding practices. If you’re considering adoption, check with breed-specific rescues, animal shelters, or rescue groups.
Visit breeders/adoption centers:
Plan a visit to the breeder or adoption center to meet the dog in person. Get to know their temperament, health history, vaccination records, and lineage. If adopting, ask about their past experiences and health.
Ask for documentation:
Always request health certificates, vaccination records, and any other important documentation from the breeder. If adopting, ask about any past or current medical conditions and behavior details.
Prepare your home:
Make sure your home is ready for your new Shiba Inu. Consider their space, exercise, and grooming needs. Stock up on essentials like food, bowls, a comfy bed, grooming tools, and toys. Be prepared for the time and commitment needed to care for your dog.
Once you're prepared, you're ready to welcome your new Shiba Inu into your family!
Written by
Neha Mridul
Author
With over 15 years of experience in pet parenting, dog rescue, and fostering, I have dedicated myself to the battlefield of animal welfare in India. For over a decade, I have specialized in content writing for the pet industry and animal-related topics, leveraging my background as a print journalist to inform and engage readers. In my leisure time, I enjoy reading fiction, watching superhero movies, and exploring literature on animals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shiba Inus good family pets?
Shiba Inus can make excellent family pets with proper training and socialization. They are loyal and affectionate towards their family members but may be reserved or aloof with strangers.
Do Shiba Inus have a strong prey drive?
Yes, Shiba Inus have a strong prey drive, which means they may chase small animals such as squirrels or rabbits. It's important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area when outdoors to prevent them from chasing or getting into potentially dangerous situations.
Are Shiba Inus good with children?
Shiba Inus can be good with children when properly socialized and supervised. However, they have a strong personality and may not tolerate rough handling or overly energetic behavior from young children. Early socialization and training are key to fostering a positive relationship between a Shiba Inu and children.
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