Shiba Inu
Quick Summary
Independent and intelligent breed best suited for experienced owners. Combines apartment-friendly size with strong personality. Requires consistent training and secure environment.
Contents
Weight Range
17-23 lbs
♂ Male: 23-23 lbs
♀ Female: 17-17 lbs
Height Range
34-42 inches
♂ Male: 15-17"
♀ Female: 15-17"
Life Expectancy
13-16 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #52
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Non-Sporting Group
Originally bred for Ancient Japanese breed from mountainous regions, dating back to 300 BC
Popularity
#44
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 14.5"-16.5" |
| Female Height | 14.5"-16.5" |
| Male Weight | 23-23 lbs |
| Female Weight | 17-17 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,400-2,500 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses average $100-150 for food, supplies. Annual veterinary care ranges $500-800, with additional costs for grooming and training.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and attentive with strong independent streak. Moderate energy levels requiring regular exercise. Shows reserve with strangers while maintaining loyal family bonds. Natural hunting instincts and strong prey drive influence behavior.
Social Needs
Moderate social requirements with strong bonds to family. Can be aloof with strangers and selective with other dogs. Tolerates alone time well when properly trained and exercised.
Breed Overview
Spirited and independent, the Shiba Inu showcases a compact, muscular build with a distinctive fox-like appearance. Their double coat features a straight outer layer and soft undercoat, typically displaying rich red, cream, or sesame coloring. Alert triangular ears, dark almond eyes, and a confident bearing reflect their ancient Japanese heritage and hunting prowess.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Independent nature
- ✓ Clean and fastidious
- ✓ Minimal grooming needs
- ✓ Excellent watchdog
- ✓ Apartment-friendly size
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Stubborn personality
- ✗ Challenging to train
- ✗ May be aggressive with other dogs
- ✗ Prone to escaping
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Alert, Active, Attentive |
| Energy Level | Regular Exercise |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 45-60 minutes of daily exercise through brisk walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate intensity level with bursts of high energy, particularly enjoying agility exercises and interactive games.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Shibas need 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Requires protein-rich diet with moderate fat content. Watch for food allergies and maintain consistent feeding schedule.
Feed 1-1.5 cups high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich formulas appropriate for size and activity level. Monitor weight closely as breed can become overweight easily.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to apartment living with sufficient exercise. Thrives in spaces with secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Tolerates various climates but needs protection in extreme weather.
Requires minimal space but needs secure fencing. Adapts well to apartment living with adequate exercise. Thrives in environments with outdoor access for regular activity and mental stimulation.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in Japan's mountainous regions as a hunting dog for small game and birds. Among the oldest dog breeds, Shibas nearly faced extinction during World War II but were saved through careful breeding programs.
Historical Purpose
Ancient Japanese breed from mountainous regions, dating back to 300 BC. Served as a skilled hunter of small game and birds in dense undergrowth of Japan's mountainous areas.
Fun Fact
Shibas are known for their unique 'Shiba scream' - a high-pitched vocalization when excited or unhappy.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires secure fencing due to escape tendencies. Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular brushing during shedding seasons essential.