Is it a fox? Is it a cat? Heck, is it a red panda? No, it’s the Shiba Inu - the oldest and smallest of Japan’s dogs. This ancient breed is a small, well-muscled hunter but these days is most commonly found as a beloved companion dog. Good-natured yet aloof with those they don’t know, Shibas are spirited dogs who do best with a confident, experienced owner who can help this beautiful dog become a well-mannered member of the family.
Shibu Inu Facts
Shiba Inus are the most popular dog breed in Japan, with a history that goes all the way back to 300 BC. Bred to be hunting dogs in the rugged mountains of Japan, their name in English means ‘Brushwood Dog’ (brushwood either being the brush in the mountains or the dog’s reddish colour).
- Breed Group: Non-sporting
- Height: Female: 34cm - 39cm; Male: 36cm - 41cm
- Weight: Female: 7kg; Male: 10kg
- Life Span: 13 - 16 years
- Coat: Short, double
- Colour: Black and tan, cream or red
What Does a Shiba Inu Look Like?
Is it a dog or a fox? You’d be forgiven for thinking you’re looking at a fox when you first spot a Shiba Inu. That’s because they’ve got a reddish coat with white markings, a bushy tail that extends over their back and furry, pointy ears.
Once you’re over their fox-like appearance, you might notice that Shibu Inus look like they’re always smiling, which is thanks to their short, compact muzzles. Their dark brown eyes give them an alert and attentive look.
These small dogs are sturdy and muscular and are covered by a short, double coat that they shed twice a year.
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu Temperament: Aloof and Independent
Not only does a Shiba Inu look a little like a fox, they sometimes have the temperament of a cat - they’re known for being aloof, independent and even a little cold towards strangers and unknown dogs. That’s not to say they’re not friendly and loving towards their humans (they are), but they’re not super affectionate or snuggly goofballs. Instead, they’ll happily hold you at paw’s length until they deem you worthy of their time.
Packing bold, confident personalities into their pint-sized bodies, Shiba Inus are best suited to experienced dog owners who can properly socialise and train them. This rarely tips into aggression though (aloofness, yes). Good-natured pups, Shiba Inus can learn to live with children, especially older ones. But you’ll probably never find them romping through the garden together.
With their strong independent streak, Shibas should never be trusted off-leash, unless it’s in a fully secure and fenced area. The world is just far too interesting for a Shiba, and their listening ears can be quickly turned off if they spot something worth smelling or chasing.
Something that’s unique to the Shiba Inu is what’s been dubbed “the Shiba Inu scream”. As independent dogs, Shibas aren’t shy about letting you know when they’re displeased with something (normally nail clips, baths and vet trips) or when they don’t want to do something. Used more often than a bark, a Shiba will let rip with a ‘scream’. This high-pitched whining vocalisation is best described as a cross between a cat and a human baby crying.
Keeping Shiba Inus Healthy: 3 Issues to Watch Out For
Shiba Inus have a long expected life-span of 13 to 16 years. By being aware of these health issues, you can take proactive steps to keep them healthy and happy. It’s also important to keep up with regular flea and worm treatments.
Allergies
Shibas are prone to allergies. Symptoms normally start once your puppy is at least 6 months old and include itchy skin, feet or ears. There can be a range of reasons for allergies, like certain food or environmental issues (think pollen or dust). Allergies can be easily managed through diet changes and medication. Red more here.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma causes blindness if it isn’t caught early and Shiba Inus are at risk of developing it. A painful condition, it causes pressure to build up inside the eye. Signs of glaucoma include a cloudy or red eye, a dilated pupil, squinting or blinking more, and watery eye discharge. A Shiba might also suffer from lethargy or show signs of pain in their eyes by flinching or turning away if you touch the side of their head. Although there’s no cure, glaucoma can be treated through medication or surgery, unless it’s too advanced. The good news is that in Shibas glaucoma tends to be hereditary, so responsible breeders should screen for it. Plus, dogs normally adapt well and quickly to being blind and still lead full, long, happy lives.
Hip Dysplasia
Another hereditary condition, hip dysplasia means the hip joints don’t form correctly, leading to pain, irritation and mobility problems. It’s especially problematic if a Shiba is overweight. It can be treated with weight management, physical therapy or surgery, depending on how severe it is.
Caring for Your Shiba Inu Dog
Although a Shiba Inu doesn’t need a lot of grooming or exercise, they do need plenty of training and socialisation.
Grooming
Grooming a Shiba depends on the time of year. Shiba Inus shed their coats twice a year, during spring and autumn. During shedding season, you’ll need to brush them at least twice a week. A rake brush can help get rid of the loose hair, as can a hair dryer. If it’s not shedding season, their short double coat can be managed with a weekly slicker brush.
Leaning into their cat-like personalities, Shibas are self-grooming which means baths should be kept to a minimum (especially if you don’t want that scream unleashed!). Only bathe them if they’ve played in something muddy or disgusting.
Like all dogs, work up to brushing your Shiba’s teeth daily, to keep their mouth and gums healthy. Shibas are known to really hate having their nails clipped (and they aren’t afraid to let you know their displeasure!). Start from puppyhood so they get used to it very early on. If it becomes a big struggle, let a professional do it.
Nutrition
Shiba Inus don’t have any special dietary needs, they’ll do well on quality commercial dog food that’s suitable for their life stage: puppy, adult or senior. Some Shibas will happily chow down on anything, others can be a bit picky so you might need to try a few dog food brands.
Shibas can be prone to getting overweight. Even a little excess weight can lead to long-term health problems so keep an eye on how many calories they’re getting each day, especially from treats.
Exercise
Alert and athletic dogs, Shibas love walks. Their exercise needs aren’t massively high, although you’ll still need to make sure they’re moving every day. If you skip a day, a Shiba isn’t so hyperactive that they’re going to destroy your home!
Taking them for one leisurely neighbourhood stroll a day should be fine for most Shibas, especially if you have a fully fenced and secure garden where they can exercise themselves for a bit too. Shibas enjoy fun exercise and showing off their agility, so stock up on outdoor toys that you can play with together, like fetch or tug of war.
Training Your Shiba Inu
Even with years of training, a Shiba Inu can’t be trusted off-leash - the world is simply too fascinating for a Shiba to ignore. If they spot any gap in the fence or open gate, they’ll barrel through. Make lead training a priority with a Shiba so they get comfortable and confident being on-lead from puppyhood.
It’s important to properly socialise a Shiba. Because of their aloofness and independent streak, a Shiba needs to learn that meeting new people and pets and visiting new places is fun and positive. They can be wary of strangers, so work on building their confidence at seeing people and animals at a distance before letting them approach.
Shiba Inu puppies should be introduced to being handled by people. Some adult Shibas can be really difficult with vets or groomers and may be vocal or aggressive if they’re not used to being handled.
Although they’re smart dogs, Shibas are also strong-willed and independent. This can make training them tricky, especially if you’re a first-time dog owner. Shiba Inus can benefit from training with a professional who can help you both learn how to bring out their full potential.