Description

The Shiba Inu with its outgoing personality, convenient size, and good nature has made him the most common pet in the Japan. Growing in popularity worldwide it has only been in recent years that Shiba Inu has been seen out of its native land. Though Shiba Inu may be difficult to train, if handled with consistent firm training they will respond well. The Shiba Inu is not a dog for the faint-hearted as they are large animals in a small body. Shiba Inu are loyal and possess a good sense of what you are feeling. They need to have human interaction and should not be left alone in the back yard. Unique vocal sounds are made by this breed. It usually only barks when it has a reason to bark.

Size of Male: Height: 14.5-16.5 inches Weight: 20-30 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 13.5-15.5 inches Weight: 20-30 pounds

Temperament

The Shiba Inu is an alert, lively and bold dog. Shiba Inu is independent, but affectionate and loving. Shiba Inu is kind, trainable, brave and clean. Confident, fearless and courageous. A big dog in a small dog’s body. The Shiba is agile, fast and playful. Charming and open. They bark little and bond closely with their handler while remaining independent. It may be a bit reserved with strangers but children do not usually cause any problems, for Shiba Inu make good companions for children. Socialize this breed well as a puppy. They do well with other dogs and cats if they are raised with them from puppyhood, though they tend to be aggressive with members of the same sex. Don’t trust this dog around other small pets such as rodents and small birds. Big birds such as parrots may be okay. The Shiba is an easy dog to travel with. Be careful during hunting season as the dog looks like a fox and may be mistaken for one. It is not usually a reliable off-leash dog. It is easy to housebreak these dogs because they are naturally fastidious.

Living Conditions

The Shiba Inu will do okay in an apartment if is sufficiently exercised. Shiba Inu is moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. The waterproof, all-weather coat of Shiba Inu protects it in both cold and hot conditions, so it can live outdoors if you have a secure yard of reasonable size. However, it does regard itself as part of the family and does not like to be left alone outside. This breed would be much happier living indoors with its family.

Upkeep

The Shiba Inu needs a daily workout, either in the form of a vigorous game in the yard, a long walk or a good run in a safe area. Shiba Inu can live outdoors in temperate or cool climates, given warm shelter, but it does best when allowed to divide its time between inside and out. The double coat of Shiba Inu needs brushing one or two times weekly, more when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: patellar luxation

Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years