Dr. James Watuwa
Last updated: 1st March 2026
Shiba Inu
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Dr. Watuwa James (MSc. WHM ,BVM) boasts a notable six-year track record in the care and management of diverse species, especially Wild Animels ,Dogs ,Cats and More.
Dr. James Watuwa
Last updated: 1st March 2026
The Shiba Inu is a hunting dog of the Japanese breed and the oldest of the six Spitz dogs that originated in Japan. These days they are among the most popular pet dog in Japan and the United States. They are small to medium-sized, muscular dogs with fox-like faces, small upright ears, spirited personalities, and cat-like agility.
Shiba Inu Pictures
Quick Information
| Other Names | Japanese Shiba Inu, Japanese Small Size Dog, Japanese Brushwood Dog, Shiba Ken, Shibe |
| Coat | Double and thick |
| Color | Black and tan, cream, red, red sesame |
| Breed Type | Spitz |
| Group | Non-sporting dogs |
| Life expectancy | 12 – 15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Height | Males: 14.5 – 16.5 inches Females: 13.5 – 15.5 inches |
| Weight | Males: 23 pounds Females: 17 pounds |
| Litter Size | 3 puppies on average |
| Behavioral characteristics | Independent, athletic, alert, loyal |
| Good with Children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Low |
| Climate Compatibility | Well-adapted to cold climates |
| Apartment Compatibility | Good |
| Do they shed | Moderately |
| Are they Hypoallergenic | No |
| Trainability | High |
| How much do they cost | Full registration pups cost $2000-$3500. Limited registration from reputable breeders costs between $1400 – $2200. |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | American Kennel Club |
| Country | Japan |
History and Origin
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese dog breed that hunters used to flush out small game and birds. In Japanese, ‘Shiba’ means ‘Brushwood,’ and ‘Inu’ means ‘Dog.’ Their name Shiba refers to brushwood, where they previously hunted. Also, their fiery red coat matches the autumn color of the brushwood leaves.
Earlier, they lived in the mountainous areas of the Chubu region. During the Meiji Restoration, western dog breeds were imported and crossed with the native Japanese breeds, including the Shiba Inu. As a result, from 1912 to 1926, they almost became extinct, with efforts to protect the remaining pure Shiba taken by hunters and intellectuals from 1928 onwards.
Despite the protection efforts, Shiba Inus nearly became extinct by the end of World War II due to wartime deprivations. The few who survived were rescued from the remote countryside and interbred to produce the modern-day Shiba Inu. Today, they are the number one companion pet in Japan.
Temperament and Personality
Shiba Inus are playful and loyal with strong personalities. Despite being trainable and obedient, they have a mind of their own. Their stubborn and independent streak makes them challenging to handle, but with proper training and control, they can be great companions.
They are friendly and easygoing with their owners but are aloof towards strangers and other dogs. Confident and alert, they can protect a household as guard dogs. When unhappy, they make a strange sound known as ‘Shiba Inu Scream,’ which differs from barking.
Care
Exercise
These dogs are not crazy about exercise, but it is good to take them for a walk every day for an hour or more. They enjoy dog sports like flyball, tracking, competitive herding, and lure coursing.
Grooming
Because of their thick coat, Shiba Inus shed twice a year. They need brushing twice a week with a rake brush. In summer, excess hair should be removed from the body to prevent overheating. Their nails should be clipped once a month and they should be taken for dental cleaning annually.
Health Problems
Shibu Inus are a healthy breed that seldom suffers from illnesses but are prone to developing certain diseases like obesity, glaucoma, hip dysplasia, and allergies.
Feeding
These dogs eat high-quality commercial dog foods. They can eat both wet and dry food. Though they don’t need any special diet, it is advisable to consult a vet to decide on their diet based on age, lifestyle, and individual needs.
Training
Despite being an intelligent breed, their stubborn nature makes training challenging. Rewards and treats encourage them to learn faster.
Socialization: These dogs are naturally unfriendly and aloof towards other dogs, so they should be socialized more when they are puppies. Taking them to dog parks, doggy daycare, scheduling regular play sessions with other dogs, and obedience classes help them to bond well with other dogs. Early socialization can ease aggression and curb their wilder instincts, making them appropriate family pets.
Leash: Leash training should begin when they are eight weeks old. A medium-sized harness for adults and extra small ones for puppies should be used. Proper leash training is essential because of their hunting instincts. They should always be kept on a leash as they easily get restless when they spot prey.
Specific ground rules must be laid and strictly followed in the training session. Rewarding them with occasional training treats can encourage them to learn quickly.
