Shiba Inu

Sep 18, 2024

Introduction to the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is one of the oldest and most popular dog breeds from Japan. Originally bred as a hunting dog, the Shiba Inu is now mainly kept as a companion dog. With its fox-like appearance, lively personality and independence, it has won the hearts of many dog lovers worldwide. The name ‘Shiba Inu’ translates as ‘little dog of the undergrowth’, which indicates its origin and role as a hunting companion.

Appearance of the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a compact, muscular and well-proportioned dog. It has a wedge-shaped head with pointed ears that are always erect and signal alertness. Their almond-shaped eyes give them a watchful and often curious expression. They have a strong, but not too bulky, build, which gives them agility and speed. Their back is straight and their typically curled tail gives them an additional charm. Overall, the Shiba Inu exudes strength, agility and elegance.

Coat and colours of the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu's coat is dense and weatherproof, consisting of a soft undercoat and a hard, straight top coat. Typical colours of the Shiba Inu are red, sesame (a mixture of red and black hairs), black and tan and white (cream). The red variety is the most common and is considered the ‘classic’ colour of the breed. Many Shiba Inus also have white markings on their chest, paws and face, known as ‘urajiro’, which is a distinctive feature of this breed.

How big can a Shiba Inu get

Shiba Inus are considered small to medium-sized dogs. Males reach a shoulder height of about 38 to 41 cm, while females are slightly smaller and grow to about 35 to 38 cm. Weight varies depending on gender and individual build, but is usually between 8 and 12 kg.

The character of the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is known for its independent and sometimes stubborn character. It is brave, self-confident and often displays a strong sense of loyalty towards its family. At the same time, it can also be aloof and independent, which sometimes makes it difficult to train. Despite its independence, it is also very alert and often reserved around strangers. Shiba Inus are also known for their so-called ‘Shiba scream’ – a piercing sound they often make when they are excited or dissatisfied.

Training the Shiba Inu

Training a Shiba Inu requires patience, consistency and a lot of empathy. Due to its independent nature, it can sometimes be stubborn and difficult to train. It is important to start socialisation and training early on so that the Shiba Inu learns to follow clear rules and to listen to its owners. Positive reinforcement is key here, as force or harsh methods are counterproductive and can damage the dog's trust.

Who is the Shiba Inu suitable for

A Shiba Inu is not suitable for every dog owner. Due to its strong character and independence, it is more recommended for experienced dog owners who already have knowledge in dog training. People who can spend a lot of patience and time on training and are willing to accept the special personality of this dog will find a loyal companion in the Shiba Inu.

Is the Shiba Inu a family dog

The Shiba Inu can live in a family, but it is more suitable for families with older children who respect the dog and understand that it sometimes wants to be left alone. Smaller children may be overwhelmed by the independence and boisterous nature of the Shiba Inu. Nevertheless, it is loyal to its family and, with the right training, can become a loving family member.

Grooming the Shiba Inu

Grooming a Shiba Inu is relatively easy because its coat naturally stays clean and hardly develops a strong odour. Regular brushing helps to remove loose hair and keep the coat healthy and shiny. During the moulting season, which usually occurs twice a year, the dog should be brushed more frequently to minimise hair loss. Their ears, teeth and claws should also be checked regularly and cleaned or trimmed as needed.

Nutrition of the Shiba Inu

As with all dogs, a balanced diet is important for the health of the Shiba Inu. High-quality dog food that is rich in protein and vitamins forms the basis of their diet. The Shiba Inu tends to be fussy, so it's advisable to choose a food that they like and that meets their nutritional needs. Snacks and treats should be used sparingly, as the Shiba Inu can easily gain weight, which can cause health problems.

How much does a Shiba Inu shed

Shiba Inus shed moderately all year round, but they can shed a lot during the moulting season, which occurs in spring and autumn. During this time, they lose their undercoat and need more grooming. However, regular brushing can help to keep the shedding under control.

How old does a Shiba Inu

A Shiba Inu usually has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. With good care, the right nutrition and regular veterinary visits, the Shiba Inu can also grow older and lead an active and healthy life.

Typical diseases of the Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus are generally robust dogs, but they are prone to some breed-specific diseases. These include hip dysplasia, patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap) and eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma. Allergies and skin problems can also occur in this breed. Regular check-ups at the vet are important to detect health problems early.

How much does a Shiba Inu puppy cost

A Shiba Inu puppy from a reputable breeder will usually cost between CHF 1500.00 and CHF 2500.00, depending on its origin, pedigree and breeding quality. Cheaper offers should be viewed with caution, as they often come from less reputable breeders who do not provide appropriate health care.

What to look out for when buying a Shiba Inu

When buying a Shiba Inu, it is important to choose a reputable breeder. They should be willing to provide health test results for the parents and ensure that the puppies have been well socialised and raised in a clean environment. It is important that the puppy spends sufficient time with its mother and siblings in order to develop healthy social behaviour. In addition, the breeder should be able to answer questions about the character and needs of the Shiba Inu.

Characteristics of the Shiba Inu

Origin: Japan
Size: 35-41 cm
Weight: 8-12 kg
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Coat colours: red, sesame, black and tan, white
Character : Self-confident, independent, loyal, alert
Grooming requirements: Moderate (more intense during the moult)
Suitable for: Experienced dog owners, active people, families with older children
Special features: Fox-like appearance, ‘Shiba cry’, idiosyncratic personality