The Shiba Inu is a fearless and bold dog. Originally from Japan, this smaller dog keeps herself clean, almost like a cat. She may not be trustable with other pets and dogs. She does well with older children, especially if socialized when young. She needs plenty of exercise but can live in an apartment with frequent walks. Known as an escape artist, she can tend to roam once free. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.



*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male boxer is to inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and to pounds. The female ranges from to inches to the withers and to pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Shiba Inu is no exception. Be on the look out for teeth problems, patella luxation and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Shiba Inu has a double coat. The inner coat is thick and soft. The outer coat is straight, short and coarse. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Shiba Inu can live between 13 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Shiba Inu come from Japan where they were used as a hunting dog. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1997.

Some Registries:

*National Shiba Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 3 Shiba Inu puppies

Category: Non-Sporting

Terms To Describe: Compact, muscular, bold, good nature, dignity, independent, loyal, affectionate, lively, alert, clean, fearless

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Not a barker

Keeps itself clean.

Easy to housebreak.

Good watch dog.

Good guard dog.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

May not get along well with other dogs.

Tends to roam.

Can be aggressive.

Some say not a childrens pet.

Can be an escape artist.

*Other Names Known By: Brushwood Dog,

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.