Shiba Inu
A bold, fox-like free spirit.
The Shiba Inu is a small, fox-like Japanese breed with a bold, independent personality and a famously clean nature. Spirited and aloof, it is loyal to its family but very much its own dog.
Great points
- Clean and almost cat-like
- Bold, alert and confident
- Long lifespan
- Compact and sturdy
Things to consider
- Stubborn and independent
- Strong prey drive
- Aloof with strangers and dogs
- Dramatic when upset
The story
One of Japan's ancient native breeds, the Shiba Inu was bred to hunt small game in mountainous terrain. It nearly vanished after World War II but recovered to become a beloved companion at home and online.
Training
Shibas are smart but headstrong and independent, so training takes patience, early socialisation and high-value rewards, and recall is unreliable, so keep them leashed or fenced.
Grooming
Brush the thick double coat weekly, and daily during the heavy twice-yearly shed. Shibas are naturally clean and odor-free.
Food & diet
About 0.75 to 1.5 cups of quality food a day, split into two meals.
Exercise
Moderate to high. Daily walks and play keep them fit and curb boredom-driven mischief.
Health to watch
Generally very healthy, but watch for allergies, luxating patella and eye conditions.
Fun fact. The Shiba Inu became a global internet icon and inspired the doge meme and several cryptocurrencies.
