Shiba Inu Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Shiba Inu is a small, agile Japanese hunting dog with a fox-like face, a curled tail and an unmistakable attitude. It is clean, alert and very independent, which makes it fascinating to live with and demanding to train.

Origins and appearance

The Shiba is the smallest of the native Japanese spitz breeds, originally used to flush birds and small game in mountainous terrain. The breed nearly vanished during the Second World War, and was rebuilt from surviving bloodlines. Shibas are compact and muscular, with a dense double coat in red, sesame, black and tan or cream, a curled tail and a distinctive white pattern on the face called urajiro.

Temperament

Shibas are bold, confident and independent. They are often described as catlike: clean, aloof and selective with affection. They can be reserved with strangers and dominant with other dogs, particularly of the same sex. They have a strong prey drive. Many guard food and toys. They are loyal to their families but dislike being restrained or handled roughly.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with brisk walks and play. They enjoy sniffing, hiking and games. A secure, tall fence is vital, and a leash outside is essential, since a Shiba that sees something interesting may bolt and ignore recall. They are known for the Shiba scream, a high-pitched protest when handled against their wishes.

Training

They are intelligent but stubborn and easily bored. Use high-value treats, short sessions and early socialization. Handle paws, ears and mouth from puppyhood. Teach trade games to prevent guarding. Do not expect off-leash reliability. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The double coat sheds heavily twice a year, and lightly the rest of the time. Brush several times a week and daily during shedding. See double coat dog grooming guide. Shibas are clean and rarely smell. Trim nails and brush teeth. Do not shave.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Allergies and skin conditions. See dog skin allergies
• Glaucoma and other eye conditions
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Patellar luxation. See luxating patella in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Obesity. See dog obesity risks

Living with a Shiba Inu

They suit homes and apartments if exercised, and experienced or patient owners. They may not suit households with small pets.

A typical day

A Shiba's day includes a morning walk, a rest, some enrichment and an evening walk. They often choose a spot with a view and watch the world. They enjoy puzzles and sniffing, but dislike being forced into things.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and strong-willed. Begin socialization, handling and training early. Introduce crate and grooming gently. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, grooming tools, secure fencing and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well in a secure crate or harness, and should never be loose near open doors.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include trusting off-leash recall, skipping socialization, forcing handling and shaving the coat.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about eye, hip and patella testing, and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and look for breeders who socialize carefully.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Shiba suits patient, independent-minded owners who admire a clean, bold, aloof dog. It may not suit people wanting a eager-to-please companion or off-leash hiking partner. For a fluffier spitz, see the American Eskimo Dog.

The takeaway

Shibas are bold, clean and independent, and they need early socialization, secure fencing and patience.