They are so different from any other breed and are not everyone’s cup of tea. We want to make sure our potential Shiba family is fully prepared for the amount of sassy attitude this fluffy diva will bring with them.

Below are several of the unique characteristics of this “big dog in a small body” that can make this breed a challenge to the average dog owner.

They are dominant with other dogs and do not usually get along well with other "bossy" dogs of the same sex. They will, however, get along great with another dog or cat that agrees the Shiba is boss.

Shibas can be runners. The Shiba Inu is a natural hunter. Given a chance they will take off in search of game. It is advisable to never trust your Shiba off lead unless in a fenced yard. The Shibas least favorite word is "come." They will usually take your number and get back to you, when called.

Shibas have a mind of their own. While it is possible to obedience train a Shiba, it is a challenge. Tell them to sit and they will sit....if there is something in it for them and is convenient at the time.

Shibas always like to be in charge. Their favorite word is "mine."

Although not "barky" dogs, they do yodel and scream anytime they feel they are being “violated” such as nail trimming, bathing and leash training.

They are a double coated breed that sheds once or twice a year.

If these facts have not discouraged you, then maybe this is the dog for you. Let me tell you about the wonderful side of this beautiful, little breed.

Shibas are a relatively healthy and sturdy breed. Their life span is anywhere from 12 to 15 years or more.

They housebreak very easy, usually in just days.

Shibas are very much a big dog in a little package. They are known for their extreme loyalty to their family. Shibas are very intelligent, proud, and dignified.

Shibas are both active and adaptable animals. They enjoy hearty romps in the backyard, but do well in apartment life, as long as the owner does not mind an occasional round of "Shiba 500" in the living room.

Shibas are extremely people-oriented and require a fair amount of love and attention from their owners to be happy. They are best kept as inside house dogs.

Shibas are very clean and cat -like. They will actually clean themselves and each other. They have very little doggie odor and only need light brushing and an occasional bath.

Shibas are usually very good when raised with children, although it is extremely important to teach children in the family to not tease and torment the dog. This is for both the safety of the child and dog.

Shibas can be good watch dogs and will often be seen perched on high objects in order to keep an eye on things. Such as the back of the couch, picnic tables, etc.

One more thing you must know about the Shiba is that they are habit forming and most people can't stop with just one. There is no known cure.

Size

Our Shiba’s mature anywhere from 18-35 pounds.

Phoenix is steady weigh in at 22 lbs

Drakon is steady weigh in at 19 lbs

Lotus is steady weigh in at 26 lbs

Coloring

The difference in how these puppies mature is so unique!

Both born out of our first litter with Phoenix and Drakon, you can see how similar they were as puppies. But look at the adult difference!

OREO, Black & Tan

SHINOBI, Soft Tri

Below, both were born out of our first litter with Lotus and Drakon.

KEBIN, Cream with red points

NORI, Cream

Blowing Their Coat

With proper diet and regular grooming, a Shiba does not shed as much as your typical double coated dogs. They do, however, shed (or blow) their undercoat completely once or twice a year. Shiba’s are slightly OCD when it comes to keeping themselves clean, so baths are not necessary very often, but during the season of coat blowing a good brush will help quicken the furry season.

(This is the link to our favorite de-shedding brush)

Our Shiba's love kids! We ensure that the puppies, once old enough, are acclimated to children as well as other animals (cats, bigger dogs, livestock, etc). Teaching a child the proper way to interact with a dog is very important, though Shiba’s are patient they can only tolerate so much, like any other animal. We recommend giving them a “Safe Space” an area (kennel, room, bed) that is their’s only. This helps for children as well as other pets. Giving them a place to go that they can get away and just decompress.

Below are some creative ideas on ways to do that:

How to Create a Private Space for Your Dog

Whether it’s because you want a place for your dog to rest, a safe place for your dog when you go out, or simply to give your dog a comfortable space of their own, there is often a good reason to designate a space specifically for your dog. Giving your dog a private space can help them feel secure, comfortable, and more at ease in the house. It can also give them a retreat if you have multiple dogs. Setting up a private space for your dog can be easy. Simply designate the space in your home, outfit it with a crate or bed, toys, and water, and let your dog enjoy their new private space.

The Houdini

Take a look at a Husky, easily double the size of a Shiba, fit through this gate.

Basic rule of thumb, if they can fit snout to eyes in the space, they will get the rest of their body through.

The Prey Drive

Shiba Inu = Little Brush Dog.

These pups have a high prey drive, meaning a secure yard, harness, or leash is a must. This does not mean it is forever; with constant and relentless training, off leash is possible. Just take a look at this example video of a well trained Shiba.

Spay/Neuter

Fixing your dog prevents pregnancy and the birth of unwanted puppies. It avoids the need to restrain the dog during estrus. It keeps both sexes from roaming away from your house in search of a mate. It reduces the tendency of male dogs to urinate in the house.

Additionally, it avoids reproductive-related problems such as tumors, pyrometra, false pregnancy, prostate infections, and reduces the risk of developing reproductive related cancers.

We do sell all of our puppies under limited registration and with a spay/neuter contract to ensure our puppies can live their best pet life!

Here are some blogs from our vet:

https://winnievet.com/2019/10/03/spaying-and-neutering/

https://winnievet.com/services/neutering/

Average Annual Expences