Shiba Inu — breed guide
A small Japanese hunting breed with a famously independent mind.
At a glance
- Group
- non-sporting
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 7–11 kg (15–24 lb)
- Life span
- 13–16 years
- Coat
- Stiff double coat; dramatic seasonal blow
Living with a Shiba Inu
- High energy — needs real exercise every day, not a stroll.
- Regular grooming — brushing a few times a week.
- Constant heavy shedding.
- Can be stubborn.
- Quiet.
- Good with children.
- Not always easy with other dogs — introduce carefully.
- Not a safe bet with cats — this is prey drive rather than a training problem.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- Better with previous experience behind you.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Built for cold weather.
Temperament
Independent · Dignified · Alert · Cat-like
Health to watch
- Luxating patella
- Allergies
- Glaucoma
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
The "Shiba scream" is a real and startling noise, usually reserved for nail clipping.
Questions people ask
Is a Shiba Inu good with kids?
Generally yes. Shiba Inus are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Shiba Inu good with cats?
Usually not. This is prey drive rather than a training problem — a cat that runs can trigger it in a dog that is otherwise impeccably behaved.
How much exercise does a Shiba Inu need?
An hour or more of proper exercise every day.
Can a Shiba Inu handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Shiba Inu's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.