Japanese Shiba Inu Breed Guide

Dec 03, 2024

Meet the Shiba Inu, the pint-sized adventurer from Japan that’s as famous for its sass as it is for its looks. With their fox-like faces, perky ears, and curled tails, Shiba Inus are a perfect blend of beauty and brains. They’re independent, bold, and charmingly aloof— the cool, mysterious type at the party that everyone wants to know.

But don’t let their small size fool you. Shibas are incredibly agile and energetic, always ready for a new adventure or a game of chase. While they might not always be the most affectionate dogs (hugs? No, thanks), they’ll show their love in their own unique way, like standing guard by your side or curling up nearby with their signature cat-like grace.

THE BASICS:

Category: Non Sporting Group
Size: Small (8-10 kg)
Exercise Needs: 1-2 hours per day with controlled off-leash activity
Grooming: Moderate
Coat: Double coat, thick and plush, often fox-red, black and tan, or sesame
Shedding: Moderate to heavy
Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, allergies
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Home Needs: Secure garden, and lots of mental stimulation
Sociability: Loyal and affectionate with family, independent and aloof with strangers, often cautious with other pets

HISTORY: JAPAN’S LITTLE LIONHEARTED HUNTER

The Shiba Inu is one of Japan’s oldest and smallest native breeds, originally bred to hunt small game like birds and rabbits in the mountainous regions of Japan. Their name “Shiba” means “brushwood” in Japanese, a nod to the terrain they hunted in, and “Inu” simply means dog. So, essentially, the Shiba Inu is Japan’s “brushwood dog,” built for agility, speed, and navigating tough terrain.

During World War II, the Shiba nearly went extinct due to bombings and disease outbreaks, but a dedicated breeding program revived the breed in the post-war years. Today, they’re the most popular companion dog in Japan, beloved for their independent spirit and striking looks.

SHIBA INU PERSONALITY: FEARLESS, INDEPENDENT, AND FULL OF SASS

If there’s one word to describe the Shiba Inu, it’s independent. These dogs have a mind of their own and aren’t afraid to use it. They’re known for their stubbornness and self-confidence, which means training a Shiba can sometimes feel like negotiating with a tiny, fluffy dictator. But beneath that independent streak is a dog that’s fiercely loyal and protective of their family—just on their terms.

Though aloof around strangers, Shibas form unbreakable bonds with their families, becoming lifelong companions. Don’t expect them to be a clingy, lapdog—they prefer to keep their distance, observing from their favourite spot while still keeping an eye on you. They’re also known for being incredibly clean, often compared to cats in their grooming habits.

And don’t be surprised if you hear the famous “Shiba scream” when your dog is unhappy or excited—it’s their dramatic way of letting you know exactly how they feel!

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A JAPANESE SHIBA INU NEED?

Don’t let their small size fool you—Shiba Inus are bundles of energy and need regular exercise to stay happy. They require at least 1-2 hours of exercise a day, whether it’s a brisk walk, a run in the park, or playtime in a secure garden. Shibas are agile and quick, making them great at dog sports like agility or even scent work. However, be cautious when letting them off-leash, as their independent nature and strong prey drive mean they might dash off after a squirrel faster than you can call their name.

Because of their intelligence, Shibas also need plenty of mental stimulation. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and games that challenge their sharp minds are essential to keep them from getting bored (and into trouble). A bored Shiba is a mischievous Shiba, and you might find yourself wondering how your clever pup managed to turn the living room into their personal playground!

Pro tip: After a long day of exercise, reward your Shiba with Scrumbles Dog Food—packed with the nutrients they need to stay fit and healthy.

HOW TO GROOM A SHIBA INU: LOW MAINTENANCE, HIGH DRAMA (DURING SHEDDING SEASON)

The Shiba Inu’s plush, double coat is designed to protect them from harsh weather, but it also means they shed—sometimes a lot. Twice a year, during shedding season (hello, spring and autumn), they blow their coat, and you’ll find tufts of floof decorating your home like confetti after a party. During these times, daily brushing is essential to keep the fur under control.

Outside of shedding season, a good brush once a week should suffice. Shibas are naturally clean dogs, and much like cats, they groom themselves frequently. They don’t require frequent baths, and because of their self-grooming nature, their coat has little to no odour. However, make sure to check their ears, trim their nails regularly, and, of course, keep those pearly whites clean with Scrumbles Gnashers Dental Dog Treats.

HEALTH: STURDY, BUT KEEP AN EYE ON THEIR KNEES

Shiba Inus are generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to a few health issues, including hip dysplasia and patellar luxation (knee problems). Keeping your Shiba at a healthy weight and providing moderate exercise is key to preventing joint problems. They can also suffer from allergies, which may cause itching or discomfort, so regular check-ups with the vet are important.

With their bright eyes and fox-like appearance, Shibas are also prone to certain eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which affects their vision over time. Regular eye checks and a balanced diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as Scrumbles Salmon Wet Dog Food, can help support their overall health.

FUN FACTS ABOUT THE SHIBA INU:

Drama Queens: Shibas are known for the “Shiba scream”—a high-pitched, dramatic sound they make when they’re upset, excited, or just being… well, dramatic.
Fox-Like Features: With their pointy ears, curled tails, and reddish coats, Shibas have an unmistakable fox-like appearance that turns heads wherever they go.
Independent Minds: Shibas are incredibly independent and are known for their stubbornness. They love to do things their way, so expect a few “negotiations” during training.

LIVING WITH A SHIBA INU: SPIRITED, INDEPENDENT, AND FULL OF CHARACTER

Living with a Shiba Inu is like living with a tiny fox that has the heart of a lion. They’re independent, confident, and full of character, often behaving more like a cat than a dog. While they’re affectionate with their family, they tend to be more reserved and aloof with strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.

Shibas are best suited for experienced dog owners who appreciate their independent nature and are willing to put in the time for consistent training and socialisation. They thrive in homes where they can be part of the action but still have their own space to retreat to when they need some alone time.

If you’re looking for a fiercely loyal dog that’s as independent as they are affectionate (on their terms, of course), the Shiba Inu could be your perfect match.

IS THE SHIBA INU THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOU?

If you’re looking for a dog that’s confident, intelligent, and full of personality, the Shiba Inu might just be your perfect fit. They’re ideal for individuals or families who understand their independent nature and can provide the exercise and mental stimulation they need.

Shibas thrive in homes where they have plenty of space to run and explore but are also content to settle down for a quiet evening. With the right training, socialisation, and a balanced diet from Scrumbles, your Shiba will be a healthy, happy, and loyal companion for years to come.

Why Scrumbles is Perfect for Shiba Inu's

Scrumbles is the ideal choice for Japanese Shiba Inu owners for several reasons:

High-Quality Ingredients: Shibas are spirited little dynamos, and to keep up with their boundless energy, they need top-notch nutrition. Scrumbles uses only high-quality, natural ingredients, steering clear of artificial nasties and fillers to ensure your Shiba thrives.
Coat and Skin Health: With their luxurious, double-layered coats, Shibas need nutrition that keeps their fur soft, shiny, and shed-tastic. Scrumbles’ recipes are enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a gleaming coat. We've got just the thing to help: Scrumbles Salmon Dry Dog Food or Salmon Wet Food for optimal coat care.
Digestibility: All our recipes start with the gut, enriched with pre, post and probiotics, to help ensure easy digestion. Check out our Sensitive Stomach Dog Food for little ones with extra sensitive tums.
Sustainability: As a member of 1% for the Planet and certified B Corp we're committed to eco-friendly practices with recyclable packaging and responsible ingredient sourcing.
Trustworthy Nutrition: Don't just take our word, we're rated 4.5 on Trustpilot with over 5k five star reviews.

Pair a balanced diet with mentally engaging toys to keep your Shiba healthy and happy. The Shiba Inu’s unique mix of independence, intelligence, and charm makes them a special breed for owners who are up for the challenge. With their fox-like good looks, fearless personality, and boundless curiosity, a Shiba Inu will keep you on your toes and make life a little more exciting!