Shiba Inu

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment13–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Allergies · Patellar luxation · Glaucoma

The Shiba Inu is a fox-faced ancient Japanese breed with a famously cat-like temperament: independent, dignified, clean and often aloof, it is devoted to its family in its own reserved way rather than needy or demonstrative. That independence defines ownership. A Shiba is intelligent but stubborn, has a strong prey drive, and is a determined escape artist with unreliable recall, so a secure fenced yard and on-lead walks are essential, along with patient, positive, motivating training. It can be possessive of food and toys and choosy about other dogs, making early socialisation important. The thick double coat is clean and low-odour but sheds dramatically twice a year, needing frequent brushing during the 'blow'. Health-wise it is a generally robust, long-lived breed, but buy from a breeder who screens hips and eyes, and be aware of allergies and skin problems, patellar luxation, glaucoma and other eye disease, and hip dysplasia. Give a Shiba secure containment, patient training, exercise and respect for its independent nature, and it will be a beautiful, spirited and devoted companion — on its own terms — for thirteen to sixteen years.

• How much exercise does a Shiba Inu need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Shiba Inu need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Shiba Inu suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Happy in smaller homes with regular outings.

• Is a Shiba Inu a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Shiba Inu live?

  13–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Shiba Inu?

  Keep an eye out for Allergies, Patellar luxation, Glaucoma. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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