Shiba Inu – The Smiling Dog from Japan

Shiba Inu is one of Japan's oldest dog breeds, known for its adorable appearance and signature "smiling" face. In fact, this breed is so famous that it even has its own viral Shiba meme collection!

As one of the six ancient Japanese dog breeds, the Shiba Inu is small, charming, and full of cute expressions. If you're looking for a dog that can bring joy and comfort, the Shiba Inu is a perfect choice! Let’s dive into more details about this lovable breed in the article below.

Where Does the Shiba Inu Come From?

Purebred Japanese Shiba Inu.

The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese dog breed that has existed for 2,000–3,000 years. Originally bred for hunting small game, this breed later gained worldwide fame thanks to its adorable appearance. Many people affectionately call it the "smiling dog" due to its naturally cheerful expression.

Physical Characteristics of the Shiba Inu

As an ancient breed, the Shiba Inu retains all the distinctive features of native Japanese dogs. It closely resembles the Akita Inu, but is significantly smaller.

• Size & Weight:
  • Males: 35–43 cm tall, 9–11 kg
  • Females: 33–41 cm tall, 7–9 kg
• Head & Face: Round head, short muzzle, large nose, and triangular, erect ears.
• Body: Straight back, slim waist, muscular legs.
• Tail: Thick, fluffy, and curls over the back.
• Coat: Dense double coat with various colors like red, black-tan, sesame (red with black-tipped hairs), cream (rare color). They shed a lot.

Temperament of the Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu Loves to Run and Play.

The Shiba Inu is not only adorable but also has a unique personality—independent and stubborn, yet incredibly loyal. Let’s dive into the temperament of this fascinating breed to understand why so many people love and want to own a Shiba Inu!

Independent but Stubborn

Shiba Inu dogs are not easily controlled. They are quite independent and don’t always obey their owners. Sometimes, they can be stubborn, preferring to entertain themselves rather than seek attention.

Smart and a Bit Sneaky

Shiba Inu dogs are extremely intelligent. They can quickly learn commands and training routines. However, if their owner is not strict enough, they might pretend not to hear or deliberately ignore commands to get their way. So, don’t be too lenient with them!

Loyal but Not Clingy

Shiba Inu dogs are very loyal, but they don’t always stick close to their owners. They enjoy independence and like having their own personal space.

Clean and Cat-Like

Shiba Inu dogs are exceptionally clean. They have a habit of licking their fur, much like a cat, and will become visibly uncomfortable if they get dirty.

Energetic and Loves to Run

As a hunting breed, Shiba Inu dogs have a strong instinct to run, jump, and explore their surroundings. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can feel restless and might even chew on furniture or household items.

Diet and Nutrition for Shiba Inu

Shiba Inu Needs a Proper Diet for Growth and a Beautiful Coat

Although the Shiba Inu is a small-sized dog, it has a beautiful coat and a muscular body. To ensure your Shiba stays healthy and looks its best, you need to provide a well-balanced diet. Here’s a detailed feeding guide to help you take care of your furry friend!

Recommended Nutritional Plan

Below is a recommended nutritional breakdown for a Shiba Inu, as advised by experts.

Note:
Since Shiba Inu dogs are small, their food intake should be moderate. Avoid overfeeding carbohydrates like rice and bread to prevent obesity. Also, do not feed them onions, garlic, grapes, or other harmful vegetables.

Feeding Portions by Age

Depending on their age, Shiba Inu dogs require different meal frequencies and portions. Check out the table below:

How to Take Care of a Shiba Inu

Proper Shiba Inu Care for a Well-Behaved and Obedient Dog

Shiba Inu dogs are not difficult to care for, making them a relatively easy breed to maintain. However, there are a few important considerations to ensure your Shiba Inu remains healthy and well-behaved.

Essential Shiba Inu Care Tips

Daily Exercise
Shiba Inu dogs love to run and play, so providing a regular exercise routine is crucial. This not only keeps them happy but also strengthens their muscles.

Coat Maintenance & Hygiene
Since Shiba Inu dogs have a thick double coat, they shed seasonally. Regular brushing and bathing will help control shedding and keep their coat healthy. Remember to dry them properly after bathing to prevent skin issues.

Eye, Nail & Ear Care

• Eyes: Clean regularly to prevent infections.
• Nails: Trim when they get long to avoid discomfort.
• Ears: Clean once a week to prevent infections.

Vaccinations & Deworming
Follow your vet’s guidelines for vaccinations and deworming to prevent diseases.

Training & Discipline
Shiba Inu dogs are intelligent but stubborn, so consistent training is necessary. If you don’t set firm rules, your Shiba might become rebellious.

Common Health Issues in Shiba Inu Dogs

Shiba Inu dogs have an average lifespan of 12 - 15 years. Throughout their life, they may suffer from certain health conditions such as glaucoma, ear infections, digestive issues, skin fungus, and allergies. Below are some common diseases and prevention tips:

1. Glaucoma

• Cause: Genetics or eye infections.
• Symptoms: Red eyes, excessive tearing, frequent eye rubbing.
• Prevention & Treatment: Regular eye cleaning; visit a vet immediately if redness or swelling appears.

2. Skin Fungus & Allergies

• Cause: Parasites, poor hygiene.
• Symptoms: Constant scratching, flaky or red skin.
• Prevention & Treatment: Maintain hygiene, keep living space dry, provide Omega-3 and Vitamin E. If symptoms worsen, consult a vet.

3. Digestive Issues & Diarrhea

• Cause: Spoiled food, bacterial infections, intestinal parasites.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite.
• Prevention & Treatment: Feed clean food, deworm regularly. If symptoms persist, seek veterinary care.

Shiba Inu Price & Buying Tips

Thinking about getting a Shiba Inu but unsure about the price and requirements? Here’s a detailed price list and buying tips to help you make an informed decision.

Shiba Inu Price Table

Important Notes When Buying a Shiba Inu

• Ensure the puppy has received at least 2 vaccinations and has been dewormed.
• Request a vaccination record from the seller.
• Buy from reputable breeders with clear lineage records. Avoid unverified sellers to prevent health risks.
• Observe the puppy before buying—make sure it is healthy, active, and free of skin diseases.

Cute & Adorable Shiba Inu Photos

Finally, check out some adorable Shiba Inu pictures we’ve compiled below! These charming pups will surely melt your heart

Cute Shiba Inu Dog.

White Shiba dog.

There is black Shiba.

Super cute smiling Shiba Inu dog.

Shiba dog meme hottest hit social network.

Through this article, dogbreed.wiki has shared useful information about the Shiba Inu, an adorable dog with a smiling face from Japan. If you're looking for a smart and cute companion, the Shiba Inu is definitely a great choice!

Goodbye for now! See you in our next Blog posts as we continue exploring hundreds of different dog breeds together!