Breed Specific: The Shiba Inu, independent, yet adaptable

Pikes Peak Vet wants you to know about your Shiba Inu’s lifestyle and other needs!

Personality and General Features: This ancient Japanese breed was originally bred to hunt. While generally good natured, the Shiba Inu does best in a home without children or other pets as they retain the instincts of a hunter. They are sturdy well-muscled alert dogs who possess a confident and independent personality. They are adaptable and at home in an urban environment or in the country.

Males – Height: 14.5-16.5 inches        Weight: 23 pounds

Females – Height: 13.5-15.5 inches    Weight: 17 pounds

Feeding/Treats/Weight: Discuss an appropriate high-quality diet with your veterinarian. Some Shibas are picky and others will eat anything in sight. Some are prone to weight gain, so watch calorie consumption. Treats can be an effective training aid, but too many can cause obesity. Learn which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Grooming: Shibas shed a LOT, so weekly or more regular brushing is a good idea. They shed more heavily twice a year, but some owners quip that it lasts for six months at a time. If you have a long-coat Shiba, more frequent brushing will keep mats from forming. Blowing with a strong blow dryer or a reverse shop vacuum, if they will tolerate it, will remove loose hair, dirt, skin and check for fleas. Don’t let the air get too hot though. Shibas often object to nail trimming, so start them as puppies. If they give you trouble, let a professional handle it so that they don’t experience foot and leg pain. Brushing teeth weekly with a canine toothpaste is recommended.

Exercise: Most Shibas are fairly energetic and love walks. Regular exercise will help bond them with their owner and keep them mentally stimulated and happy. Shibas can be prone to separation anxiety and should be able to spend time crated even when owners are home and at night to guarantee the home remains intact.

Training: Shibas can never EVER be considered reliable off lead unless in a fenced area. To do so amounts to Russian roulette and very possibly no more dog. No amount of training will ever change that. Training for basic commands is still highly recommended.

Thank you to https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/shiba-inu/ and Every Dog by Nancy Hajeski for this information.

BASIC FACTS

Over the Shiba’s 13-16 expected years, you and your vet will create a health plan to evaluate and catch any conditions that may arise.

HEALTH CONCERNS

• Anxiety/aggression
• Allergies
• Orthopedic/bone issues
• Eye disorders
• Dental disease

Pikes Peak Vet has the goal of healthy longevity for your Shiba Inu.

Wellness Exams and Vaccinations

• Every 6-12 months, as advised by your veterinarian, until age 6, including a full physical exam and routine bloodwork
• Pets age faster than us and tend to hide symptoms. At age 6, we recommend routine exams and bloodwork every 6 months to catch anything unexpected before it gets too firm a hold.

Other Exams and Screenings

• Joint x-rays
• Full eye evaluation
• Dietary education
• Training education
• Routine dentistry as needed

Reach out for more information by phone or text, 719-475-1747, or through our Pikes Peak Vet app!