Shiba Inu
Alert, active, and attentive
Alert, active, and attentive. The Shiba Inu is a spirited Japanese breed with a bold, independent character.
Breed Statistics
Compatibility Overview
Personality & Temperament
The Shiba Inu is confident, independent, and fastidiously clean — traits that draw comparisons to cats. They are loyal to their family but tend to be reserved or aloof with strangers. Their strong prey drive and independent nature make off-leash reliability a challenge. Shibas can be possessive of food and toys and may not tolerate other animals well. They require experienced, patient owners who understand and respect their self-reliant character.
Daily Exercise
Moderate (45–60 min)
Recommended daily activity to keep this breed healthy and happy.
Known Health Conditions
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Allergies
- Hypothyroidism
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- Chylothorax
Want to learn more before deciding?
Our book covers everything you need to know about choosing the right breed for your lifestyle.
