Fetch Finder
At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Cold climates
- Apartments
- Experienced or patient owners
Watch out for
- Independent and stubborn; harder to train
- Should stay on a leash (strong prey drive)
- Sheds heavily twice a year
Daily care
Exercise: 45–60 minutes a day.
Grooming: Weekly brushing; daily during shedding season.
Cold weather: One of the best small breeds for cold winters. Its double coat handles snow easily.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Shiba Inu
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- FoodSmall breed dog food
Formulas made for small breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate24-inch dog crate
A 24" crate fits most adult Shiba Inus (up to about 23 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingDeshedding brush
Shiba Inus shed a lot; an undercoat rake or deshedding tool cuts down on loose hair.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedWashable dog bed
A washable cover makes life easier, especially with a puppy.
See options on Amazon
Find a Shiba Inu near you
We're building a list of trusted Shiba Inu rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Shiba Inu page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Shiba Inu rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Shiba Inu is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
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