The Shiba Inu, one of the oldest breeds in Japan, is a small dog with a proud and elegant appearance. Its lively and intelligent character, along with its strong personality, makes it a beloved companion for those seeking a loyal, protective, and independent dog.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Japan
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight: 6-10 kg (male & female)
- Height: 38-41 cm (male) | 35-38 cm (female)
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Suitable for apartment living with good daily outings)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very protective of its family)
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate barking)
- Obedient: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Independent, can be stubborn)
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Hunting dog, but not as intense as a working dog)
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be calm, but active when playing or exercising)
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (High energy level)
- Independent: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Quite independent, but loyal to its owners)
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Less suitable for young children, but can get along with them)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Can be reserved with other animals, requires good socialization)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can be reserved, but not aggressive)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can live in an apartment with regular outings)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Low maintenance, but regular care is necessary)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate maintenance)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Regular, especially during shedding
- Bathing: Occasional, especially after outdoor activities
- Ear and teeth monitoring: Regular check-ups
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 1000-1500 €
- Coût annuel moyen (vétérinaire, accessoires, alimentation) :
🏡 Important note
The Shiba Inu is an energetic and independent dog that can adapt to apartment living, but it requires frequent outings to burn off energy. It prefers an environment where it can run freely, particularly a house with a garden, and a rural setting may suit it better. Although it is not particularly affectionate, it is very loyal and protective of its loved ones, making it an excellent companion dog for active individuals.
👉 An intelligent and proud companion, but to be raised with some firmness! 🏡
