The Shiba Inu care guide is essential for anyone considering this spirited, fox-like dog breed. Known for their bold personality, cleverness, and signature curly tail, Shiba Inus are one of the oldest dog breeds from Japan. But while their charm is undeniable, they also come with unique quirks that every pet parent should understand to keep them healthy and happy.
At Hollywood Feed, we’re here to walk you through Shiba Inu care—from food and grooming to training tips, toys, and their playful (and sometimes stubborn) personality.
A Quick Look at the Shiba Inu Breed
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Origin: Japan, where they were bred as hunting dogs
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Size: Small to medium (17–23 lbs)
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Life Expectancy: 13–16 years
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Traits: Independent, alert, loyal, energetic, sometimes aloof
The Shiba Inu has a reputation for being both adorable and mischievous—making them a breed that requires patience, consistency, and the right care routine.
Personality: Bold, Independent, and Intelligent
The Shiba Inu is often described as “big personality in a small body.” They are loyal to their family but not overly clingy, preferring a little independence. Shibas are intelligent, but their independent streak can make training a challenge. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key to success.
Fun fact: The breed is famous for the “Shiba scream”—a loud, high-pitched sound they make when unhappy or overly excited.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
Shiba Inus are agile and energetic. They enjoy daily walks, runs, and plenty of playtime. Without enough exercise, they can get bored—and a bored Shiba is likely to find trouble (chewing, digging, or escaping).
Shiba Inu care tip: Because of their strong prey drive, Shibas should always be on leash or in a secure, fenced yard.
Diet and Food Recommendations
A healthy diet is key to supporting their active lifestyle.
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High-quality protein: Shibas benefit from foods rich in chicken, fish, or lamb.
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Balanced nutrition: Grain-inclusive or grain-free, depending on sensitivities.
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Portion control: This breed can gain weight easily, so measure meals carefully.
Hollywood Feed offers premium brands like Farmina, Primal, and Fromm, which provide the right balance of nutrients for Shiba Inu health.
Training: Patience Required
Training a Shiba Inu is both rewarding and challenging. They’re smart enough to learn quickly but stubborn enough to ignore you if they feel like it.
Best training tools for Shiba Inu care:
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Training Treats: Small, tasty rewards like Butcher’s Block Bones Beef Lung Bites or Etta Says! Sit Bacon Flavored Dog Treats
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Clickers: Reinforce commands with clear sound cues.
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Harnesses: Shibas are escape artists; a secure harness helps with leash training.
Consistency, short training sessions, and lots of positive reinforcement are the keys to success.
Toys and Playtime
Shibas thrive on interactive toys that challenge their brains and bodies.
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Puzzle toys keep them mentally sharp.
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Durable chew toys (like Benebones) help redirect their chewing habits.
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Fetch and tug toys burn off extra energy.
A few minutes of play each day goes a long way in preventing mischief.
Grooming Needs
The Shiba Inu has a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year (“blowing coat” season).
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Brushing: Weekly brushing, daily during shedding season.
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Bathing: Only as needed; their coats are naturally clean.
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Nail trims & ear cleaning: Regular care keeps them healthy and comfortable.
Pro tip: Use an undercoat rake during shedding season to reduce hair around the house.
Is a Shiba Inu Right for You?
Shibas are affectionate, playful, and loyal—but also independent and strong-willed. They’re best suited for experienced dog owners who enjoy a challenge and want a companion with plenty of personality.
Recap: Shiba Inu Care Guide
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Independent, bold, and loyal personality
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Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation required
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Feed a balanced, high-quality diet with portion control
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Training requires patience, consistency, and tasty treats
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Regular grooming, especially during heavy shedding seasons
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Secure harnesses and fenced yards are a must
FAQs About Shiba Inu Care
Q: Are Shiba Inus good family dogs?
A: Yes, but they do best with older children who understand boundaries.
Q: Can Shibas live in apartments?
A: Yes, as long as they get daily exercise and mental enrichment.
Q: Do Shibas get along with other pets?
A: They can, but introductions should be slow and supervised due to their prey drive.
Q: How hard are Shibas to train?
A: They’re intelligent but stubborn. Positive reinforcement is essential.
The Shiba Inu may be small, but their personality is larger than life. With the right mix of exercise, training, nutrition, and love, you’ll have a loyal companion who keeps you entertained every day.
👉 Visit your local Hollywood Feed store or shop online for Shiba Inu food, toys, and grooming supplies. And don’t forget to check out our blog for more pet care tips and breed guides!
