How Long Do Shiba Inus Live?
Shiba Inus live 13-16 years on average. Here is the AKC breed profile, the health areas to stay ahead of, and how to give a Shiba Inu more good years.
Breed profile
Breed profile and trait ratings: American Kennel Club. Trait scores are AKC ratings from 1 to 5.
At 23 pounds, the Shiba Inu is a medium breed. Medium breeds fall in the middle of the canine lifespan range, which its 13-16 years average reflects.
Does a Shiba Inu fit your life?
An independent, almost cat-like little dog that bonds deeply with its people but takes direction on its own terms. It rewards an owner with some experience and enough mental engagement to keep its stubborn streak in check.
A great match if you
- Alertness comes naturally here, this breed notices everything around it.
- Once bonded, this breed stays deeply affectionate with its people.
- Mental challenges keep this breed engaged, it enjoys and needs them.
- A relatively low-fuss coat suits you, grooming needs stay modest.
Think twice if
- Real experience or patience helps a lot, this breed is famously independent and stubborn in training.
- Kids, other dogs, and new people all need careful, gradual introductions.
- Without enough mental engagement, that independent streak turns to mischief.
Health areas for the Shiba Inu
Based on the breed profile, the health areas most worth staying ahead of for a Shiba Inu are Joint and mobility, Eye and vision and Skin, coat, allergy (owners often watch for hip dysplasia, eye, allergies).
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Shiba Inu facts, quick answers
How long do Shiba Inus live?
Shiba Inus live 13-16 years on average, and plenty go beyond that. The two biggest levers on where a given dog lands are keeping it at a lean, healthy weight and staying ahead of the health issues the breed is prone to.
How big do Shiba Inus get?
A full-grown Shiba Inu stands 14.5-16.5 inches (male), 13.5-15.5 inches (female) and weighs 23 pounds (male), 17 pounds (female), which puts it firmly in the medium-breed range.
What kind of dog is a Shiba Inu?
The Shiba Inu is a non-sporting breed, and one of the country's more popular breeds, ranked 42 of 208. It is a medium dog that typically lives around 13-16 years.
Are Shiba Inus high-energy dogs?
Shiba Inus are moderate in energy, so daily activity matters but they are not bouncing off the walls.
Are Shiba Inus easy to train?
Shiba Inus are known for an independent streak and can be stubborn, so start early and make training worth their while.
Do Shiba Inus shed a lot?
They are moderate shedders. A weekly brush keeps most of the loose hair off your furniture.
Do Shiba Inus bark a lot?
They bark a normal amount, mostly to let you know something is up.
Are Shiba Inus good with kids?
Shiba Inus are able to do well with children, but they are best in homes with older, dog-savvy kids and benefit from early socialization.
Do Shiba Inus get along with other dogs?
Shiba Inus are able to get along with other dogs, though early socialization helps and some prefer to be the only dog.
Are Shiba Inus good for first-time owners?
Shiba Inus are rewarding but not the easiest first dog; they do best with an owner ready to commit to their exercise, training and grooming.
