• Fact 2 - Description and Definition of Shiba Inu: An ancient breed of small, compact dog with deep-set triangular eyes with black eye rims and small triangular shaped ears. Its quarry is small game such as rabbits and birds
  • The word 'Shiba' means small
  • The Shiba Inu has a similar appearance to the bigger Akitas
• Fact 3 - Size: The weight of Shiba Inu range from 20 - 30 pounds
• Fact 4 - Size: The height ranges from 13.5 - 16.5 inches, up to the shoulder
• Fact 5 - Alternative Names of Shiba Inu and Nicknames: Brushwood Dog and Japanese Small-Size Dog
• Fact 6 - Coat and colors of Shiba Inu: The double coat is normally straight and harsh and comes in a range of colors including a shade of red, salt and pepper, black or black and tan and white
• Fact 7 - Life of Shiba Inu: the life expectancy of this breed of dog is between 13 - 16 years
• Fact 8 - The names of dog breeds are separated into different dog types which are referred to as Dog Groups. The name of the dog group for Shiba Inu is the Non Sporting dog breed
• Fact 9 - After the first year of life, dogs are considered to be adults - they equivalent to 16 human years!
• Fact 10 - Choosing Shiba Inu as pets! The following considerations should be taken into account when choosing this particular breed of dog as a pet:
  • How much it will cost to feed and train the dog?
  • How much time will it take to groom the dog?
  • How much time will it take to exercise the dog on a daily basis?
  • Are Shiba Inu suitable for children?
  • How much will it cost for vet bills, pet or dog health insurance, medication and vaccinations?
• Fact 11 - Every breed of dog is susceptible to certain health problems and illnesses. Shiba Inu are prone to health problems and illnesses such as:
  • - Hip Dysplasia (abnormal development of hip joints)
  • - Entropion (The border of the eyelid turns inward against the eyeball)
  • - Patellar Luxation - the kneecap luxates, or pops out of place
  • - Eye problems
• Fact 12 - A Shiba Inu should always be on a leash because of their strong drive to hunt quarry
• Fact 13 - Breeding Shiba Inu for appearance was only introduced in the 19th Century
• Fact 14 - It is estimated that 85% of dogs visit a vet in a year
• Fact 15 - The average cost of owning a medium sized dog, over a 10 year period, is estimated as over $13,000! This provides a good idea of how much it costs to raise Shiba Inu

For in depth information we highly recommend Dog Names and Breeds.