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Shiba Inu

Dogs Breed

small
Size
14
Years Life Expectancy
1
Years to Maturity
Shiba Inu

About Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a small non-sporting breed originally developed for hunting in the mountains of japan, alert watchdog. Weighing 8-10 kg and standing 34-42 cm at the shoulder, and typical lifespan 12-16 years (average about 14). Temperament: Charming, Fearless and Keen.

Detailed Overview

Overview: The Shiba Inu is a small non-sporting breed originally developed for hunting in the mountains of japan, alert watchdog. This overview synthesizes structured characteristics (size, temperament, lifespan) into a practical ownership profile without relying on external narrative sources.

Physical & Growth: Typical adult weight 8-10 kg and height 34-42 cm at the shoulder. Growth plates generally approach closure near the maturity age (~1.0 yrs), after which sustained conditioning and joint-friendly exercise patterns are emphasized. Senior life stage typically begins around 9 yrs, prompting adjustments in caloric density, joint monitoring, and wellness screening intervals.

Temperament & Trainability: Temperament commonly described as charming, fearless, keen, alert, confident and faithful when appropriately socialized. Consistent early social exposure, reward-based reinforcement, and structured boundaries help channel instinctive drives productively. Short, focused sessions reinforce responsiveness while reducing overstimulation.

Exercise & Enrichment: Recommended baseline is 45-75 minutes of varied activity. Blend aerobic activity (walks, controlled fetch, swimming where appropriate) with cognitive tasks (target training, scent games, puzzle feeders). Periodic rest intervals and surface diversity (grass, stable footing) support musculoskeletal resilience.

Health & Preventive Care: Lifespan 12-16 years (avg ~14). Primary preventive care focuses on maintaining lean body condition, structured exercise, and periodic screening as the dog ages. Maintaining a lean body condition score and monitoring subtle gait changes or behavioral shifts allows earlier veterinary consultation. Dental hygiene (brushing or validated chews) and parasite prevention further support longevity.

Household Suitability: Adaptable to apartments or houses with consistent daily engagement. A moderate energy profile allows flexibility—balanced sessions of exercise and calm indoor time generally keep the dog content. Thoughtful scheduling of training, exercise, rest, and calm handling routines helps sustain behavioral stability. Equipment basics include a properly fitted flat collar or harness, enrichment rotation (chew variety, scent articles), and an appropriately sized resting area that balances joint support with temperature regulation.

Care Summary: Integrating measured physical exercise, progressive training progression, nutritional portion control, and proactive wellness screening forms a comprehensive stewardship model for the Shiba Inu. Adjust protocols responsively across life stages—from juvenile learning windows through senior comfort adaptations—to optimize wellbeing.

Temperament

CharmingFearlessKeenAlertConfidentFaithful

Health Considerations

Quick Facts

Category:Dogs
Size:small
Weight:8 - 10 kg
Height:34 - 42 cm
Life Span:14 years
Maturity:1 years
Senior Age:9 years

Additional Information

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lifespan range:12-16
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training end age months:17
training start age months:2