Search over 3 Shiba Inu dogs across Australia
The Shiba Inu is the ultimate mix of elegance, sass, and unshakeable confidence, wrapped up in a compact, fox-like package.
With their proud stance, piercing eyes, and plush coat, these Japanese dogs look like they stepped straight out of an ancient scroll painting.
But don’t be fooled by their charming, innocent expression—these dogs are as strong-willed as they are intelligent.
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The Shiba Inu is the ultimate mix of elegance, sass, and unshakeable confidence, wrapped up in a compact, fox-like package.
With their proud stance, piercing eyes, and plush coat, these Japanese dogs look like they stepped straight out of an ancient scroll painting.
But don’t be fooled by their charming, innocent expression—these dogs are as strong-willed as they are intelligent.
Questions To Ask A Breeder
- Are you are registered breeder?
- Can we meet in person?
- Have they been socialised?
Breed Characteristics
Grooming
Exercise
Size Range
The Ultimate Shiba Inu Guide
About Shiba Inu
Originally bred to hunt in the rugged Japanese mountains, the Shiba Inu is alert, agile, and fiercely independent.
They have a bold personality, a deep love for their own space, and a tendency to do whatever they please—whether you approve or not.
They’re fastidiously clean, rarely bark without a good reason, and are known for the infamous “Shiba scream”—a dramatic, high-pitched howl that sounds like a siren going off when they’re excited (or throwing a tantrum).
If you’re looking for a clingy lapdog that will obey your every command, the Shiba is not it. But if you respect their independent nature, sharp mind, and mischievous streak, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most fascinating, entertaining, and fiercely loyal companions you’ll ever meet.
Lifespan
13 to 16 years
Weight
Male: 10.4 kg Female: 7.7 kg
Height
Male: 36.8 to 41.9 cm Female: 34.3 to 39.4 cm
Grooming
Recommended to brush coat every other day.
Origins
The Shiba Inu’s lineage stretches back thousands of years, making it one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. Developed in Japan, these dogs were bred to hunt small game—birds, rabbits, and even wild boars—through dense forests and mountainous terrain.
Their compact size, lightning-fast reflexes, and sharp senses made them invaluable hunting companions.
The breed nearly vanished during World War II, when food shortages and bombings decimated their numbers. Thankfully, a few dedicated breeders helped revive them, blending different Shiba bloodlines to preserve their legendary traits.
Today, they are Japan’s most popular companion dog and have gained a cult following worldwide.
Despite their modern-day celebrity status, Shibas have never lost their wild edge—they still carry the spirit of an untamed hunter, always scanning their surroundings with keen, watchful eyes.
Key Characteristics Of Shiba Inus
Are Shiba Inus Family-Friendly?
Shibas are not your typical people-pleasers. They’re affectionate but aloof, loving their humans on their own terms.
If you’re expecting a cuddly shadow that follows you around, you’re in for a surprise—Shibas are more like a highly opinionated roommate than an overly attached pet.
Common Health Issues & Considerations
Shiba Inus may suffer from:
Hypothyroidism
Allergies
Epilepsy
Patellar luxation
A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal location within the knee joint.
Progressive retinal atrophy
Nature / Temperament
Confident, alert, fearless, loyal, and charming
Suitable Environment
Shiba Inu puppies are adaptable—they do well in apartments, houses, or rural areas, as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Other Considerations
- Shibas groom themselves constantly, rarely smell, and hate getting wet.
- If they’re excited, annoyed, or just feeling dramatic, Shiba Inus let out a high-pitched howl that can be heard down the street.
- Their expressions are priceless, making them internet-famous icons.
How can I take good care of my Shiba Inu?
Nutrition
Shiba Inus might be compact, but they have high energy levels and need a nutritionally rich diet to support their active lifestyle.
Their diet should be high in protein, with real meat—like chicken, beef, lamb, or fish—as the first ingredient.
If you prefer home-cooked meals or a raw diet, ensure it’s balanced with muscle meat, organ meat, bones (or a safe calcium alternative), and small portions of vegetables.
Consulting a vet or canine nutritionist is always a good idea before switching to a raw diet.
Grooming
Shibas shed moderately year-round but blow their coat twice a year—meaning they drop fur in massive clumps for several weeks.
During shedding season, expect to find fur in your food, on your clothes, and floating through the air like tumbleweeds.
Recommended Grooming Tips
Use a slicker brush and undercoat rake to remove loose fur. This prevents matting and keeps their coat healthy.
Shibas hate water, so don’t expect them to enjoy bath time. Since they naturally repel dirt, frequent bathing isn’t necessary unless they roll in something foul.
Their nails grow fast, and because they’re so light-footed, they don’t naturally wear them down. If you hear clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim.
Exercise
Shibas are a breed with a surprising mix of energy and independence. They’re not the kind of dog that’ll run endlessly like a greyhound on the track, but they definitely need their daily dose of movement to stay in top form.
Think of them as sprinters who enjoy short bursts of action rather than long, drawn-out marathons. Their exercise routine needs to be varied, engaging, and tailored to their clever but sometimes headstrong nature.
Training
Training a Shiba Inu puppy is not for the faint-hearted. This breed is sharp, quick to learn, and completely uninterested in obeying unless they feel like it.
Unlike a Labrador or a Border Collie, who live for human approval, a Shiba takes a different approach to training—“What’s in it for me?”
Training a Shiba takes patience, but when done right, it creates a well-behaved, independent dog that respects boundaries while still keeping their cheeky personality.
This is general information and should not be relied on for adopting or purchasing advice.
Most Asked Shiba Inu Questions
Nope. Their prey drive makes them runners, and they won’t come back just because you called nicely. If a Shiba Inu spots something interesting—like a squirrel, bird, or even a plastic bag blowing in the wind—they will bolt without a second thought.
They rarely bark, but they’ll scream if they feel strongly about something. Shiba Inus are surprisingly quiet dogs, often observing rather than reacting. But when they do make noise, they make sure everyone hears it.
The famous Shiba scream is a high-pitched wail that sounds like a siren—it can happen when they’re excited, frustrated, or throwing a tantrum over something ridiculous (like a bath or a leash they don’t approve of).
If you’ve never heard it before, prepare yourself—Shiba screams have been known to startle entire neighborhoods.
A Shiba with limited registration from a reputable breeder costs from AUD $2,000 to $5,000. A pup with full registration costs between $2,500 and $5,500.
If you are looking to bring home a Shiba Inu puppy, make sure to adopt from a verified breeder. Avoid buying from disreputable breeders and stores if you want your dog to be healthy with a sound temperament.
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