Are you thinking about bringing Shiba Inu into your home? That’s completely understandable because who can resist that cute face? As with any other dog breed it’s important to learn about Shiba Inu and what kind of care they require. For those considering Shiba Inu as their new family member, a common question is “Can Shiba Inus live outdoors?”
In this article, we are going to cover all information you need to know about your Shiba Inu staying outside.
Can Shiba Inu be an outdoor dog?
Shiba Inus originate from Japan’s cold regions. They were designed to hunt in cold weather and withstand harsh winter temperatures. Their tick and fluffy coats are protecting them from cold air. The same goes for hot summer days.
Shiba Inu is equipped with its perfect coat protection but that doesn’t make it completely untouchable. Yes, Shibas do very well in both cold and warm weather but they shouldn’t be left outside for very long periods of time. In case you decide that your Shiba Inu will live outdoors, you need to provide them with shelter. This will help them warm up in cold weather or cool down on hot summer days.
Like any other dog, Shiba Inu also needs your love and attention. If they live outside, make sure that they get enough quality time with you. Take enough time for training and challenging their stubborn brains. Shiba Inus are best trained when they trust you. Trust is built by spending time together with your canine friend.
Can Shiba Inu go in the snow?
It can be very scary to see your Shiba Inu puppy rolling in the snow and eating it. Coming from the human perspective, it’s normal that you’re worried if they will catch a cold that way. But your little Shiba ball of fur has two layers of coat that keep him warm and ready for snow.
Even though they are naturally equipped for harsh winters, Shiba Inu puppy needs to adjust to the cold weather. If you notice that they are cold, help them get warm. They are not meant to stay outdoors 24/7 without shelter.
Snow eating
Don’t let your Shiba Inu eat show. The problem with snow eating is not the fact that snow is ice cold. The concern should be the number of germs swarming in the snow. Even the beautiful and fresh white snow is full of germs.
Paws protection
It is always a good idea to protect your Shiba’s paws when they go out for a longer period of time. If they live outside, their paws will get used to the cold. But if they live in your house you should protect their paws to prevent any illness. Using any kind of dog shoes will help to protect their paws from the cold or germs and toxins.
Cleaning and moisturizing paws
Paws are a sensitive part of Shiba Inu’s body which is why they require attention. Make sure to wash your dog’s paws after the fun play outside. This will keep your Shiba safe from germs and infections. Warm water can also help with frost bites by improving circulation in Shiba’s cute paws.
There are many products on the market that you can use to moisturize Shiba Inu’s paws once they are clean. Make sure that you choose products with natural ingredients and soothing properties.
Don’t dress your Shiba Inu
Dog clothes are useful for short-haired dogs who live inside. It helps overcome the temperature difference between a warm house and cold winter weather.
However, Shiba Inus are fully equipped for cold days so there’s no need to put any additional clothes layers on them. Their fur will protect them enough. Clothes are an acceptable choice for Shiba Inu only in cases where they have problems with their coat causing the lack of fur.
Feeding Shiba Inu in winter
Shiba Inu needs plenty of nutrients and calories to compensate for cold weather. Make sure to provide ample and warm meals for you Shiba. If Shiba Inu lives outdoors make sure to increase their nutrients, especially protein. If they live inside and enjoy the warmth of your house, there is no need to change their diet.
How long should you stay out with Shiba Inu?
If your Shiba Inu is a house dog and you go outside only for a walk and play pay attention to the following signs.
When Shiba Inu is too cold they will make whiny sounds letting you know that they are uncomfortable. You will also hear their clenched teeth making sounds. Another sign is shivering.
These behaviors are serious symptoms of Shiba being too cold and freezing. Freezing after long hours outside can lead to many health issues, thus shouldn’t be taken lightly.
If Shiba Inu is sick cut the amount of time spent outside in the cold to a minimum.
Shiba Inus and hot weather
Shiba Inus do better in cold than hot weather but they are designed to adjust to temperature oscillations through seasons. Shiba Inu in hot weather is safe as long as you provide them with the needed care.
After winter is passed, they will shed their winter coat during the first 3 weeks of spring. Their summer coat keeps cold air close to Shiba’s skin keeping the warm air out. You should not leave Shiba Inu out in hot weather for too long if they don’t have shelter. It is necessary that Shibas who live outside always have shelter and water to cool down.
Like on cold days, you also need to take care of your Shiba Inu in hot weather. If you’re wondering how to know if your Shiba is too hot and what to do to help them, read our recent article about Shiba Inu in hot weather.
Conclusion
Regardless of the fact that Shiba Inu is designed to withstand both cold and hot weather, you shouldn’t let them do it on their own. This is especially important for Shiba Inu puppies.
As we previously established, the care required for Shiba Inu in winter and summer will differ depending on where they live. You can’t treat the dog who lives outdoors the same as the one living inside your house. It is important to track your Shiba’s behavior and provide care accordingly.
They do need your help so make sure not to leave them to handle temperature rise and fall on their own.
