The Shiba Inu breed was originally bred to hunt birds and small animals. It is one of six breeds originated from Japan: Akita Inu (large), Hokkaido, Kai, Shikoku (medium) and Shiba Inu (small). It is known for its lively personality, small erect ears, and cat-like dexterity. Today, in Japan and the United States, Shiba Inu serves primarily as a faithful and family companion. If you’ve decided to add this lovely pooch to your family, then you probably want to know more about Shiba Inu maintenance.
How hard is it to take care of a Shiba Inu?
Shiba Inus are very independent dogs who will always search for an activity. They don’t like to cuddle a lot and are famous for their cat-like behavior. Shibas can’t stand being dirty, so they’ll lick their paws and other body parts to stay clean just like cats.
Shiba Inu maintenance – the main hygiene routines
Shiba Inu has a thick, two-layered coat that gives him the look of a teddy bear. The outer layer is firm and flat, while the undercoat is thick and soft. Shedding is moderate throughout the year and becomes excessively twice a year.
The breed comes in orange-red color, “urajiro” (cream-white markings), and sesame color (black patterns on a rich, red background). Sometimes there are white patterns on the top of the tail, front and back legs.
When it comes to grooming, this breed is easy to maintain. It is naturally clean and odorless. Brushing is needed once a week (sometimes more often during the molting season), to remove dead hair and improve producing skin natural oils.
Bathing is necessary, but not too often because excessive bathing leads to drying of the skin and fur. Many owners bathe their Shiba Inu every 3-4 months.
Shiba Inu maintenance of teeth
When it comes to your Shiba Inu’s teeth, brushing is needed at least two or three times a week to remove tartar and bacteria lurking inside his mouth. Daily brushing is even better for preventing gum disease and bad breath. Providing your Shiba with chew toys can help a lot, as well as using dental treats.
Cut your Shiba Inu nails regularly
Cut your Shiba’s nails as needed, preferably once or twice a month. If you hear your dog’s nails touching the floor, it means it’s the right time for trimming. Short nails keep the paws in good condition and prevent pain and injuries. They also protect you from scratches when your Shiba jumps on you from happiness. But be careful – dogs have blood vessels in their nails, so if you shorten them too much, bleeding can occur. If you are not sure how to do that, it is best to take him to the vet, to avoid any accidental injuries.
Shiba Inu maintenance of ears
Check your Shiba Inu’s ears for dirt, redness, or bad smell every week. Smelly odor indicates an
infection that will require an antibiotic treatment prescribed by your vet. To keep your Shiba’s ears healthy and clean, wipe them once a week with a cotton ball soaked in a gentle, PH-balanced ear cleaner. Do not put anything in the ear canal, just clean the outside.
Shiba Inu Maintenance – Things to keep in mind
Regularly checking your Shiba Inu’s paws and mouth are two important routines that can prevent your dog from certain health conditions.
While grooming your Shiba’s coat, pay attention to whether there are any wounds, rashes, or signs of infections such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation of the skin. Ears should be odorless, while the nose should be moist and free of crusts.
Teach your Shiba to get used to all these routines from an early age by using treats and rewards. That’s how he’ll create a positive association and won’t feel anxious and frightened.
