Buyer question
How long does a Shiba Inu live?
Our Animal Library gives the Shiba Inu a lifespan of 13–16 years.
Source: the Shiba Inu page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Shiba Inu in the Animal Library
The detail
An ancient Japanese spitz bred to flush small game in mountain brush, the Shiba is compact, bold and famously independent. Clean and cat-like indoors, it is also willful, prone to escaping and not interested in obeying on command.
- Best fit
- Patient, experienced owners
- Temperament
- Bold, independent, alert
What to weigh
Shibas are rarely safe off leash, can be possessive of food and toys, and often dislike handling. They scream when unhappy and may not get along with other dogs.