How big do they get?

14”-16” at the shoulder, 18-25 lbs

Do they shed?

Yes, twice a year. Usually Spring and Fall – LOTS! (their undercoat) Light shedding may occur year round. No, they are not hypoallergenic although they do not develop doggie odour like some breeds.

Are they good off-leash?

No, generally Shibas are not known for their off-leash skills. They were bred to hunt and flush out small game. A securely fenced yard is required. If you are looking for an off-leash companion, this may not be the breed for you.

Are they good with kids?

Yes, but the children (especially the very young ones) need to be taught to treat the puppy gently and with respect. Playtime should be monitored. A bad experience with kids (being dropped, tortured in a corner all afternoon, etc.) can make any dog apprehensive. If the puppy is not going to be raised in a home with children it is still important to socialize them around nieces, nephews and neighbourhood children so they become accustomed to them.

Are they good with cats?

Yes, when raised with them. It is much easier to introduce a puppy to an adult cat than the other way around. The cat can hold its own and a swat on the nose is usually all it takes to let the puppy know who is running the show. Introducing a cat or kitten to an adult Shiba can be more difficult if they have not previously lived with one.

Can they be trained?

Yes. Social skills and housetraining come very easily. Formal obedience can be more of a challenge. Consistency and patience is required. Brains, not brawn, will find success with this breed. They are very intelligent.

How much exercise do they need?

Quite a bit, especially when they are young. This breed would not do well when confined to an apartment. They will find destructive things to do if they do not have an outlet for their energy. They do enjoy “down time” and snuggle time, too.

Do I really need my registration papers?

It doesn’t matter if you need them or not. When buying a dog represented as purebred you are entitled to CKC registration papers by law, without being asked to pay extra for them.

What is the difference between a pet and show quality puppy?

Quite often, nothing. Many pups placed in pet homes would do very well in the show ring. Sometimes a puppy placed in a pet home may not be exactly the look that the breeder desires or it may have a minor show fault (over/under bite, light coloured eye, etc.). The difference is the terms under which you purchase the dog. Pet pups are sold on a non-breeding contract meaning the dog cannot be bred and usually must be spayed or neutered as stipulated in your breeders’ supplementary contract. Show or Breeding dogs are sometimes put on a non-breeding contract at the time of purchase and the breeder will most likely have certain requirements that need to be completed before it is lifted.

What can I expect to pay?

For a pet, $800 and up, depending on the breeder and the area. For a show/breeding puppy $1500-$2000 again depending on the breeder and the area. “You Get What you Pay For” is quite often sound advice when looking for a companion that could be a part of your family for 15 or more years.

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