Shibas are a very active breed but settles nicely into daily life. They are well known for their ability to form a lasting strong bond with their family. Loyality is one of their best attributes. They are very family oriented and want to be involved in the daily activities. Even though shibas are a double coated breed they are more suited to indoor living. Due to this double coat, they DO shed. They typically shed once in the spring and once in the fall. Professional grooming and "Furminating" is highly recommended. They are a very clean breed. While on walks, my kids (shibas) will often walk around puddles trying to avoid getting wet and dirty.
Shibas do well with experienced dog owners. New owners can do well too but shibas are known to have dominate personalities. Any prospective pet owner must be commited to completing Puppy Kindergarten and atleast two levels of Obedience. If left to their own devices, shibas can rule the household. They can be stubborn, dog aggressive and sometimes even people aggressive. When proper breeding, socialization and training are in place, shibas can be the most loving, gentle tender hearts you can ask for.
Being a hunting breed from Japan, shibas are explorers by nature. They were originally bred to hunt small birds and larger game in packs. Because of this, they are nearly always untrustworthy off leash. A secure fenced yard is ideal. If a fenced yard is not available then a leash walk for potty breaks or a yard tie is an adequate substitute. As you can see, shibas are not for everyone.
I think one of their attributes that attracts people to the breed is how little noise they make. Shibas have the ability to bark they just choose not to. If raised with other barkers, shibas will follow suit and join in with the gang. Even on walks my dogs will stop and stare when faced with noisy dogs at the fence. It is alsmost as if they are trying to figure out what all the fuss is about.
Since shibas are so clean, they are easy to potty train. Kennel training is the most effective with shibas; they really hate a soiled cage. I encourage all pet owners to crate train their puppies. Crate/kennel trained dogs treat them like their room. They will go there for quite time or just a nice peaceful nap.
Finally, shibas enjoy any and all activity you can throw at them then at the end of the day, will curl up for a nice nap as they enjoy their downtime as well. They are a very unobtrusive breed and once again, blend nicely into daily living.
If you take only one thing from this page, please remember, be sure a shiba is right for you and your lifestyle. Shibas can easily live 12-14 years and is a huge commitment not to be taken lightly.
Leslie