Here’s your Shiba Inu Care Guide with the estimated price in both USD ($) and Malaysian Ringgit (RM)! πβ
π Ultimate Guide: How to Take Care of a Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is a loyal, intelligent, and independent breed that requires proper care, training, and attention. Whether you’re a first-time owner or already have one, this guide will help you take the best care of your Shiba Inu.
π Setting Up Your Home for a Shiba Inu
Before bringing a Shiba Inu home, ensure you have:
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A secure fenced yard β Shibas love to run and explore but have a high prey drive, so an enclosed area is necessary.
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A comfortable bed β Shibas enjoy a cozy space to rest.
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Food and water bowls β Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are best to prevent allergies.
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Leash and collar/harness β A harness is recommended as they can slip out of collars.
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Toys for mental stimulation β Puzzle toys and chew toys help keep them entertained.
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Crate for training β A crate helps with house training and provides a safe space.
π° Estimated Initial Setup Cost:
- USD: $100 – $400
- RM: RM 500 – RM 2,000
π Diet & Nutrition
A healthy diet ensures a long and active life for your Shiba Inu.
β Recommended Diet:
β High-quality dog food (dry kibble or wet food)
β Lean proteins β Chicken, beef, turkey, fish
β Healthy fats β Fish oil, flaxseed
β Vegetables β Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes
β Fruits β Apples (seedless), blueberries, bananas
π« Foods to Avoid:
β Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol β Toxic to dogs
β Onions, garlic β Can cause anemia
β Grapes, raisins β Can lead to kidney failure
β Cooked bones β Can splinter and cause internal injuries
β Excess salt, sugar, and human junk food
π‘ Feeding Schedule:
- Puppies (8 weeks – 6 months): 3-4 small meals per day
- Adults (6 months+): 2 meals per day
π° Estimated Monthly Food Cost:
- USD: $30 – $100
- RM: RM 150 – RM 400
πββοΈ Exercise & Activity Needs
Shiba Inu is an active and energetic breed that needs daily physical and mental stimulation.
πΎ Recommended Activities:
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Daily walks (at least 30-60 minutes)
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Fetch and agility training to keep them engaged
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Hiking or jogging for adventurous Shibas
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Obedience training to prevent stubborn behavior
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Interactive toys and puzzles to challenge their mind
β οΈ Important: Always keep your Shiba Inu on a leash outdoors. They have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals.
π° Estimated Cost for Toys & Exercise Gear:
- USD: $20 – $100 per year
- RM: RM 100 – RM 500 per year
π Grooming & Hygiene
Shiba Inu is known for being naturally clean (they groom themselves like cats), but regular maintenance is still needed.
π Coat Care:
β Brush 2-3 times a week to remove loose fur
β During shedding season (twice a year), brush daily
β Use a deshedding tool to manage the thick double coat
β Bathe every 2-3 months (or when dirty) β Overbathing can dry out their skin
π¦· Dental Care:
β Brush teeth 2-3 times a week to prevent dental diseases
β Use dog-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste)
π¦Ύ Nail & Paw Care:
β Trim nails once a month to avoid discomfort
β Check paw pads for cracks or injuries
π Ear Cleaning:
β Check ears weekly for wax buildup or infections
β Use a damp cotton ball to gently clean the ears
π° Estimated Grooming Cost:
- USD: $60 – $300 per year
- RM: RM 300 – RM 1,500 per year
π Training & Socialization
Shiba Inu is intelligent but stubborn, so training requires patience and consistency.
πΆ Basic Training Commands:
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Sit, Stay, Come β Essential for control
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Leash Training β Prevents pulling and running off
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Crate Training β Helps with housebreaking and anxiety
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No Biting or Jumping β Start early to curb bad habits
π€ Socialization:
Shibas can be territorial and aloof with strangers, so early socialization is crucial.
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Introduce them to different people, pets, and environments
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Expose them to loud noises and new experiences
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Use positive reinforcement (treats & praise)
π° Estimated Training Cost:
- USD: $200 – $600 per year
- RM: RM 1,000 – RM 3,000 per year
π Shiba Inu Care Checklist
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Provide high-quality food (protein-rich and balanced)
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Daily exercise (walks, playtime, and mental stimulation)
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Regular brushing (2-3 times a week, daily during shedding season)
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Bathe every 2-3 months (avoid overbathing)
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Trim nails monthly to prevent overgrowth
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Brush teeth at least 2-3 times per week
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Clean ears weekly to prevent infections
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Socialize with people and other pets early
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Consistent training (firm but positive reinforcement)
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Vet checkups at least once a year
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Keep them on a leash outdoors (high prey drive)
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Provide interactive toys to prevent boredom
π° Total Cost of Owning a Shiba Inu (USD & RM)
| Expense | Estimated Cost per Year (USD) | Estimated Cost per Year (RM) |
|---|---|---|
| High-quality food | $300 – $800 | RM 1,500 – RM 4,000 |
| Vet checkups & health care | $200 – $500 | RM 1,000 – RM 2,500 |
| Grooming & supplies | $60 – $300 | RM 300 – RM 1,500 |
| Training & socialization | $200 – $600 | RM 1,000 – RM 3,000 |
| Toys & accessories | $20 – $100 | RM 100 – RM 500 |
| Total Cost | $900 – $2,500 per year | RM 5,000 – RM 12,500 per year |
π Fun Facts About Shiba Inu
π One of Japanβs oldest and most popular dog breeds
π Famous for their “Shiba Scream” β a loud, high-pitched noise when upset
π The breed became famous due to the Doge meme πΆβ¨
π Naturally clean and low odor, unlike many other dog breeds
π The first Shiba Inu was brought to the U.S. in 1954
π― Final Thoughts
Shiba Inu is a brave, independent, and loving breed that requires firm training, regular exercise, and proper care. If youβre ready for the challenge, a Shiba Inu will be a loyal and lifelong companion!
