Shiba Inu: grooming and coat care for this independent Japanese breed

The Shiba Inu is a small hunting dog of Japanese origin with a striking fox-like appearance, a curled tail and a dense double coat. Many prospective owners think this compact dog needs little grooming, and for the most part that is true. Still, there are a few points worth paying attention to that make life with a Shiba Inu a lot more pleasant, for both the dog and the household.

A double coat with its own rhythm

The Shiba Inu’s coat consists of two layers: a soft, dense undercoat and stiff, straight guard hairs that protect the dog from wind and weather. This combination makes the coat naturally dirt- and water-repellent. Mud and dust often come off easily once the coat is dry, so you don’t have to bathe your dog as often as with many other breeds.

That does not mean, however, that no maintenance is needed. Especially during the moult, which usually happens twice a year, the Shiba Inu sheds large amounts of undercoat. If you don’t brush regularly at that time, you will soon find tufts of hair all over the house.

Brushing: the basis of good care

Outside the moulting periods, brushing your Shiba Inu once or twice a week is enough. This keeps the coat clean, removes loose hair and stimulates blood circulation in the skin. During the moult, daily brushing is recommended, sometimes even several times a day if the shedding is heavy.

• Use an undercoat brush or rake brush to remove the loose undercoat
• Work in layers, from bottom to top, so that you also reach the dense undercoat
• Always brush gently, as the Shiba Inu’s skin can be sensitive
• Combine this with a bristle brush to keep the guard hairs shiny

Many owners find that a thorough brushing session during the moult literally produces bags full of hair. This is completely normal and simply part of the breed.

Bathing: preferably not too often

Because the Shiba Inu’s coat largely keeps itself clean, bathing it too often is actually undesirable. Washing too frequently can damage the skin’s natural protective barrier, which can lead to dry or irritated skin. A bath a few times a year, or when the dog is really dirty, is usually enough.

The Shiba Inu is sometimes called the 'cat of the dog world', partly because of its self-cleaning coat and independent character.

A well-known saying among Shiba Inu enthusiasts

When bathing, always use a mild dog shampoo and rinse thoroughly so that no residue is left behind that could cause itching. Afterwards, dry the coat well; the thick undercoat in particular takes time to dry completely.

Nails, ears and eyes

Besides the coat, the nails, ears and eyes also deserve attention. Check the nails regularly and trim them when they get too long; this prevents a painful or unnatural position of the feet. The Shiba Inu’s erect ears are relatively well ventilated, but it is still wise to check them now and then for dirt or an unpleasant odour. The eyes can also be wiped clean with a damp cloth from time to time.

Grooming as a time to bond

The Shiba Inu is known for its independent, sometimes rather stubborn character. Regular grooming is therefore a great opportunity to build trust and get the dog used to being handled. Ideally, start brushing and touching the paws, ears and mouth from a young age, so that the dog comes to take it for granted.

With a consistent approach, a good brush and attention to the moulting periods, your Shiba Inu’s coat will stay healthy and well groomed without taking up a lot of time every day. If you notice skin problems, excessive itching or unexplained bald patches, always consult a vet to rule out underlying causes.