Is a Shiba Inu right for me, my family, and my lifestyle?  The following are typical Shiba Inu characteristics and should be considered carefully before you adopt a Shiba Inu:

General:
* Very intelligent and learn very quickly
* High energy
     ~ Must be taken on regular big walks or given access to a fenced-in yard to play in
* Not ideal for families with small children
     ~ Do not tolerate being treated like a toy and may snap or bite if they are
      ~ Should never be left alone with young children
* Can be mouthy when playing (may bite)
     ~ Should be watched carefully around children and other animals
* Shedding
      ~ Some shedding year-round; entire undercoat sheds approximately 2 times a year in the Spring and Fall

When inside:
* Prone to door bolting
     ~ Must always be watched carefully when around doors leading to the outside
      ~ Should be kept away from doors leading to the outside
* Can become bored easily
     ~ May chew furniture and shoes and/or dig up carpet if not provided with toys, attention, interaction,
           and other stimulation
* Like to be clean
      ~ Dislike soiling their living space and are generally easy to housebreak

When outside:
* Strong prey drive and excellent runners
      ~ Must always be on a leash or tie-out unless in a securely fenced-in area
      ~ Must always be monitored closely when outside, even if in a securely fenced-in area or on a tie-out
      ~ Capable of jumping high and may escape over low fences
      ~ Are not reliable on electric, underground or invisible type fences
* Like to eat grass

Obedience:
* Very independent and stubborn — obedience training may be quite challenging

Health:
* Prone to glaucoma, cataracts, hip dysplasia, and luxating patellas
* May develop food allergies
* Average life expectancy is 12-17 years

View a news segment about SIRA and our Shibas at http://www.wciu.com/youandme.php?section=home&assetID=10001090.

For additional information, read The Misanthropic Shiba at http://shibainus.ca/.