Lifespan of a Shiba Inu – How old does a Shiba get?

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What is the average Shiba Inu lifespan?

When you buy or adopt a Shiba Inu, you quickly form a bond with your new dog or puppy and may worry about what the future holds. How long will your Shiba Inu live? Dogs have a very short lifespan compared to humans, and it is often a difficult reality to acknowledge. Improving the odds with a healthy lifestyle can make a difference for the Shiba Inu lifespan.

An ancient breed
As a Japanese spitz breed, Shiba Inus are closely related to the Akita Inu, Hokkaido Ken, and Kai Ken. The Shiba is the smallest of these breeds, which look quite similar in appearance. The origin of these breeds dates back to AD 7, when breed records were established in Japan. DNA research has shown that they are among the oldest domesticated dog breeds.

Initially, there were three types of Shibas from different regions of Japan, but the breed is now recognized as one size and one type. They were originally bred for hunting birds and small game, and were occasionally used in the hunt for wild boars.

Because the Shiba is an ancient breed, they have a body that is well adapted to be physiologically efficient and healthy. They suffer less from the effects of targeted breeding programs of modern times.

How old does a Shiba Inu get?

If you enjoy good health, you can expect your Shiba to live around 12 to 15 years.

Lifespan of shiba inu: how old does a shiba inu get?

This is a good lifespan for a medium-sized dog, which means this breed generally has good health with few genetic issues. Spaying or neutering your Shiba may also extend his or her lifespan by eliminating the risk of reproductive cancers. However, this usually results in poorer health than if you let your Shiba remain intact.

Although the chance of your Shiba getting uterine or testicular cancer is very small. But the risk of other problems drastically increases when spaying or neutering. Therefore, it is better NOT to neuter, as this causes the least problems!

Shiba Inu Age: Puppy

In the early life stage of a Shiba Inu puppy, which usually lasts until about one year old, it is important to pay a lot of attention to socialization and training. During this period, the puppy learns about the world around him and develops his personality.

It is essential to build a strong bond and follow consistent routines to promote desired behavior. Additionally, good nutrition is crucial for healthy growth and development. It is also important to regularly check the health to ensure that the puppy gets a good start in life. You can easily do this yourself; a healthy pup is active and eats well. A sick pup does not.

Shiba Inu Age: Adult

The life stage of an adult Shiba Inu is a time of stability and maturation. At this point, the dog has reached adulthood and is usually between 1 and 8 years old. During this period, the Shiba Inu enjoys his adulthood, further developing its characteristic traits.

It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to maximize the lifespan of the Shiba Inu. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine health checks at the veterinarian. With the right care, a Shiba Inu can have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Shiba Inu Age: Senior

How to increase lifespan?

Genetic diseases in Shiba Inus

Shiba Inus are generally a healthy and strong breed, but they can experience some common health issues that occur in many different dog breeds. A healthy lifestyle and regular veterinary visits can significantly increase the chances that your Shiba’s lifespan will be extended.

Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation is a condition that causes problems in the knee joint and can lead to lameness, sometimes requiring surgery. If your Shiba is limping, especially in the back, you should take your dog to the vet for an examination.

Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia can also affect your Shiba and can be diagnosed by your veterinarian using X-ray imaging. A dog that seems stiff or weak in the back should be assessed by a veterinarian, and breeding dogs should be evaluated for good hips before participating in a breeding program and passing on this genetic disease to puppies.

Eye abnormalities
Eye abnormalities can also affect Shibas, such as progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Evaluation of your Shiba’s eyes can be done by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist.

Allergies
Allergies can also be a problem for Shiba Inus. Flea, food, or environmental allergies do not necessarily affect your dog’s lifespan, but they can affect their quality of life if not effectively treated by a veterinarian.

Training to improve your Shiba Inu’s lifespan
Training your dog can extend his or her lifespan by keeping your dog safely by your side and under control through verbal cues. Exercise also trains your dog’s brain and keeps him or her happy, contributing to good health. By training your Shiba Inu to recall on command, you increase the likelihood that he or she will lead a long and healthy life.

High-quality food for your Shiba Inu’s health

Choosing an excellent diet for your Shiba Inu can extend his or her lifespan by providing outstanding nutrition that supports bone and organ health. A high-quality dog food with various types of excellent protein sources and balanced nutrition will help your Shiba enjoy your company for many years.

It is also important to feed the right amounts and ensure your Shiba Inu gets enough exercise, as an overweight dog can have a shorter lifespan. Your dog’s veterinarian can help determine whether your Shiba’s weight is appropriate and healthy.

Enjoy the company of your Shiba Inu

Although dogs do not live as long as we would like them to, your Shiba Inu will have a long life with your care and dedication to his or her health, training, and nutrition.

Do you have questions about the lifespan of Shiba Inus? Leave your question in the comments. Remember that by providing your Shiba Inu with these basic needs, you can keep him or her healthy and enjoy many years of companionship.

Conclusion

• Regular veterinary visits
• Do NOT spay or neuter your Shiba Inu
• Test for genetic diseases so treatment can be given
• Training for obedience and safety
• A healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition and exercise

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