Shiba Inu Mix

Canis lupus familiaris

Last updated: February 8, 2025
Verified Verified by: AZ Animals Staff
Steve Bruckmann/Shutterstock.com

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Shiba Inu Mix Scientific Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Scientific Name
Canis lupus familiaris

Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals.

Shiba Inu Mix Locations

Shiba Inu Mix Locations

Shiba Inu Mix Facts

Diet
Omnivore

Shiba Inu Mix Physical Characteristics

Color
  • Red
  • Black
  • White
  • Tan

Shiba Inu Mix as a Pet:

General Health
Energy Level
Shedability
Trainability
Intelligence
Tendency to Chew
Size
Family and kid friendliness
Yappiness / Barking
Moderate
Separation Anxiety
Moderate
Preferred Temperature
Average climate
Exercise Needs
Moderate
Friendly With Other Dogs
Moderate
Pure bred cost to own
On average, the purchase price of a Shiba Inu puppy is $800 -$1,000. Annual upkeep for this dog may cost $750 a year.
Dog group
Non-sporting
Male weight
23-23 lbs
Female weight
17-17 lbs

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“They often have a foxlike appearance, but mixes can have a wide range of unique variations.”

Shiba Inu Mix Introduction

A Shiba Inu mix is a type of dog that results from breeding a Shiba Inu with another dog breed. Shiba Inus are a small, spitz-type breed that originated in Japan. They have a foxlike appearance and friendly, energetic personalities. When they mix with other breeds, their offspring can be a wide range of different looking dogs, with varying personalities and characteristics.

Purebred Shiba Inus can make good family companions, but they may not be the best choice for families with young children or other pets. Shiba Inus are intelligent, independent, and strong-willed, which can make them challenging to train and manage. They are also reserved and aloof with strangers. Additionally, they may not be as patient or tolerant with young children who are still learning how to interact with dogs. Shiba Inus may be aggressive or dominant towards other pets, especially when owners do not properly socialize them from an early age. Potential owners who are concerned about the drawbacks of a pure breed often explore options of mixed breeds that may not have these negative qualities.

The 30 different types of Shiba Inu Mixes

Shiba-pit mix

This is called a Shiba-pit. It’s a mix between a Shiba Inu and a pit bull.

There are a lot of different types of Shiba Inu mixes. These are 30 of the most popular:

  1. Siberian Husky mix (Shiba Husky)
  2. Welsh Corgi mix (Corgi Inu)
  3. German Shepherd mix (Shiba Inu German Shepherd)
  4. Chihuahua mix (Shiba Chi)
  5. Pomeranian mix (Shiba Pom)
  6. Miniature poodle mic (Shiba-poo or Poo-Shi, Shibadoodle, Shibapoo)
  7. Labrador Retriever mix (Shibador)
  8. Golden Retriever mix (Golden Shiba)
  9. Border Collie mix
  10. Pug mix (Shiba Pug)
  11. Chow Chow mix (Chowba or Chow Inu)
  12. Jack Russell Terrier mix (Jack Inu)
  13. Dachshund mix (Shibadach or Shibadox)
  14. Beagle mix (Shi-Beagle)
  15. Australian Shepherd mix (Aussie Shiba)
  16. American Eskimo mix (Imo-Inu)
  17. Alaskan Malamute mix (Shiba Malamute)
  18. Akita mix (Shibakita)
  19. Miniature Schnauzer mix (Schnu)
  20. Cairn Terrier mix (Shairn-Inu)
  21. Miniature Pinscher mix (ShiPin)
  22. Boston Terrier mix (Shibos)
  23. Cocker Spaniel mix (Shocker)
  24. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mix (Cava Inu)
  25. Papillon mix (Papi-Inu)
  26. Shetland Sheepdog mix (Sheltie Inu)
  27. Pitbull mix (Shiba-Pit)
  28. Samoyed mix
  29. Basenji mix
  30. Bulldog mix

3 Pros and Cons of Owning Shiba Inu Mixes

Pros!Cons!
Intelligent and trainable
Shiba Inus are a highly intelligent breed, and they are known for their ability to learn and respond to commands. When they are mixed with other breeds, they can inherit even more intelligence and trainability, making them easy to manage.
Challenging to train
The Shiba Inus side of a mixed breed is noted for being strong-willed and independent, and they can be challenging to train and manage. Mixes who inherit a lot of Shiba genes can be difficult to control.
Friendly and loyal
Shiba Inus are known for their friendly and affectionate personalities, and they are very loyal to their owners. Combined with other breeds, they can inherit traits that make them great companion animals.
Not the best with young children
They can be reserved and aloof with strangers, and they may not be patient or tolerant with young children who are still learning how to interact with dogs.
Low maintenance
Mixes can inherit Shiba Inus’ low-maintenance traits, making them a good choice for busy families or those with limited time to devote to dog care.
Dominant towards other pets
They can be aggressive towards other pets, especially if they are not properly socialized from an early age. Sometimes they do not adjust well to homes with multiple pets.

The Best Dog Food For Shiba Inu Mixes

When choosing the best dog food for a Shiba Inu mix, it is important to consider their unique dietary needs and preferences. Shiba Inus are a small, energetic breed, and they have a high metabolism, which means they require a diet that is high in protein and fat to support their active lifestyle. They also have a tendency to gain weight easily, so it is important to choose a dog food for their specific size and activity level.

A-Z Animals recommends Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. This dog food contains real chicken and fish as the first ingredients, and it contains high-quality protein and fat to support muscle mass and energy levels. It also has added fruits and vegetables for extra nutrition, and it does not contain any corn, wheat, or soy.

Best for Small Breeds
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Healthy Weight Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Chicken and brown rice recipe for active small breeds
  • Reduced calories from fat to help maintain ideal weight
  • Smaller kibble for small jaws
  • Supports healthy joints and mobility, immune health
Check Chewy Check Amazon

Shiba Inu Mix Size and Weight

Shiba Inu males range from 14.5 to 16.5 inches tall and weigh up to 23 pounds, fully grown. Females can be 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall and weigh up to 17 pounds.

Height (Male)14.5 to 16.5” Tall
Height (Female)13.5 to 15.5” Tall
Weight (male)23 lbs, fully grown
Weight (female)17 lbs, fully grown

Shiba Inu Mix Common Health Issues

Like all breeds, Shiba Inu mixes can be prone to certain health conditions. Some common health problems that may affect these mixes include:

  • Hip dysplasia – This is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, which can cause pain and lameness. It is more common in larger breeds, but it can also affect smaller breeds like Shiba Inus.
  • Ear infections – Shiba Inus have long, drooping ears, which can make them prone to ear infections. Bacteria, yeast, or mites may cause these infections, and symptoms can include redness, swelling, and discharge.
  • Eye diseases – Shiba Inus are prone to certain eye problems, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Cataracts can cause cloudy vision, and progressive retinal atrophy can lead to vision loss.
  • Allergies – Shiba Inus are prone to skin allergies, which can cause symptoms such as redness, itching, and hair loss. Environmental factors like pollen or mold can cause these allergies. Certain food ingredients, such as specific proteins or carbohydrates, can cause them too.

It is important for owners of Shiba Inu mixes to work with a veterinarian to identify and manage any health conditions that may develop, and to provide regular health check-ups and preventive care to ensure they live a long and happy life.

Shiba Inu Temperament and Behavior

Shiba/German shepherd mix

This utterly adorable dog is a Shiba Inu-German Shepherd mix.

The temperament and behavior of a Shiba Inu mix will depend on the individual dog and the breed they are mixed with. Shiba Inus are a highly intelligent and independent breed, and they have friendly and affectionate personalities. However, they can be reserved and aloof with strangers, and they may be protective of their owners and their territory. They are also energetic and playful, and they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

When they are mixed with another breed, they can inherit some of the characteristics of that breed. These genetics will affect their temperament and behavior. For example, if they are mixed with a more laid-back and relaxed breed, they may be less energetic and more easy-going. If they are mixed with a more active breed, they may be even more energetic and playful. It is important for potential owners to research all breeds involved and consider their temperament and behavior when choosing a mix.

How To Take Care of Shiba Inu Mixes

Maintenance and Grooming

Shiba Inus have a thick, double-coated fur well-suited to a wide range of climates, but it sheds. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat healthy and looking its best. They require regular brushing, combing, and trimming to remove tangles and mats, and to keep their coat clean and free of debris. These dogs also require regular baths to keep their coat and skin clean and healthy, and to prevent any skin conditions from developing.

Because in this article we’re talking about Shiba Inu mixes, keep in mind that their coats and grooming needs may be influenced by their other parent as well. So you’ll have to see how your individual dog’s hair grows and what the options for grooming are.

Training

Training a Shiba Inu mix can be challenging. Some common training challenges that owners may face include:

  • Potty training: Shiba Inus can be pretty stubborn and might resist potty training. Get a consistent routine going and praise them lavishly when they get it right to reinforce that behavior.
  • Leash training: These dogs are energetic and can pull strong enough to injure your arm or wrist. Use a harness or no-pull leash.
  • Barking: Shiba Inus are really vocal dogs. They tell the world when they’re excited, scared, bored, whatever. Be consistent in training them. Persistence will pay off, and you’ll enjoy your dog a lot more when it is “seen but not heard.”

Exercise

These are really energetic, playful, silly dogs. You have to give them lots of mental and physical stimulation or they will tear your house apart. Take them on watch, play fetch, do agility or obedience training. Don’t think of these things as “one more thing you have to do,” but as spending time with your puppy, which is one of the things you love to do. Let it be stress-relieving for you both.

Puppies

Shiba Inu puppies

Here are some basic instructions for caring for a Shiba Inu mix puppy:

  1. Feed them a healthy, quality puppy food formulated for their nutritional needs.
  2. Keep a regular feeding schedule so their digestion doesn’t get messed up and so you can regulate how much food they are eating.
  3. Make water available to them all day.
  4. Potty train your puppy. Put in the time and effort to do it consistently from the beginning so it will not be a drawn-out and frustrating process for you and the dog. You don’t want them still having accidents in the house a year from now.
  5. Provide your puppy with plenty of socialization with other dogs and people and training in how to behave in new situations. These issues are easier to shape and correct when they are young.
  6. Schedule regular vet visits, make sure your puppy is vaccinated, and get them spayed or neutered.

With any puppy, a consistent routine, plenty of exercise, a healthy diet, and lots of love and attention are mostly what’s needed, under the guidance of a professional veterinarian.

Shiba Inu Mixes and Children

Shiba Inus are energetic and playful, but they also have a mind of their own and can be skittish with strangers. Sometimes they get irritated with small children who pull on their fur, hit them with toys, or make sudden movements. Both your dog and your children will need some training to get along. Small children should always be under adult supervision during doggie playtime.

Dogs similar to Shiba Inu Mixes

Check out these dogs similar to Shiba Inu mixes:

  •  Finnish Spitz – These dogs are from Finland but they are bigger and have a longer coat with a reddish-gold color.
  •  Shikoku – A Japanese dog breed that is a little bigger, more active, and less fluffy than a Shiba Inu.
  •  Korean Jindo – A calm, dignified breed similar to the Shiba Inu.

Famous Shiba Inu Mixes

  • A Shiba Inu named Mari saved her puppies and her elderly owner after an earthquake in 2004 in Japan.
  • Maru Taro is a popular Shiba Inu with 2.6 million followers on Instagram.
  • Kabosu is a Shiba Inu meme that is popular on the internet.
  • Michael Jordan owns a Shiba Inu.

The Shiba Inu mix is originally a Japanese breed. Even if that’s not your own culture, you might like to choose a Japanese name for your pupper.

Male Names:

  • Asahi – “sunlight”
  • Haruto – “flying”
  • Hiroto – “big”
  • Kaito – “sea, ocean”
  • Jiro – “second son”

Female Names:

  • Aneko – “older sister”
  • Chika – “near”
  • Jin – “tender”
  • Kaya – “resting place”
  • Sato – “sugar”
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About the Author

Drew Wood

Drew is an emotional support human to three dogs and a cat. In addition to his love of animals, he enjoys scary movies, Brazilian jiu jitsu, and Legos.

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Shiba Inu Mix FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

How much does a Shiba Inu Mix cost to own?

On average, the purchase price of a Shiba Inu puppy is $800 -$1,000. The price may be more or less for a mix depending on how desirable it is and difficult to find. Annual upkeep for this dog may cost $750 a year.

Is the Shiba Inu Mix good with kids?

It’s best to keep Shiba Inus with adults, older children, and teens. They can be impatient and snappy with smaller children who try to play with them in unpredictable ways. However, depending on what breed your dog is mixed with and how consistent its training is, it may do better with young children than a purebred.

How long does a Shiba Inu Mix live?

Shiba Inus live 12-16 years on average.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia / Accessed December 14, 2022
  2. Dogtime / Accessed December 14, 2022
  3. Petplan / Accessed December 14, 2022
  4. Wagave / Accessed December 14, 2022
  5. PetMD / Accessed December 14, 2022
  6. Japanese Dog Breed Guide / Accessed December 14, 2022
  7. K9web / Accessed December 14, 2022
  8. AKC / Accessed December 14, 2022