Shiba Inu - Common Health Concerns

Shiba Inu breeders and owners should take great care when attempting to breed this variety of dog. First look into the medical history and general health of the dogs in question.

The Shiba Inu is a generally healthy, active breed. They can thrive in the home or even outside, making them great multipurpose dogs. Shiba Inus need an average diet and everyday exercise like most dogs, which is a plus for those who do not want to hassle with special diets. Shiba Inu breeders like this low maintenance quality of their dogs, amongst other fine qualities. Their great agility alone is enough to assist them from abstaining from general injuries that could render other breeds helpless.

There are a couple of hereditary flaws which Shiba Inus are susceptible to that you should know about. However, they are usually not serious, and so should not be a cause for alarm.

The biggest concern you may have about breeding Shiba Inu dogs is the chance of them being born with Patellar Luxation. This condition causes the kneecap to separate from the dog's body. Luxation comes in several stages you should recognize. In stage one, the kneecap separates, but can be set back in it's place with the help of a veterinarian. In stage four of this disease the kneecap can not be replaced or moved back into place and can cause possible lameness or bowed legs.

Hip Dysphasia is another condition commonly found in Shiba Inus, as well as many other dog breeds. Alongside this are heredity eye defects which are widespread throughout the entire canine world. The most typical of these are cataracts. Studies have recently shown that female dogs are likelier to have eye defects than males are.

Still, the most common health issue found in Shiba Inus are allergies like "FAD," or Flea Allergy Dermatitis. Your dog will constantly try to scratch or chew their hair if they have FAD, so watch for these signs of allergies. This condition can usually be treated topically without a prescription from a veterinarian. However, more serious cases require the dog to receive injections.

Your Shiba Inu could have a potential problem with his dental health. Many breeds of small dogs who do not recieve good dental care have been known to succumb to early tooth loss, fragile jaws, and poorly aligned teeth.

Take the time to access a Shiba Inu's medical history, and get genetics testing as well as other testing done by your veterinarian before deciding on which dogs to breed.