White Shiba Inu Guide
The Shiba Inu emerges as one of the oldest canine breeds originating from the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan. It ranks among the elite group of six distinct and indigenous Japanese breeds, which includes the Shikoku, Kai Ken, Kishu, Hokkaido, and Akita. It is common for many to confuse the Shiba with its counterpart, the Akita, due to their striking similarities.
In the early 19th century, indigenous Japanese dog breeds, including the Shiba, were on the brink of extinction due to the ravages of war, the introduction of Western dog breeds to Japan, and the spread of diseases.
In an effort to save them from obscurity, indigenous Japanese breeders embarked on a selective breeding endeavor. They skillfully merged the three distinct strains of Shiba – the Shinshu Inu, Mino, and San-In, into a single breed. The main goal was to standardize the breed while infusing subtle variations. The pristine white/cream coat of the Shiba Inu is just one of the results of this centuries-old breeding program.
This immaculate Japanese dog boasts one of the most coveted coat colors, with a body of pristine white adorned with elegant urajiro markings. Urajiro represents a Japanese concept that the National Shiba Club of America has clearly defined to uniquely refer to the characteristic white markings present on the Shiba Inu breed.
The White Shiba Inu
In this first part, you will discover a comprehensive presentation of this Japanese dog breed with its immaculate coat, including their origin, the rarity of their white coat, the genetic process behind it, as well as their heritage.
I will also explain their distinctions compared to other shades of this breed, as well as various recognitions from clubs and their lineage.
What are these white Japanese dogs?
The White Shiba stands out among the shades of Shiba with its unique and inherently beautiful coat, making it particularly prized among enthusiasts.
It is important to keep in mind that, despite its distinctive color, the White Shiba Inu belongs to the same breed as other varieties, with the main difference being the shade of its coat.
3 Things to Remember About the White Shiba
This canine captures the interest and affection of many people. This breed, originating from Japan, is known for its elegant beauty and distinctive character. Here are 3 things to keep in mind:
Japanese Breed, Not Chinese
It’s a dog breed originating from Japan. It’s one of the oldest and smallest breeds in the country. The White Shiba is a color variant of this breed, which is typically red or sesame in color.
Independent Nature
Shibas are known for their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They tend to be proud and reserved, which can make them more independent than some other dog breeds. They can also be wary of strangers.
Exercise Needs
Despite their small size, Shibas are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy walks and play, making them great companions for active individuals.
The White Shiba Inu’s Origin and Color
The White Shiba Inu originates from Japan, being one of the country’s oldest breeds. However, its white color is not as ancient as the breed itself.
In the early 19th century, Japan was going through a tumultuous period, facing various challenges. It was a time marked by conflicts, epidemics, and the introduction of Western breeds from the Western world.
In this context, the Shiba breed was on the verge of extinction. It was at this moment that native Japanese breeders decided to consolidate the breed into a single entity. At the time, three distinct strains of the breed, namely the Shinshu, Mino, and San-In, were meticulously crossed to create a single breed.
Controversy Over White Coat
The white coat is highly prized among avid admirers of our Japanese dogs, however, this color has sparked some controversy regarding breed standards.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the White Shiba Inu is considered a major fault as the white urajiro area is not distinct and blends with the white base of the coat. Therefore, it is not considered a preferred coat color according to the standards, although the White Shiba is still recognized as an integral part of the breed.
Color genetics
Understanding coat color variations remains complex when delving into the realm of genetics. In the recessive form of the E gene, all black pigments are suppressed, unlike the E gene which allows the presence of black hairs at least once in a lifetime.
According to recent research, the presence of two copies of the E gene, i.e., EE, is responsible for the white coat color.
How do they differ from other Shibas?
The white Shiba undeniably stands out as a unique breed, although the red Shiba remains the most common color within the breed.
To be precise, the only difference between the white Shiba and other colored coats is a simple layer of fur. All biological similarities are expected between each color variant.
Naturally, all these shades belong to the same fundamental breed. However, the beauty and elegance of the white coat undeniably set them apart.
They sport a coat of pleasing and immaculate color, embodying a sophistication that unquestionably makes them unique compared to their counterparts.
Kennel Club recognition and pedigree
The Shiba Inu breed was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1992, with the first documented Shiba Inu in the same year.
In 1993, it was admitted to the AKC’s Non-Sporting Group. However, the breed had already made its way to the United States in 1954.
Each year, purebred white Shiba Inus are registered with the British Kennel Club because they perfectly match the breed standards. If you have a desire to own a purebred white Shiba Inu, you will need to express your interest with local breeders.
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Information About the White Shiba Breed
In this second part, we will delve deep into the general appearance, personality, behavior, temperament, coat variations, and color nuances available within the breed.
We will also focus on details regarding size, growth stages, and the average lifespan of this fascinating breed.
Appearance
The Shiba is renowned for its appearance, which evokes that of a fox, notably thanks to its ears and face. However, it should be noted that there is no biological relationship between our Japanese dogs and foxes. These two species are genetically distinct. Some people also confuse the Shiba Inu with the Siberian Husky due to their similarities.
Although Siberian Huskies have an appearance closer to wolves but also share traits with the Shiba, it is essential to mention that the appearance of the White Shiba is determined according to the standards of the Spitz breed. It is one of the six Spitz breeds of Japan.
It is characterized by its pointed or slightly upturned ears, a face with a tapered muzzle and an innocent expression, as well as a double coat of dense fur covering its entire body, with short hair.
The iconic feature of these dogs is their curled tail, adorned with long, dense, and curved hairs towards the back. This clearly indicates their belonging to the Spitz breed family.
The tail not only serves as the distinctive mark of Spitz breeds but also acts as a protective shield for our Japanese dogs in cold weather. It allows them to shield their nose and face from winter cold by curling it. Additionally, these dogs have well-developed muscles and a compact body, with a white urajiro area.
Personality and Temperament
The personality of the Shiba Inu is commonly described through three Japanese terms: Kan-i, Ryosei, and Soboku. All the distinctive and remarkable traits of this breed find their essence in these three words.
The combined meaning of the latter two words, Ryosei and Soboku, conveys an alert and gentle nature in these dogs.
As for the first word, Kan-i, it conveys confidence, power, and strength. Anything that piques their interest or attracts them prompts them to launch themselves with all the power and strength they possess until their goal is achieved.
Their mindset is determined, only stopping when the task is accomplished. This may give the impression of stubborn and untamed behavior, but one must not forget the meaning of Ryosei and Soboku. These balanced traits form the distinctive personality and temperament of Shibas.
Misconceptions about their braying behavior
A common misconception about Shibas is that they are prone to a lot of barking or crying in specific situations, attributing this to a natural or genetic trait.
These particular situations include bathing and nail trimming. However, this belief does not reflect the overall reality. In fact, it results from a lack of proper training. The truth is that this breed is rather quiet if properly trained.
Recommendations and suggestions
Despite all the essential qualities of a good dog, the Shiba Inu doesn’t readily adapt to all types of people.
It’s not recommended for young owners to adopt this breed. However, if they choose to do so, it will require a significant amount of patience and effort on their part.
As a video is worth a thousand words
In this video, you will see a White Shiba playing with a classic (red) Shiba:
Types and Coat Colors
The coat of all Shibas, including the White Shiba, consists of a thick double layer, comprising the inner coat and the outer coat. The inner coat of the breed is soft and fluffy, while the outer coat is straight and slightly coarse.
There are four main coat colors, namely:
- White – White coat is the rarest among the breed. This white color is closely related to the gene of Red Shibas. It tends to lighten on the belly. Unfortunately, the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize this color due to its almost imperceptible white markings.
- Red / Orange – Red coat is the most common and popular among Shibas. It’s the original color of the breed, giving them a fox-like appearance.
- Black and Tan – Black and tan coat is a unique color in Shibas, featuring a tricolor coat. Yes, you read that right! The base is white and black, adorned with tan points and white urajiro markings.
- Black Sesame – Black sesame is one of the rarest colors in the breed. The base of this coat is always red, with black tipping covering their entire body. To be recognized by official canine show organizations, the proportion of black color should not exceed 50%.
Size and Weight
These vary depending on the size of the dog and its gender; generally, females are often smaller than males.
For example, my Shiba, Aïko, is narrower than the Shibas you may encounter in the parks. However, he weighs 10.5kg.
Average Size and Weight of an Adult White Shiba Inu |
||
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Height | Weight |
| Male | 35-44 cm | 8-11 kg |
| Female | 33-41 cm | 6.7-9 kg |
Growth Chart for Male and Female White Shiba Inu |
||
|---|---|---|
| Age | Male | Female |
| 3 months | 3.4 to 4.5 kg | 2.9 to 3.5 kg |
| 4 months | 4.5 to 5.8 kg | 3.5 to 5.4 kg |
| 5 months | 5.6 to 7.7 kg | 5 to 6.1 kg |
| 6 months | 6.3 to 8.6 kg | 5.4 to 7.2 kg |
| 7 months | 6.8 to 9.5 kg | 5.8 to 8 kg |
| 8 months | 7.2 to 10 kg | 6.3 to 8.2 kg |
| 9 months | 7.4 to 10.2 kg | 6.3 to 8.4 kg |
| 10 months | 7.7 to 10.4 kg | 6.5 to 8.6 kg |
| 11 months | 8 to 10.8 kg | 6.8 to 8.8 kg |
| 12 months | 8 to 10.8 kg | 6.8 to 9 kg: Growth stops 🦊 |
| 13 months | 8 to 11.1 kg | 6.8 to 9 kg |
| 14 months | 8.2 to 11.4 kg: Growth stops 🦊 | 6.8 to 9 kg |
Note: Larger male Shibas reach their adult size around 14 months, while smaller males typically stop growing around 12 months. Female Shibas, on the other hand, generally finish their growth at around 12 months.
If you are undecided between adopting a male or female Shiba, feel free to check out our latest articles for additional advice.
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Guide: Taking Care of Your Shiba’s Health
In this third part, you will find a brief care guide for the white Shiba Inu. The lifespan of any species depends greatly on the nature and level of care provided by its owner.
I will cover various aspects related to health and care, from food and dietary requirements to grooming and cleaning needs.
Dietary Needs and Nutrition
It is of paramount importance to establish a balance in your Shiba Inu’s diet. To be an exemplary owner of a healthy dog, it is essential to understand the actions to take, avoid, and the best practices to increase the longevity of your Japanese canine companion.
Changing Food Brands
If you are not comfortable with the food and diet recommended by your breeder or the person from whom you adopted a puppy, it is entirely possible to make a change.
However, it’s important to note that you should not make a sudden change in the diet, as it could upset the puppy’s stomach. The best approach is to consult with a breeder and gradually transition to the new diet.
You may be wondering how to precisely make this dietary change and in what proportions to mix the old and new food. Don’t worry; the transition between the old and new diet should be done in the following proportions.
| Week | New Food | Old Food |
| Week 1 | One quarter (1/4) | Three quarters (3/4) |
| Week 2 | Half (2/4) | Half (2/4) |
| Week 3 | Three quarters (3/4) | One quarter (1/4) |
| Week 4 | Switch to the new food | - |
Feeding plan for the White Shiba
To establish effective and nutritious meal plans for puppies, it’s essential to lay the foundation for strong health. This prepares them to face various challenges related to their well-being and physical fitness. A puppy’s diet should be calorie and nutrient-dense.
According to the National Shiba Club of America, a Shiba puppy should have a diet containing approximately 15 to 18% fat and around 30% protein.
For adult Shibas, the recommended portion size typically ranges from half a cup to 1.5 cups per day, divided into two meals. However, it’s important to allow puppies to have free access to their food bowl.
Puppies tend to eat a lot, which is normal and necessary for their growth and development. However, it’s crucial to closely monitor their food intake, as they can easily gain weight.
The nearest veterinarian is the best person to create a perfect meal plan because every dog is unique and has specific needs.
The formula for daily calorie intake
Fortunately, there is a formula that allows you to determine the exact number of calories your puppy should consume based on its weight.
The recommended daily calorie intake is calculated as follows: 30 x weight in kg + 70.
For example, a Shiba Inu weighing 8 kg would need 30 x 8 + 70 = 310 calories per day, according to this formula.
Aiko & Lucas
In the car, off to Saint Gaudens, to get a Shiba Inu. That's where I first saw Aïko at a breeding place called "La maison du Shiba."
It was the beginning of an incredible adventure, and today, Aïko is a traveling Shiba: 🇫🇷 🇧🇪 🇨🇦
And no, it's not a joke!
I'm Lucas Fonseque, a digital nomad and SEO expert consultant. Besides work in my life, I have my Shiba Inu whom I love more than anything: Aïko 🦊 ❤️
Exercise requirements
Regular exercise is one of the essential factors that can contribute to extending the lifespan of your Shiba Inu. These dogs are naturally very energetic, with a high level of vigor and a strong tracking ability, which was once used for hunting.
Therefore, they require a significant amount of both mental and physical stimulation.
An adult Shiba Inu should receive about 30 to 40 minutes of daily walks to release their energy. You can vary the activities you share with your dog, as these can also serve as a form of exercise.
If you enjoy mountain hikes or outdoor adventures, this is an ideal breed to accompany you. Their highly developed sense of smell allows them to track scents quickly.
If you live in such an environment, they can become one of the most exciting breeds to have. You can even take them camping as they always stay by your side.
However, it’s important to note that they can sometimes get distracted by an interesting scent, and they only stop when they’ve caught or followed that scent source. This behavior can be controlled through proper training.
It’s recommended to become familiar with using a leash or harness to easily and safely control them.
Training requirements
Training requirements are essential to raise a well-balanced, well-behaved, and obedient White Shiba Inu.
It’s a stubborn breed that requires thorough training and early socialization to adapt to different environments.
It’s true that our Japanese companions are not the easiest to train, especially for new owners with no experience with this breed.
Training can be challenging but not insurmountable with patience and consistent effort from the owner.
Training Methods
There are various training methods, but it’s important to choose one that suits the personality of Shiba Inus. The most effective method for training a Shiba is reward-based training.
When they perform a task, whether successfully or not, it’s important to reward them with treats. If their performance falls short, praise and encouragement can motivate them to improve.
It’s essential to remember the three key words that characterize training: patience, consistency, and perseverance. These dogs are known for their reserved nature and limited affection.
By investing all your efforts into positive reinforcement, your Shiba Inu will learn more quickly, and you’ll strengthen your bond with them.
Cleaning and grooming needs
You’d be surprised at how concerned this breed is about cleanliness. Shiba Inus do not enjoy getting dirty and always do their best to clean themselves.
This gives them an advantage in terms of cleanliness and grooming, and they are even inclined to help puppies take care of themselves.
Here are the cleaning and grooming requirements:
– A bath every three or four months is sufficient because their double coat is naturally odorless.
– They should be brushed once a week to remove dead hair.
– It is not advisable to give more than one bath every three or four months, as it could dry out their skin.
– Nails should be trimmed every two weeks to a month.
– It is essential to regularly inspect different parts of their body, such as ears and eyes, for redness, bad odors, or any signs of infection.
Advantages and disadvantages of owning a Shiba Blanc
Dogs aren’t perfect, just like human beings, they have their positive and negative sides that you need to take into account as a current or future owner.
Here are some of the pros and cons of adoption:
Advantages
✅ They can enjoy being the center of attention, which can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on individual personalities.
✅ They have an elegant and appealing look.
✅ They are observant, intelligent, thoughtful, and sensitive dogs.
✅ Their bodies are harmoniously proportioned, showcasing their agility, power, and strength.
✅ They are known for their loyalty and deep bond. Once they form a strong bond, it’s hard to break.
✅ White Shibas are naturally healthy and have a relatively long lifespan, around 12 to 16 years.
Disadvantages
❌ White Shibas can come across as a bit aloof, not displaying their affection openly.
❌ Inadequate training can sometimes lead them to bark or whine in certain situations.
❌ They might completely ignore you once they catch a scent that interests them.
❌ They are naturally stubborn and cannot be forced to do something they don’t want to.
❌ Their seasonal shedding can be a challenge as they lose their coat twice a year.
How much does a white Shiba cost?
The price of a white Shiba Inu puppy can range from approximately $1,100 to $2,750, depending on where you purchase it, the type of breeder, and the demand. Some breeders may charge higher prices for puppies of superior lineage.
If you prefer adoption, adoption fees at an animal shelter or rescue center can be around $360 to $600. These fees typically cover veterinary care, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, microchipping, and tick and flea treatment.
Finding a well-raised white Shiba puppy in shelters or rescue centers may not be easy, but it can save you money compared to buying from a purebred breeder.
Initial expenses when bringing your Shiba puppy home average around $1,920 to $2,040 in US dollars. This one-time cost can be higher for first-time owners and includes veterinary expenses, vaccinations, supplies, spaying or neutering, training, grooming, and other necessary items.
The average monthly cost of caring for a Shiba puppy can range from $240 to $1,200 in US dollars, covering expenses such as food, medical care, grooming, training, and insurance.
Where to adopt or buy a puppy?
You have several options to adopt a white Shiba Inu puppy. Here are the three main sources where you can find a puppy:
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Professional breeders: Professional breeders have significant experience in dog breeding and are likely to provide health guarantees for their puppies. They also offer lifelong support and will take back the dog if you can no longer care for it.
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Accidental breeders: Accidental breeders are individuals who did not specifically plan to breed dogs for sale. Dogs mated accidentally, and these breeders try to find homes for the puppies at a reasonable price.
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Animal shelters or rescue centers: Animal shelters and rescue centers are an excellent option for adopting a well-raised puppy. You may be lucky and find a white Shiba Inu at a shelter near you.
The white coat color is rare among Shiba Inus in the United States due to the American Kennel Club (AKC) not recognizing this color. Therefore, you may have a harder time finding a white Inu in the United States compared to other coat colors.
Common Health Risks for White Shibas
Shibas, including white ones, can be prone to various health issues. Here are some of the health problems that a white Shiba may be susceptible to:
- Tail Droop / Spinning Tail: Some Shibas may develop a condition known as “tail droop,” where their tail may sag or “spin” downward.
- Chylothorax: This is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the chest cavity, which can lead to breathing difficulties.
- Glaucoma: Glaucoma is an eye condition that can result in increased intraocular pressure, potentially damaging the optic nerve and causing eye pain.
- Patellar Luxation: This is an orthopedic problem where the kneecap may dislocate from its normal position, causing lameness.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is an inherited eye disease that can lead to a progressive loss of vision.
- Hypothyroidism: Some Shibas may develop thyroid issues, which can affect their metabolism.
Not all Shibas will necessarily develop these health problems, but it’s crucial to monitor their health and regularly consult with a veterinarian for proper medical care and check-ups.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the white Shiba Inu is indeed a favored choice among many enthusiasts of this Japanese breed, despite the controversy surrounding its coat color according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). Its rarity makes it a unique specimen while possessing the qualities that make a dog a loyal companion.
Regarding the preference for coat color, it largely depends on the personal tastes of each individual. Some may be drawn to the distinctive charm of the white Shiba Inu, while others may prefer other coat colors. The choice of preferred coat is a matter of personal preference and should not affect the love and care given to one’s faithful canine companion, regardless of its color.
White Shiba Inu FAQ
Is white a rare color for Shibas?
A pristine white coat represents the ultimate rarity within the Shiba breed, a uniqueness that sets it apart. Among the uncommon colors, the black sesame coat also ranks as one of the most unusual in this breed’s palette.
How long does a Shiba Blanc last?
The average lifespan of Shiba Inus varies depending on their size. We know that white Shibas can range from small to large. Therefore, their average lifespan generally falls between 12 and 16 years, which is relatively similar to that of other breeds of comparable size.
Is the Shiba Inu Blanc affectionate?
Your dog’s personality will depend on its parents, but also on its upbringing. I’ve noticed with Aïko that he rarely comes to ask for cuddles… However, he loves to play, and his affection also comes from snuggling on the couch or at the foot of the bed. Shibas are truly adorable and beautiful to look at, despite their often strong-willed characters, you won’t get bored.
Is the Shiba Blanc a protective dog?
The White Shiba can be protective of its family and territory, but it is not as aggressive as some other guard dog breeds. Its independent and reserved nature influences its protective behavior, making it more inclined to bark to alert of intruders rather than attack. Early socialization and proper training are essential to ensure its balance and sociability.
Does he get along with cats?
LOF Shibas tend to have a hunting instinct, which can pose challenges in cohabiting with cats. However, early socialization and proper training can help foster a harmonious coexistence. It is essential to closely monitor their interactions and create a safe environment for both animals. For example: Each one has its room to have a safe area where the other will not go.
Above all, do not use an electric collar on your Shiba to make it get along with cats, as it could damage your relationship with them and their trust.