The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix, also known as the Shepherd Inu, is a unique breed that combines the traits of the Shiba Inu and the German Shepherd.
The result is a beautiful, intelligent dog that is a loyal, friendly, and incredibly active dog.
If you are thinking of adding a Shepherd Inu to your household, there are several important facts that you need to know.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
19-22 inches
Weight
40-60 lb
Lifespan
8-12 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
Intelligent, affectionate, loyal, playful, active, eager-to-please
Origin
The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix is not considered a purebred dog because it is a cross between two different breeds, the Shiba Inu and the German Shepherd.
The Shiba Inu is an ancient breed from Japan that is considered one of the oldest dog breeds in the world.
On the other hand, the German Shepherd is a much newer breed developed in Germany in the late 19th century to be a versatile working dog.
When these two breeds are crossbred, the resulting dog is a unique blend of traits from both breeds.
Although a relatively new hybrid, this breed’s popularity is growing rapidly.
Coat
The Shepherd Inu comes in different colors, including black, white, brown, and red.
Some dogs have a solid coat color, while others may have a combination of two or more colors.
As far as shedding goes, the Shepherd Inu is considered a moderate shedder, meaning they will shed some fur throughout the year.
Regular grooming is recommended to maintain their coat and prevent matting.
This breed is also considered a moderate-to-high shedder and requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Temperament/Behavior
The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix is a highly intelligent and active breed that loves to play and explore.
They are also known for being loyal and affectionate towards their owners.
However, this breed can be stubborn and independent-minded so training may require more patience and consistency than other breeds.
Additionally, the Shepherd Inu can be wary of strangers due to their protective nature, so early socialization is essential.
Exercise Requirements
The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix is a highly active breed requiring much exercise and playtime.
This breed is not recommended for apartment living because they need plenty of room to run and explore.
The recommended daily exercise for this breed is at least 60 minutes of brisk walking, running, or playing.
A lack of exercise can lead to behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, destructiveness, and excessive barking.
Food/Diet
The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix is an energetic breed that requires a balanced diet high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
This breed can be prone to obesity, so it is important to monitor their diet and exercise.
Generally, this breed’s recommended daily food intake is approximately 2-3 cups of high-quality dog food per day, divided into two or three meals.
Common Health Problems
The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health problems.
Some of the most common health problems that may affect this breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cataracts, allergies, and dental problems.
It is important to keep your Shepherd Inu up to date on their vaccinations and to schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian.
Conclusion
The Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix is a unique and exciting breed that combines the best traits of both the Shiba Inu and the German Shepherd.
These dogs are loyal, affectionate, and highly intelligent but require a lot of exercise and consistent training.
If you are looking for a new canine companion that is active, playful, and friendly, Shepherd Inu might be the right choice for you.
However, it is important to do your research and understand the unique traits and characteristics of this breed before making a decision.