Choosing a Shiba Inu

Choosing a Shiba Inu

By: Dr. Dawn Ruben

Common Diseases and Disorders

In general, the shiba inu is a healthy dog with few medical concerns. However, the following diseases or disorders have been reported:

  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a disease that causes nerve cells at the back of the eye to degenerate, leading to blindness.

  • Entropion is a problem with the eyelid that causes inward rolling. Lashes on the edge of the eyelid irritate the surface of the eyeball and may lead to more serious problems.

  • Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid gland does not function producing inadequate amounts of thyroid hormone.

  • Cataracts cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. You may see a cloudy, white color in the pupil, which is normally black. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.


  • Patellar luxation is a disorder affecting the dislocation of the kneecap.

  • Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint leading the pain and lameness.

  • Von Willebrand's disease is a disorder that results in the inability to clot blood. Affected animals will bleed extensively following trauma or surgery.


    Life Span

    The average life span of the shiba inu is approximately 12 to 14 years.


    We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.

     
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