Shiba Inu Health & Veterinary Care
Evidence-based guide to keeping your Shiba Inu healthy at every life stage. From puppy vaccinations to senior care, genetic testing to emergency preparedness.
Trusted by Shiba Inu owners across Australia • Updated February 2026
1. Preventive Care & Vaccinations
The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) recommends a structured approach to preventive healthcare. Regular checkups and timely vaccinations are the foundation of a long, healthy life.
Shiba Inu Vaccination Schedule Australia
Complete C3/C5 vaccination schedule, puppy shot timing, adult boosters, and state-specific requirements.
Shiba Inu Insurance Australia Guide
Compare policies, breed-specific considerations, and cost-benefit analysis for Shiba Inus.
Puppy Schedule
- 6-8 weeksC3
- 12-14 weeksC3 booster
- 16-20 weeksC5
- 12-16 monthsAdult booster
Adult Schedule
- Core vaccinesEvery 3 years
- Kennel cough (C5)Annual
- HeartwormMonthly
- Dental checkAnnual
Estimated Costs
- Puppy course$180-250
- Annual booster$70-100
- Wellness exam$60-90
- Dental cleaning$300-600
2. Genetic Testing & Health Screening
Ethical Shiba Inu breeders in Australia perform comprehensive health testing on all breeding stock. The Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC) recommends these minimum tests.
Shiba Inu Health Testing Australia
Complete guide to hip scoring, eye certification, patella evaluation, and DNA testing for breed-specific conditions.
The NIPPO Standard
Understanding authentic Japanese Shiba Inu conformation and its relationship to health and longevity.
GM2 Gangliosidosis
DNA test required
Progressive neurological disorder. Autosomal recessive - both parents must be carriers to produce affected puppies.
Primary Glaucoma
Annual ACES certification
Painful condition leading to blindness. DNA test available; affected dogs should not be bred.
Hip Dysplasia
AVA/AWV Hip Scoring
Radiographic evaluation after 12 months. Score 0-106 (lower is better). Breed average: 10-15.
Patellar Luxation
Orthopaedic examination
Kneecap dislocation. Grade 0-4 (0 is normal). Common in small breeds; breeding not recommended for Grade 2+.
- Hip scores from AVA/AWV accredited veterinarian
- Current ACES eye certification (within 12 months)
- DNA test results (Clear/Carrier/Affected status)
- Patella evaluation from veterinary orthopaedic exam
3. Common Health Conditions in Shiba Inus
While Shiba Inus are generally a healthy breed, they are predisposed to certain conditions. Awareness and early intervention are key.
Shiba Inu Health Problems & Prevention
Comprehensive guide to hereditary conditions, early warning signs, and preventive care strategies.
Keeping Your Shiba Inu Cool in Australian Summer
Heatstroke prevention, cooling strategies, and Australian-specific summer care.
Allergies & Skin Conditions
Atopic dermatitis, food allergies, and contact allergies are common in Shiba Inus.
- Symptoms: Itching, recurrent ear infections, hot spots
- Management: Novel protein diets, omega-3 supplements
- Veterinary treatment: Antihistamines, immunotherapy
Luxating Patella
Kneecap dislocation, ranging from mild (grade 1) to severe (grade 4).
- Symptoms: Skipping gait, sudden lameness, kicking out leg
- Grades 1-2: Often managed with joint supplements
- Grades 3-4: Surgical correction recommended
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Degenerative eye disease leading to blindness. DNA test available.
- Night blindness first symptom
- No cure, but dogs adapt remarkably well
- Breeding only from DNA-cleared dogs
Heatstroke
Double-coated Shiba Inus are vulnerable in Australian summers.
- NEVER shave your Shiba's coat (insulation + UV protection)
- Walk before 8am or after 7pm in summer
- Signs: Excessive panting, drooling, collapse
4. Senior Shiba Inu Care (10+ Years)
With proper care, Shiba Inus often live 12-15 years. Senior dogs need adjusted nutrition, monitoring, and veterinary care.
Spay, Neuter, or Wait?
Timing desexing for optimal long-term health outcomes based on current veterinary research.
Shiba Inu Exercise & Enrichment
Age-appropriate activities and mental stimulation for senior dogs.
Bi-Annual Wellness
Senior dogs should see the vet every 6 months, not annually. Blood work, urinalysis, and dental checks catch issues early.
Joint Support
Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s, and CBD (under veterinary guidance) can improve mobility and quality of life.
Quality of Life
Monitor pain, mobility, appetite, and engagement. Discuss end-of-life care and palliative options with your vet.
5. Emergency Preparedness
Every Shiba Inu owner should know the signs of emergencies and have a plan. Australian conditions present unique risks.
Shiba Inu Insurance Australia Guide
Emergency coverage, claim processes, and breed-specific policy considerations.
Keeping Your Shiba Inu Cool
Heatstroke prevention and emergency cooling protocols.
Emergency Contacts
- Your regular vetSave in phone
- 24hr emergency hospitalLocate now
- Animal Poisons Helpline1300 869 738
First Aid Kit Essentials
- • Sterile gauze and non-stick bandages
- • Betadine solution
- • Tweezers (for grass seeds/ticks)
- • Muzzle (even friendly dogs bite when in pain)
- • Portable water bowl
Australian Emergency Scenarios
Snake Bite
Sudden collapse, vomiting, tremors. Keep dog calm, carry to vet. Do not apply tourniquet.
Grass Seeds
Sneezing, paw licking, head shaking. Check between toes, ears, nostrils after every walk.
Heatstroke
Excessive panting, drooling, collapse. Cool with room temperature water (not ice), vet immediately.
Paralysis Ticks
Wobbly gait, voice change, vomiting. Remove tick, seek vet care. Eastern Australia risk.
Considering Adoption?
The RSPCA and other reputable animal welfare organisations across Australia have dogs and puppies of all breeds, including occasionally Shiba Inus and Shiba Inu crosses, waiting for homes.
Your Shiba Inu's Health Partner
At Yokiko Shiba Inu, we prioritize health testing and transparency. Every breeding dog undergoes comprehensive genetic screening and annual veterinary examinations. We're here to support your Shiba's health journey.