Shiba Inus are internet superstars! They are so adorable that you would want to get one right after seeing their photos. But before looking for a breeder of this ancient spitz breed, you need to know how much a Shiba Inu costs.
In this article, you’ll learn about not only the initial cost of purchasing a Shiba puppy but also the subsequent expenses of looking after them. If this sounds interesting to you, keep on reading.
The Average Cost of a Shiba Inu Puppy
The Shiba Inu puppy price is around $1,400 to $3,500. However, expect to pay higher if the puppy is from a champion line. Generally, the factors that affect the price of a Shiba Inu puppy are its size, age, temperament, and bloodline.
Before they became internet stars, purebred Shiba Inus were not that expensive. They only used to be sold at $1,000 on average.
Eventually, they became one of the most expensive dog breeds because of their increasing popularity.
Nevertheless, the Shiba Inu price wouldn’t make you feel ripped off because of how lovable they are.
To convince you further into buying your first Shiba Inu, check out this video of Shiba Inu puppies looking more charming than ever as they grow into adulthood:
Shiba Inu from Puppy to Adult (8 weeks to 1 year)<a href="https://youtu.be/BwknA6aGqvs" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FBwknA6aGqvs%2F0.jpg" alt="Shiba Inu from Puppy to Adult (8 weeks to 1 year)" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
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Factors Affecting the Cost of a Shiba Inu Puppy
The price of a Shiba Inu varies from one puppy to another because of certain factors. Often, these involve kennel club registration, age, health checks, and more.
It is vital that you ask the breeder for their pricing breakdown so you know where your money goes and you won’t feel suddenly ripped off when you pay for a new puppy.
The following are some of the factors that affect the average cost of a Shiba Inu puppy:
Registration Papers: Registration papers from a Shiba Inu club serve as verification that a puppy is purebred and has undergone tests to discount any predisposed illnesses. A Shiba puppy with complete registration papers from kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club and the National Shiba Club of America could cost up to $3,500.
Bloodline: A lot of people are after purebred dogs of champion bloodlines that can compete in dog shows. These dogs possess impressive traits such as a muscular body, healthy coat, and high stamina. Litters from these champion Shibas are then sold at a much higher price.
Health Checks: It is only expected that Shiba Inus from reputable breeders cost more because they subject their dogs to health screenings to ensure that they got a healthy breed. A Shiba Inu tested for possible genetic diseases typically has a higher price tag.
Training and Socialization: Shibas that receive proper socialization and training at an early age are pegged at a higher price compared to others. Training fees aren’t cheap, and these are reflected in the final price of the new puppy.
Age: Shiba Inu puppies are at the prime of their health because of their young age. This is why many people want to get them instead of an already full-grown dog that has acquired a lot of health issues. Shiba Inu pricing also follows the same scheme — the younger the puppy, the more expensive it is.
Size: The Shiba Inu’s size and weight also directly affect its pricing. A pup that weighs and appears bigger for its age is priced higher than small dogs because they are said to be healthier and more robust.
Coat Color and Quality: A Shiba Inu with a red coat is quite rare, so it is natural for breeders to give this color a higher selling value. In connection, if you come across a breeder selling a black Shiba Inu at an unreasonable price, turn them down right away as that particular color doesn’t exist according to the breed standards.
Aside from the factors stated above, the breeder’s location also increases the price of a Shiba. This is primarily because of local demand and the additional shipping costs needed to get the dog right at your doorstep.
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shiba Inu From a Rescue?
Adopting a Shiba Inu from a rescue is way more practical than buying from a breeder. This would only cost you between $300 and $550.
However, the process of adopting a Shiba Inu can be just as arduous as adopting an actual child. You will be filling out forms left and right before your application is approved.
Most of all, you will undergo a tight screening process to see if you are a capable and responsible dog owner.
To give you a better chance of being chosen as an adoptee, check out our ultimate dog adoption guide.
Initial Cost of Shiba Inu Ownership
Buying a Shiba Inu puppy will not be the last time you’re going to spend quite a considerable sum.
There are initial expenses that you have to prepare for as you try to make your house into a comfortable and liveable home for your new Shiba Inu puppy.
Here is the complete list of the essential items that will satisfy your Shiba Inu’s needs, along with their corresponding price:
Food and Treats: Shiba Inus, both male and female, tend to become very active at times. A canine with high energy expenditure needs to be fed with only the best quality of food and treats. Dog food and treats recommended by veterinarians usually cost around $50 to $80.
Food and Water Bowls: Make sure that you buy ergonomic water and food bowls for your Shiba Inu. These items will keep your floors tidy and avoid the contamination of food and water. Medium pet bowls of good quality are priced between $10 and $25.
Bed: Shiba Inus may easily fall asleep after a long day of playing and running. This is why you should provide them with a dog bed to relax and sleep in. A medium-sized dog bed compatible with a Shiba Inu costs around $30 to $150.
Crate: Don’t forget to get your Shiba Inu a dog crate to provide them with a comfy personal space, especially when you travel a lot with them. A dog crate suitable for the size of a Shiba Inu costs around $30 to $200.
Leashes and Collars: Walking is a good exercise that you can provide Shiba Inu puppies. Of course, you will need to buy your pooch a leash and collar for your daily walks. Leashes and collars from local pet stores usually cost between $15 and $50, depending on the size and material.
Toys: Dogs chew on stuff to release pent-up energy. It is best to give them chew toys or other engaging and interactive toys so both their mind and body are stimulated. These may cost around $20 to $30.
Grooming Essentials: Shiba Inus have a lush double coat. You will need a dog shampoo and a high-quality slicker brush to clean and maintain their top hairs down to the undercoat. These items, along with other grooming essentials, can incur $30 to $150.
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications: The Shiba Inu has a thick double coat. This is why small parasitic critters such as ticks and fleas can easily hide and live in their undercoat. On the same note, they are also not immune from intestinal worms. Deworming and preventive medications for fleas and ticks will cost you around $50 to $200.
Initial Vet Visits: An initial vet consultation will keep any potential health issues in check, such as elbow and hip dysplasia, canine bloat, and eye deterioration. In total, vet bills will cost about $100 to $300.
Initial Vaccine Shots: It is essential to bring your Shiba Inu puppy to the vet to get basic vaccine shots for $75 to $200. These include vaccines for rabies, distemper, parvovirus (DHPP), heartworm, and flea prevention.
Neutering or Spaying: Some breeders will leave the decision to their buyer if they intend to breed their new Shiba Inu. If not, they can take the dog to the vet for spaying or neutering. The procedure costs between $50 and $500.
Dog License: Purchasing a dog license can help you find your Shiba in case it gets lost. Likewise, it can help identify them right away if they have bitten someone. Licensing often comes with tags, and generally, they cost $10 to $20.
Microchip: A microchip is a small electronic device that can be injected into your dog’s shoulder blades. The chip can be scanned by shelters, vets, and other animal-related facilities. This usually costs $40 to $60.
Miscellaneous supplies: Poop bags, poop scooper, potty pads, and some other items can prove to be useful while tending to a Shiba. Thus, you should create an allowance in your budget for these possible expenses. Preparing $15 to $30 would be enough.
The summary of the initial expenses for a Shiba Inu puppy is detailed in the table below:
Take note that some of the items listed above, such as leash and collar, dog crate, and dog bed, are one-time purchases only.
Although, that depends on your efforts to preserve these items so that your pet can still use them as they get older.
Annual Cost of Owning a Shiba Inu
Much like raising a human baby, expect to spend a few thousand dollars a year on your Shiba Inu. These recurring expenses often include the items mentioned in the initial costs and a lot more.
For a more detailed list of the annual expenses of a Shiba Inu, refer to the table below:
As you may have noticed, I added grooming fee, pet insurance, and routine veterinary care for the annual cost. These are some of the expenses that you shouldn’t go without since they are vital to your pet’s overall well-being.
Regular grooming helps you ensure that your dog is clean and free from fleas and ticks.
This may seem like a small thing but it can greatly prevent certain health issues from developing. Expect to pay $100 to $250 a year for essential grooming tools and supplies.
Of course, routine veterinary care and pet insurance should not be overlooked.
By having your dog checked by the vet from time to time, they get an early diagnosis for possible health issues. Their treatment will also become much cheaper because of insurance coverage.
Health checks and pet insurance cost $200 to $400 and $500 to $600 respectively.
Of course, there are ways to cut back on these expenses. These will be discussed later on in our money-saving tips section.
Other Potential Expenses
Throughout your Shiba Inu’s lifespan, there will be cases when you go beyond your budget to provide for your pet.
For instance, bringing your Shiba Inu puppy to a licensed veterinarian for an emergency procedure is quite essential. You don’t have to think twice about disbursing extra money for these additional costs.
Listed below are the services and situations in which you should expect additional spending for your Shiba Inu:
Pet Boarding Services: As a responsible pet owner, you must see to it that someone is taking good care of your dog while you are away. Business trips won’t allow you to bring a pet with you, so leaving your dog at a doggie daycare is the best option. Pet boarding services usually cost around $25 to $85.
Dog Walking Services: If your work demands more time at the office, you will have less time with your dog. For this reason, you should hire a dog walker, which costs around $15 to $25 for a 30-minute walking session.
Grooming Services: Your busy schedule can sometimes take away the time to groom your pet. What you can do is bring your dog to a pet grooming salon. A high-quality grooming service will cost around $60 to $85 per session.
Emergency Procedure: Dogs can suffer from illnesses or injuries when you least expect it. For example, hip dysplasia and patellar luxation may suddenly affect an adult Shiba Inu which requires immediate medical attention. Thus, you should be ready for the costs of consultation and treatment, which can range from $100 to $10,000.
It is still at your discretion as a pet owner to spend on every service mentioned above. If you believe that it is in your Shiba Inu’s best interest, go ahead and make the necessary expenditure.
Places to Find Shiba Inu Puppies for Sale and Adoption
At this point, you might have already figured out if you are in a good position financially to own a Shiba Inu puppy.
But before heading to a source who breeds Shiba Inus, check out our ultimate puppy buying guide so you can steer away from scammers and puppy mills. It will also help you pick a responsible and ethical breeder.
Nevertheless, here are some of the reputable Shiba Inu breeders across the country:
MARMA Farms – This reputable breeder based in Alabama has been focused on breeding and showing Shiba Inu dogs following the breed standards since 2003. All Shiba Inu puppies from this farm are screened for any hereditary diseases, and they come with complete AKC registration.
Kawako Shibas – If you live near Seattle, Washington, you may want to contact Kawako Shibas. They take pride in their meticulous breeding program focused on their Shiba Inu puppies’ health, beauty, trainability, and temperament. That being said, expect that their Shiba Inu puppies cost a little higher.
Bali Hai Shibas – This breeder based in Long Island, New York, has produced Shiba Inus with the best dog quality since 1999. If you intend to raise your Shiba Inu as a show dog, Bali Hai Shibas can give more training to your chosen pooch before it gets rehomed.
You can also check online if someone in your neighborhood breeds Shiba Inu dogs. Be careful, though, as not every Shiba Inu breeder practices ethical breeding. Avoid puppy mills, backyard breeders, and puppy stores at all costs.
Besides buying from reputable breeders, you can try adopting from rescues. This is especially recommended for those with an “adopt, don’t shop” mindset and for those who can afford the steep Shiba Inu price.
Here is a list of reliable Shiba Inu rescues you can reach out to:
Midwest Shiba Inu Rescue (MSIR) – Midwest Shiba Inu Rescue operates in different states to help abandoned Shiba Inu dogs find their new family. Since its founding in 2002, this non-profit organization has taken Shiba Inus of all shapes and sizes. They even take in adult dogs who are already past their puppy cuteness.
NYC Shiba Inu Rescue, Inc. (NYCSR) – NYC Shiba Inu Rescue is another non-profit corporation on a mission to find forever homes for abandoned Shiba Inus since 2007. All surrendered Shiba Inus to NYCSR are subjected to health screenings.
Colorado Shiba Inu Rescue – Colorado Shiba Inu Rescue is a non-profit organization that rescues Shibas despite lacking an actual shelter. Aside from purebred Shibas, they also have Shiba Inu mixed dogs under their care. Their dogs have full AKC registration, and they are cleared of health issues such as patellar luxation.
If the rescues above are far from your location, make sure to check our top picks for the best Shiba Inu rescues in the United States. You’re sure to find a Shiba breeder near you in that comprehensive list.
Money-Saving Tips for Shiba Inu Owners
The Shiba Inu is quite a special breed, so it is fitting to provide it with the highest quality of care possible. However, you don’t have to spend too much to maintain their well-being.
Here are some practical money-saving tips to reduce your expenses while still keeping your pet well-managed:
Adopt a rescue Shiba Inu. Many dogs out there are just waiting to be adopted in shelters. It will save you more money if you choose to adopt a rescue Shiba Inu puppy instead of buying one from a breeder. You might be lucky to find shelters or individuals who will let you adopt a rescued Shiba Inu for free.
Prepare homemade treats for your dog. You are free to prepare homemade meals and treats for your Shiba Inu instead of getting them store-bought or ready-made food. This way, you can have the option to pick healthy ingredients at a lower price.
Make sure that your dog is always safe. Your dog’s total well-being largely depends on you as a fur parent. It is your responsibility to watch over your pet in its daily activities. Keeping your pooch away from accident-prone areas will save you from a $100 trip to the clinic.
Groom your dog by yourself. While professional pet groomers are trained to provide high-quality service, you can always try to learn everything they know about grooming. You can save up when you have mastered properly grooming your Shiba by yourself. Begin by watching YouTube videos or asking for tips from fellow dog owners.
Shiba Inus are not high-maintenance dogs, so you don’t have to be a big-time spender to keep one alive and healthy. You can always choose a more affordable but viable alternative.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that you need a hefty amount of money reserved to buy a Shiba Inu puppy. But there are other affordable ways to obtain a Shiba Inu puppy, particularly adoption.
Despite how expensive Shiba Inu puppies cost, taking home one to become a part of your family is a very gratifying experience.
Also, Shiba Inus are capable of giving back tenfold the love and attention you give them, so it’s definitely worth it!
If you have the financial capacity to raise one, you shouldn’t hold back. Are you getting a Shiba Inu soon? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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