Shiba Inu Dog Price in India: Everything You Need To Know

Are you looking for a furry friend to keep you company? Then, why not consider buying a Shiba Inu? These adorable dogs often referred to as little lions, are known for being friendly and good with children. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for busy families.

The most popular dog in Japan, the Shiba Inu, is a trendy companion in India because of its small stature, teddy bear appearance, and feisty personality.

However, before purchasing a Shiba Inu, one must be aware of the responsibilities of owning one. To guide you through that, we’ve made this comprehensive guide for you to make an informed decision.

So, let’s get started!

Are Shiba Inu and Akita Inu Same?

No, Shiba Inus and Akitas are two different types of Japanese dogs. Shiba Inus are small, energetic dogs with long tails, while Akitas are larger, more muscular dogs with shorter tails. Other distinguishing features between the two breeds include their coats – Shibas typically have a double-coated coat, while Akitas have a thick woolly coat. Shibas are also known for their sharp intelligence and quick reflexes; Akitas are considered solid and loyal family dogs.

How Much Does the Shiba Inu Cost in India?

The average price for a Shiba Inu puppy in India ranges from INR 55,000-85,000. There are a few things that can affect the price of a Shiba Inu puppy that you will come to know in the coming sections of this article. 

Factors that influence the Buying Price of a Shiba Inu in India

Shiba Inu Age: Buying A “Puppy” vs. An “Old Dog”

Puppies are more expensive than adult dogs due to their high demand. People want to buy puppies because they believe they will be cute and cuddly and grow into lovable pets.

Puppies because they require more care and attention. They need to be fed regularly and get plenty of exercises. They also need to be trained and socialized from an early age. This can be costly and time-consuming for pet owners. In addition, puppies are more likely to get sick or injured than adult dogs, which can lead to expensive vet bills.

On the other hand, adult dogs are typically already housebroken and know how to behave around people and other animals. They may still require basic training because they might come with bad habits you want to eliminate, but it’s usually much less intensive than with puppies. 

Adopting a Shiba Inu vs. Buying

When you adopt a dog, the shelter or rescue organization typically covers many of the costs of initial care, such as spaying or neutering, deworming, and vaccinating. In addition, adoption fees are usually much lower than the cost of buying a dog from a breeder or pet store. 

One of the downsides that may occur during the adoption process will be the unavailability of the Shiba Inu dogs most of the time due to their rarity in India.

Many dogs adopted from shelters or rescues may have been neglected or abused in the past. This can make them fearful of people and other dogs. Being patient and taking things slow when introducing your new dog to your home and other pets is essential. With time and patience, most dogs will come to trust and love their new family.

Breeder Factor

A breeder plays an essential role in producing a well-developed and healthy puppy. However, due to the popularity of owning a pet growing in India, you may come across many breeders that operate illegally.

Breeds like Shiba Inu are prone to diseases such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. So, it becomes essential to buy puppies only from a reputable source.

To help you out, we’ve mentioned some places below where you can get your new furry companion.

Puppy Mills

(Avoid at all cost)

Many people looking for a new dog may not be aware of the existence of puppy mills and the horrors that occur in these mass breeding facilities. Puppy mills are large-scale commercial dog breeding operations where the mother dogs are kept in tiny, filthy cages and bred repeatedly until they can no longer produce puppies. The puppies are then sold to pet stores or directly to consumers before they are even fully weaned from their mothers.

The conditions at puppy mills are deplorable, and the animals living there suffer from many health problems due to being bred indiscriminately. Many puppy mill dogs have genetic disorders, developmental issues, and chronic infections. They also tend to be skittish and fearful because they have never received any kind of socialization or human interaction.

Puppy mill owners will set the price of puppies low to make them very appealing to buyers. So, it is advisable not to fall into their trap and buy your furry friends from trusted sources.

Pet Shops

Many people head to their local pet shop when finding a new furry friend. After all, where else can you find a variety of puppies to choose from? Unfortunately, puppy mills are often the leading supplier of puppies to pet shops. 

But, there are good pet shops too. The best way to find a good store is through word of mouth. Ask your friends and family where they got their dog and what kind of experience they had at the store.

If you can’t find a good referral, do some online research. Look for stores that have positive reviews from customers. You can also ask your local vet as they’re related to this field, and they may possess some good information about it.

Buying a Shiba Inu from Middleman or Brokers

Brokers can help you find the right dog for your family and home. They know breeds and temperaments and can help you find a responsible breeder or rescue organization. They can also assist with transportation and paperwork.

Brokers usually have access to breeders and rescues all over the country, so they can help you find a dog that is the right fit for your personality and lifestyle. A broker typically charges a 10-20% commission fee. However, many brokers operate their business illegally. So, before consulting a broker, you should always research their background.

Buying a Shiba Inu from Reputable breeders

Reputable breeders test their dogs for genetic disorders and breed only healthy dogs. In addition, they will provide you with documentation on the dog’s health history and any genetic testing that has been done.

They also socialize their puppies, so they are well-adjusted dogs. Reputable breeders will screen potential buyers and only sell puppies to people they feel will be good owners.

It’s important to note that buying from a reputable breeder is usually more expensive than buying from a pet store or shelter. But, in the long term, it’s beneficial as you’re getting a dog that is raised in a healthy environment.

Questions to ask from a Breeder

When looking for a reputable breeder, always ask questions. This will help you find the perfect dog for your family.

Some essential questions to ask include:

• How long have they been breeding dogs?
• What genetic disorders are common in the breed?
• How often do they have litters?
• What happens to the puppies if they don’t get sold?
• Can I meet the puppy’s parents?
• Can I see the place where you raise your puppies?
• What breeds do you specialize in?
• Are your dogs bred for temperament as well as appearance?
• Do you health test your breeding dogs for genetic disorders? 
• Are your puppies raised in your home or in a kennel setting? 
• How much socialization do they get before they are sold? 
• What kind of guarantee do you offer on your puppies?
• Are you affiliated or have licenses from any local or national governing body?
• What are your puppy return policies? 

Gender

There is an ongoing debate about the alleged connection between gender and the monetary value of a dog. However, Shiba Inu males tend to be larger than their Female counterparts, and people are more sought-after to buy them. This is why they’re costlier than their female Shiba Inu.

But that doesn’t make female Shiba Inu less desirable. On the contrary, due to their gentle disposition, female Shiba Inu can be a better option if you have kids at home.

Size

Generally speaking, people mostly go after larger dogs, which is one of the reasons dogs larger in size are costlier than those in small.

A fully grown male Shiba Inu is between 14.5 and 16.5 tall. The female may be slightly smaller at 13.5 -15.5. The favored weight of a male Shiba Inu would usually be around 10-11 KG, whereas the female Shiba Inu should be about 7-8 KG.

Mixed Breed or Purebred

Purebred dogs have been bred for specific characteristics and traits, often resulting in superior health, appearance, and temperament. This also means that they will have fewer genetic defects.

On the other hand, mixed breeds result from two different breeds of dogs mating. This means their genetic makeup is more varied and may have different characteristics than their parents. Unfortunately, this also makes them prone to many genetic defects.

This is why you may find a purebred being sold at a higher price than a mixed-breed dog.

Bloodline

Dogs with famous bloodlines often sell for a higher price because they are believed to be healthier and have better temperaments. In addition, it is also thought that they will have a better life expectancy.

The Shiba Inu is acknowledged as Japan’s oldest and possibly smallest domestic breed. They were bred as hunting dogs, and the ancestors of the Shiba Inu were the survivors of the World War era. This means Shiba Inu has a good bloodline, which gives us a reason behind its increased price.

Coat Colours and Markings

These lovely puppies come in many different colors, including red (most common), cream (rarest), black, and tan, as well as unique sesame coloring (rare). They all have some markings which are emblematic of the breed.

The rare colors may cost you more as they’re challenging to find. However, despite being the most irregular, cream color is not bred by reputable breeders due to its less desirability. Hence, you can get them at a lower price.

Location

The expense of a dog is higher in densely populated places, such as big cities, since the demand is more significant. Consequently, the population in cities is more, which means there are more potential buyers than in rural regions. This has the effect of encouraging dog breeders to charge higher prices for them.

Also, if you buy a dog from a faraway place, it may turn out to be more expensive than buying it from a nearby breeder. This is because additional expenses such as shipping and travel can play a significant role in increasing the price of the dog.

Certificates

Many people may not realize this, but when you purchase a dog certified through the Kennel Club of India (KCI) or any other local governing body, you are paying for more than just the dog itself.

You are paying for the assurance that the dog has been bred and raised according to specific rigorous standards. These standards cover everything from how the puppy is raised and socialized to how its health and genetic background are screened. 

Yearly Keeping or Maintenance Cost of Owning a Shiba Inu

A dog is a lifetime commitment. However, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring you can provide your new furry friend with everything they need.

From food and vet bills to grooming and training, here’s what you can expect to spend on your Shiba Inu each year.

Dog Food Factor

Shiba Inu are very active dogs whose nutritional needs exceed the needs of the average Spaniel. Their speedy metabolism enables them to digest food quickly.

Ensure that growing Shiba Inu food is made with at least twenty-two percent protein. Perhaps the first word listed on the package should be protein. It should also contain at least 5% fat and 5-8% carbs.

Home Food vs. Purchased Food

When it comes to homemade food, you know exactly what ingredients are going into your dog’s food. This can be beneficial if your dog has allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.

However, preparing homemade dog food can be time-consuming and may not provide all the nutrients your dog needs. If you’re just starting, it is recommended that you first consult your vet before you head out to serve your dog’s home-cooked meals.

On the other hand, purchasing food is typically more convenient than homemade food. It is also usually formulated to provide all the nutrients your dog needs. However, it is essential to read the labels carefully to ensure you get a high-quality product. Some commercial foods contain fillers and preservatives that can harm your dogs in the long run.

Depending on the brand, you can expect expenses to run around INR 6,500 to 9,500 monthly. To make it more economical, you can serve your dog mixtures of homemade and commercial foods. This way, you can potentially bring your meal expense to about INR 4,000-6,000

Portion Size and Frequency

Shiba Inu’s food portion and frequency depend on many factors, including the type of food, your dog’s activity level, and age. Puppies, for example, need to eat more frequently than adult dogs because they’re growing and developing. Look at the table below for a basic idea of what your dog meal schedule should look like.

Vet Factor

Routine checkups and vaccinations are essential for keeping your dog healthy. Your vet will check their weight, eyesight, heart, and lungs and give them a general health check. It’s necessary to catch any potential problems early to treat them quickly and efficiently.

It is recommended to visit the vet at regular intervals until your puppy turns six months old. You can lower that number to once in three or four weeks once your dog starts to grow old. To have a brief idea about various health-related factors, look at the below sections.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are essential for protecting your dog from potentially deadly diseases. Most puppies will need vaccinations starting at around 6-8 weeks old, with booster shots every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. After that, most dogs will need an annual booster shot to keep them up-to-date.

Look at the chart below for a clear idea about your dog’s vaccination schedule.

Puppy Age	Core Vaccines	Price
6 Weeks	DP Vaccine: it aids in protection against canine distemper and Parvovirus infection. Rabies Vaccine: Protects against rabies infection that can even spread in humans. Generally, you can get this done for free in government hospitals. A booster shot is given in 21 days after the first shot	INR 750-1500
8 Weeks	At this stage, a group of vaccines will be given. They may be known as 5-in-1 or 7-in-1, or 9-in-1 with a booster at 21 days. These vaccines protect your dog from life-threatening illnesses like Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Distemper, and Leptospira.	INR 1000-2000
Annual	DHPP booster vaccines should be given every year to give your dogs continued protection.	INR 750-2500

Neutering or Spaying Surgery Cost

Spaying and neutering is the common term for surgically removing a dog’s reproductive organs. This operation eliminates the animal’s ability to reproduce and reduces many hormonal behaviors associated with heat cycles, such as urinating in the house to mark territory or howling incessantly.

Spaying and neutering dogs have been proven to have many health benefits. For example, on average, neutered and spayed dogs live one and a half years longer than non-neutered and spayed dogs. They are also less likely to develop certain cancers and other diseases. 

You can expect the expenses of these surgeries to go around INR 4,000-12,000.

Deworming Cost

Dogs can get worms from various sources, including contaminated food or water, contact with infected soil, or even from another dog. Worms can cause serious health problems in dogs, including weight loss, diarrhea, and vomiting. In some cases, worms can even be fatal.

Usually, dogs are dewormed according to their age. For example, a young puppy might need to be dewormed once a month until they’re six months old. An adult dog may be required to get dewormed 3 or 4 times a year.

Deworming can be done with medication, which can be in the form of tablets or syrups. These will usually cost you around INR 100-200. It is recommended to consult your vet before putting your dogs on any medications.

Preventive Medications Cost

Antiseptic Spray, Cotton, and Bandages: These are the primary first aid kid that will help treat minor injuries. It can cost you around INR 300-500, depending on how often you buy them.

Ticks and Flea Powder: Ticks and Flea are vectors of diseases and can transmit serious diseases to dogs. This powder contains ingredients to kill or repel fleas and ticks. It can cost you around INR 200-500.

Ear Drops: To help fight your dog with ear infections, ear drops play an essential role. You can expect it to cost around INR 150-250.

Housing and Confinement Cost

Dogs are naturally curious creatures and can get into mischief if they’re not adequately confined. That’s why housing and confinement are necessary to keep them well-behaved.

Housing provides a safe, secure place for your dog to stay when you’re away from home or when bad weather strikes. It also gives your dog a place to call his own where he can feel comfortable and safe.

Many different housing and confinement options are available for dogs, ranging from simple crates or kennels to more elaborate dog houses.

We recommend buying a crate for puppies as it is often easy to carry and provides enough space for them to relax. It can cost around INR 1,000-1,500 for a good quality crate. As your dog grows old, you can buy a dog bed that usually costs around INR 1,500-2,500.

Accessories Cost

Training Harness

A training harness is a tool that helps owners get their dogs under control while walking or running. It gives the owner more leverage over the dog and prevents it from pulling on the leash. In addition, it can help redirect a dog’s attention back to the owner if they get distracted while on a walk.

Harnesses distribute the pressure of the dog’s pulling evenly around their body which gives owners more control and makes it harder for dogs to pull away.

They do not pressure the neck or throat area as collars can. This is especially important for small or short-nosed breeds as they are more prone to tracheal collapse. A good quality harness would generally cost between INR 1,000-2,000.

Cost of Toys

Dogs need toys to help them stay mentally and physically stimulated. Toys also provide an outlet for a dog’s natural chewing instincts. And playing with toys can help build the bond between a dog and its owner.

Toys that require a dog to use problem-solving skills are especially beneficial. For example, food-dispensing toys such as Kongs can keep a dog’s brain challenged and active. Mentally and physically active at the same time. You can expect it to cost around INR 500-1,200.

Grooming Cost

Shibas generally need little grooming, but their little double coats must be brushed every week to stop a build-up of hair from settling on different parts of the dog. In addition, due to their shedding during the spring and summer seasons, they need to be brushed multiple times daily. Frequent brushing helps clear the dog’s coat of dried dirt, mud, and other debris.

Because of their self-grooming and immaculate habits, a bath once every two or three months will be sufficient for Shiba Inu. If you have the skillset and time, you can easily save a lot grooming them at home. You can quickly get a good grooming kit between INR 2,000-3,000. This would include towels, nail clippers, shampoos, conditioners, and brushes.

If you don’t, you can opt for professional grooming. However, this would add the expense of about INR 500-2000.

Walker Cost

Walking is an essential part of a dog’s life, as it helps to keep them fit and healthy. But unfortunately, not all dog owners have the time to walk their dogs. This is where walkers come in!

Walkers provide an essential service by walking dogs when their owners are unavailable. This ensures that the dog gets the necessary exercise and prevents them from becoming bored or destructive. You can expect it to cost about INR 100-500 a session or INR 3,000-4,000 monthly.

Training and Socializing

Training your dog is essential for teaching them basic obedience commands and good manners. It also helps to build a bond between you and your dog. Socializing with your dog is just as important as it allows them to interact confidently and calmly with other dogs and people.

If you don’t have time to train or socialize with your dog, you can always hire a professional trainer to help. They would charge around INR 6,000-8,000 a month.

Treats Cost

Dogs love food, so when you give them a treat, you reward them for being good. This motivates them to continue behaving reasonably.

If you want your dog to sit, stay or come when called, you can use treats as a reward for when they obey your commands. However, a good quality treatment can cost anywhere between INR 200-300.

Insurance Cost

Many things can go wrong with your dog, from illnesses and accidents to injuries, surgeries, and third-party liabilities. This cost can quickly add to your vet bills making it very expensive.

With insurance, you can rest assured that your dog will be covered in an emergency. However, comparing different policies is essential as not all insurance are made the same. You can expect pet insurance to cost anywhere between INR 5000-15000.

Travel Cost

Check with your airline to see their policies regarding traveling with pets. For example, some airlines allow small dogs in the cabin, while others require that they travel in the cargo hold. Be sure to find out what the requirements are so that you can make the necessary arrangements.

Next, ensure you have all the required documentation for your dog. This includes a valid health certificate and proof of vaccination. You will also need to provide a kennel or carrier that meets the airline’s size requirements.

Be prepared to pay a fee for flying with your dog. Usually, if you’re traveling domestically, it can cost you around INR 20,000. In the case of international flights, it can reach up to INR 2-3 lakhs. If you want to save on these costs, you can give them to daycare facilities.

Daycare Cost

Daycare for dogs can provide your furry friend with socialization, exercise, food, and basic training. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that your dog is being well cared for while you are away. When choosing a daycare for your dog, visit the facility and meet the staff. You should also ask about their policies on vaccinations and behavior.

A good daycare service can cost INR 200-500 a session.

Registration Cost

India’s apex body for dog registration and regulation is The Kennel Club of India (KCI). The KCI charges a nominal fee for the registration of dogs to finance its operations and maintain the registry. Therefore, you can expect it to cost between INR 400-1000.

Miscellaneous

You might need to buy other things, such as a water dish, a poop bag, food and water bowls, food storage containers, and a pee cleaner, for raising your dog, which will cost approximately INR 2,500 to Rs 3,000.

Hidden and Related Costs of Shiba Inu Ownership

Just like other members of your household, your dog deserves your effort and time. Dogs require their owners for everything, including companionship, nourishment, and rest. So be sure to make them a priority.

Essential Things to Consider Before Buying Shiba Inu

Because male Shiba Inus are heavier than females, they are bigger and can be more expensive to feed. You must also brush them regularly to keep their coat healthy.

Shiba Inus’ average life expectancy is between 13 and 16 years. Annual costs and expenses for care include regular vet checkups and annual eye checkups, with these dogs especially susceptible to eye disease.

Shiba Inu are also prone to developing many allergies. So, be sure to consult your vet to combat this.

A Shiba will need a lot of mental balance to avoid boredom. They are prone to destructive behavior at home when they become frustrated and inactive.

Benefits of Bringing Shiba Inu to Your Home

• This breed can provide quite a bit of strength in its small size. That makes them ideal as guard dogs.
• They have a high emotional IQ.
• They hate to stay dirty; this can save your grooming cost.
• They produce less dander in comparison with other dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summing it Up!

In conclusion, if you are considering getting a Shiba Inu, research and be prepared to commit to training and care. They are lovely dogs that will bring years of joy, but they are not the right fit for everyone. If you are up for the challenge and have the time and patience to care for a Shiba Inu, go for it! You won’t regret it.