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The Shiba Inu is the national dog - and treasure - of Japan.
Once facing extinction, the Shiba Inu has made a steady comeback and is quickly gaining legions of fans across the globe.
What makes a Shiba a Shiba is their one-of-a-kind personality and gorgeous looks.
Now this personality is not for everyone.
Shibas can be notoriously stubborn, aloof, and fiercely independent. Thus this level of rebelliousness usually requires an experienced dog owner familiar with the quirks of the Shiba Inu breed.
A Shiba Inu mixed breed however will likely be less stubborn and better suited for the majority of those interested in Shiba Inus but not quite ready for the "full experience”, nor the price. (properly bred purebred Shiba Inus are expensive and have long waiting lists).
Additionally, there are much more mixed breed dogs that need to find loving homes - versus their purebred counterparts.
Plus finding a properly and ethically bred Shiba Inu is difficult, time-consuming, and expensive. There's simply not enough reputable Shiba Inu breeders to fill the demand.
For the overwhelming majority of dog owners, adopting / rescuing a dog in need is the better choice over purchasing a puppy from an unscrupulous source.
Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix courtesy of G. Van Gilder
Understanding Shiba Inu Mixes
A Shiba Inu mix, or cross is typically a 50% cross of a Shiba Inu and another purebred dog. In this case, the Shiba Inu mix will inherit features and traits from both parents.
Oftentimes, these types of breeding's between two purebred dogs is done on purpose to create so-called “designer dogs”.
Think “Puggle”, “Cock-a-Poo”.
And other times, the breeding was simply an “oopsie accident”.
When the breed of both parents of the Shiba Inu mix is known, it’s much easier to predict how the Shiba Inu mix will look like and behave.
However if a Shiba Inu is mixed with a breed that is now known, predicting behavior and looks becomes a guessing game.
New technologies such as dog D.N.A. tests can be helpful in understanding your Shiba mixes lineage.
Shiba Inu German Shepherd mix courtesy of K. Bulygo
How Much Do Shiba Inu Mixes Cost?
Shiba Inu Husky mix courtesy of D. Hernandez
Oftentimes, Shiba Inu mixes are available for adoption with low or zero adoption fees.
And adopting any dog in need is such a wonderful thing.
Additionally, mixed bred dogs are often healthier than their purebred counterparts due to their diverse genetics.
Shiba Inu mixes purposely bred to be “designer dogs” can often cost the same or more as purebred Shiba Inus.
This is mainly due to the popularity factor that certain designer dog mixes attract in the media.
Unfortunately, many designer dog breeders breed mainly for pure profit resulting in puppies with a high cost - and low health.
However the majority of designer dogs are more for novelty instead of true need.
Simply put, stay away from designer dog breeders and look into rescue instead.
Overpopulation, puppy mills, backyard breeders all contribute to unnecessary suffering for our most beloved companions.
Purebred Sesame Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu Mix Versus Purebred Shiba Inu
Purebred Shiba Inus are gorgeous dogs that have captured the attention of many in recent years.
However, because they are a primitive dog breed, they are not the dog for everyone.
They are only suitable for experienced owners who can handle their sometimes challenging behavior.
Shiba Inu mixes, depending on the mix, are likely to be easier to handle and a better fit for most families.
Plus, the majority of Shiba mixes are dogs that likely need loving homes at adoption and rescue centers around the country.
So you’ll be doing a whole world of good by rescuing a pup in need.
No reputable and ethical Shiba Inu breeder would ever purposely mix Shiba Inus with other dogs just for the novelty of it.
As a general rule, avoid paying for mixed breed dogs and rescue instead.
Shiba Inu Labrador Mix - Shibador
The Shiba Inu Lab mix or Shibador is a medium / large size active, sometimes goofy dog that possesses a friendly disposition making them great family dogs.
Shibadors would be great for active families that engage in various outdoor activities - especially those that involve water.
Most Shibadors will have an easy going temperament, though training and socialization should start as early as possible.
Some Shibadors may display stubbornness that can be addressed with consistent training and early socialization.
Shiba Inu lab mixes need lots of exercise, mental enrichment, and fun - especially if it pulls more on the Lab side.
Shiba dominated Shibadors will be a bit more laid back and content with just regular walks.
Shibadors are chow hounds who love food and should be monitored for weight gain.
Bloat is also a concern - especially if the Shibador is a fast eater. There’s a bunch of bowls that are meant to slow down fast and voracious chompers.
Shiba Inu Lab mixes weight around 45 pounds and have a medium length coat that is typically either tan / white, or black and tan in color.
Shiba Inu Poodle Mix - Poo Shi
A Shiba Inu Poodle mix or Poo-Shi / Shi-Poo is Shiba Inu mixed with either a standard, toy, or miniature Poodle.
The traits, personality, and size of a Poo-Shi will vary greatly depending on what type of Poodle the parent is.
Poo-Shis with standard poodle parents will be larger and have much higher prey drive compared to Poo-Shis from miniature and toy varieties.
In general, Poo-Shis are intelligent and loyal dogs with good personalities.
Some Poo-Shis exhibit “spicy” behavior and can be demanding when they want to be. But with a name like "Poo-Shi" - can we really blame them?
Poo-Shis bred from a standard poodle parent are roughly 30-40 pounds, while Poo-Shis bred from toy or miniature poodles weigh only 10 - 15 pounds.
While Shiba Inus are double coated, Poodles are single-coated, so Poo-Shi’s could inherit either type - though double-coated Poo Shis are more common.
Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix - Shepherd Inu
Shiba Inu German Shepherd Mix courtesy of L. Eulberg
A German Shepherd Shiba Inu mix, or Shepherd Inu is an impressive and formidable dog that needs an experienced and confident handler.
Shepherd Inus have high prey drives and can have issues with aggression - especially if not properly socialized during puppyhood.
With Shiba Inus being stubborn and German Shepherds being high energy - a Shepherd Inu can be difficult to handle and train.
They’ll need loads of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy.
However, with the right owners Shepherd Inus will make loyal and protective companions always ready for a new adventure or challenge.
They’d be great dogs for various canine challenges such as scent work, barn hunting, and fast cat.
Shepherd Inus weigh in at roughly 25-70 pounds and stand at about 23” in height.
They have various colored double coats that will blow (shed) twice a year.
Shiba Inu Border Collie Mix
The Shiba Inu Border Collie Mix is a lotta dog in one medium-sized package.
Just as with Shepherd Inus, Shiba Inu Border Collie mixes need owners that are capable of giving them loads of training, socialization, and activities.
A Shiba Inu Border Collie is a highly intelligent dog that possesses high prey drive and loads of energy to burn.
This type of dog would be best suited for owners who have active lifestyles and are able to provide their dog ample activities and challenges.
A famous Border Collie named Chaser who passed away in 2019 was so intelligent he's been known to have been the most intelligent dog in the entire world!
Shiba Inu Border Collie mixes weigh between 20 and 40 pounds and stand about 20” in height. They’ll have a double coat that will shed twice and year.
Most Shiba Inu Border Collie mixes have a fox-like look as well as a well-proportioned, athletic body.
Shiba Inu Corgi Mix - Corgi Inu / Shorgie
Shiba Inu Corgi mix - courtesy of @lifeofmoosemo
The Corgi Inu is the melding of two popular fox-like dog breeds with contrasting personalities.
While a Corgi (Pembroke / Welsh) are friendly and personable dogs - the Shiba Inu is more independent and aloof.
The mixing of these two breeds will usually produce a dog that is energetic, friendly, though a bit stubborn at times.
Since Shibas were originally bred to be small game hunters and Corgis were bred to be herding dogs - Corgi Inus will have moderate prey drive and should be properly trained not to run away.
Shiba Inu Corgi mix - courtesy of @lifeofmoosemo
Corgis are well known for their nipping tendencies so caution should be used when Corgi Inus are around younger children.
While Shiba Inus have well-proportioned bodies, Corgis have short, squat bodies with a long torso. Both are adored for their cute “booties”.
So basically, Corgi Inus are adorable cute and goofy fluff balls that'll adore their family members.
A Shiba Inu Corgi mix weighs approximately 19-25 pounds and are roughly 12” in height.
Shiba Corgi mix puppy - courtesy of @lifeofmoosemo
Shiba Inu Chihuahua Mix - Shiba-Chi
The Shiba-Chi, or Shiba Inu Chihuahua mix is a small dog with a sweet and spicy temperament.
Most Shiba-Chis are confident dogs that do best in one-dog families with no small due to its demanding nature and need for attention.
Shiba Inu Chihuahua mixes are best for experienced dog owners that can give them the right socialization and training from the start.
Without enough socialization, Shiba Chis can display aggression to other dogs or people they’re not familiar with.
Snapping and biting can be an issue so they shouldn’t be left unsupervised with small children.
They are easily excitable dogs and sensitive that will not tolerate too much noise or rough handling from toddlers.
A Shiba Chi stands about 10” tall and weighs roughly 12 pounds.
They typically have a short coat that ranges in color from solid tan to white, white / black, and pinto colorings.
Shiba Inu Husky Mix - Husky Inu / Shiberian
Shiba Inu Husky Mix courtesy of S. McKee
A Shiba Inu Husky mix, a.k.a. A Husky Inu / Shiberian is a whole lotta dog in one body - and definitely not a dog for everyone.
Both Shiba Inu and Huskies have personalities that would be challenging for an inexperienced dog owner.
They both have high prey drives and are at risk for being crafty escape artists.
Husky Inus will need lots of obedience training, socialization as well as exercise and mental stimulation.
Shiba Inu Husky Mix courtesy of J. Hunt
Without it, Husky Inus can be destructive if left with not much to do.
A typical Husky Inu with both parents being purebred will have the well-known “fox-like” appearance of a Shiba Inu due to its pointy, erect ears and sickle tail.
Husky Inus weigh between 20 - 45 pounds with an average height of 20”.
The coat color of Husky Inus can vary though one of the most common color combinations is black / white.
Shiba Inu Husky mix courtesy of D. Hernandez
Both Shiba Inus and Huskies are double-coated and therefore Husky Inus will shed quite a bit when coat blowing season comes around. (twice a year).
With the right family, Husky Inus are loyal and loving goofballs that'll light up any room that they're in.
Shiba Inu Chow Chow Mix - Chow Inu / Chowba
Both Shiba Inus and Chow Chows are known as “ancient breed” dogs that possess a lot of characteristics of their wolf ancestors.
This means mixing a Shiba Inu with a Chow Chow is likely to result in an independent, stubborn, and aloof dog, with a strong and sometimes dominating personality.
Chowbas or Chow Inus, as they’re cleverly named, are definitely not for dog owners unfamiliar with primitive dogs.
Primitive dog breeds require calm, confident owners that know how to handle a sturdy and strong dog with an ever stronger personality.
Without proper socialization, Chowbas can be aggressive dogs that should not be left with young children or other dogs unsupervised.
Chowbas don’t need as much activity as other Shiba mixes, but they do need enough exercise to stay physically and mentally fit.
Chowbas are sturdily built dogs that have a beautiful double coat that needs attention - especially when shedding.
Their lion-like face is stunning and impressive.
A typical Chowba weighs about 45 pounds and stands 16” tall.
While Chowbas are not for everyone, those that do understand the needs of this special breed combo will be rewarded with a loyal and dedicated family dog.
Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix
The Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd mix is an intelligent dog that can make a great family companion provided it receives enough physical and mental activity.
The intelligence and willingness of the Aussie is a nice counter to the stubborn disposition of Shibas Inus making this mix a bit easier to socialize and obedience train compared to a purebred Shiba.
Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd mixes can be sensitive to harsh training methods so patient, gentle training is required.
A Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd mix will need lots of activity - preferably a job / duty.
This means this mix won’t be the best choice for apartment dwellers.
A typical Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd mix stands 20” tall and weighs about 35 pounds.
With the right family, Shiba Inu Aussies will bring loads of energy and fun to daily life.
Shiba Inu Pomeranian Mix - Pom-Shi / Shi-Pom
Shiba Inu Pomeranian mix courtesy of R. Dewitt
A Pom Shi or Shi Pom is a Shiba Inu mixed with a Pomeranian.
The melding of these two contrasting breeds produces a fox-like, fluffy dog that is easy going and friendly - making them great family dogs.
Pom Shis are loyal dogs that like to always be near their family members. Most Pom Shis can tolerate other dogs as well as younger children if properly socialized at a young age.
Pom Shis reflect the adorableness of Poms and regality of Shibas all in one diminutive package!
Training Pom Shis shouldn’t be an issue, especially when using positive training methods and delicious rewards.
A Pomshi will typically weigh around 12 to 14 pounds and stands about 9 to 12” tall which is a great size for apartment living
Pom Shis are healthy dogs with an average life span of 15 years. A great plus is that they have relatively small risk for serious genetic disease compared to other dog breeds.
Shiba Inu Pomeranian mix courtesy of R. Dewitt
Due to it’s diminutive size, Pom Shis are often bred by breeders aiming to cash in on the “designer dog” craze so it’s important to be aware of this.
Many designer dog breeders are actually puppy mills so awareness and research is a must.
In most cases, mixed breed dogs should always be adopted and saved versus bought and sold.
Shiba Inu Golden Retriever Mix
A Shiba inu Golden Retriever mix or Golden Shiba is a medium-sized, athletic, and sweet dog that would love an active family - preferably with lots of access to the great outdoors.
Golden Shibas are pretty high-energy dogs that enjoy physical challenges - especially those that involve water, splashes, and retrieving!
They’ll do great as a family dog due to their mild personality provided they have enough physical and mental stimulation.
Since they have moderately high prey drive, Golden Shibas should be socialized to play nicely with other smaller animals in the family.
Golden Shibas do love their human family members - thanks to the fact that Golden Retrievers are sweet, friendly, and loving dogs.
Most Golden Shibas will have a medium-build and weigh around 45 pounds. Usually, they’ll have floppy ears, long tails, and a short / medium length coat that is either tan, tan / white, or red, red / white.
In terms of health, Golden Shibas have a higher chance to develop cancer than most other mixes due to the fact that cancer disproportionately affects purebred Golden Retrievers versus other dog breeds.
Shiba Inu American Eskimo Mix - Imo Inu / Shiba Mo
Shiba Inu American Eskimo mix courtesy of N. Campbell
The Shiba Inu American Eskimo Dog mix, or “Imo Inu” / “Shiba Mo” is a delightful foxy looking, fluffy dog with oodles of energy along with nice personality.
Imo Inu make great family dogs and can do well in both apartment and house settings.
Because American Eskimo dogs come in three sizes, the size of an Shiba Inu American Eskimo mix will depend on the American Eskimo parent.
So Imo Inus can weigh between 12 - 40 pounds.
Shiba Inu American Eskimo mix courtesy of N. Campbell
With perky ears and curly tails, Shiba Inu American Eskimo mixes are born from parents with similar physical traits resulting in a dog with well balanced features.
Coat colors of Shiba Inu American Eskimo mixes are typically white, though can also be tan, black, and tan, or sesame.
Shiba Inu American Eskimo mixes are intelligent (sometimes a bit too intelligent) and keen dogs that can be trained to perform advanced tricks readily.
However, basic obedience and socialization first is a must as these dogs can challenge authority when they think they can get away with it.
Shiba Inu American Eskimo mix courtesy of N. Campbell
They need ample exercise and activity to be happy and would excel in dog sports like barn hunting and agility.
A Imo Inu would be a perky dog that will always keep their family on their toes!
Shiba Inu Samoyed Mix
A Shiba Inu Samoyed mix is a cross between a Shiba Inu and a Samoyed dog.
Both Shiba Inus and Samoyed share fox-like physical characterics so a Shiba Inu Samoyed mix is an attractive fluffy and foxy looking dog with a sweet disposition.
Shiba Inu Samoyed mixes are active and high energy dogs with moderate prey drive. They’ll do good as a family dog as long as they have enough exercise and play time.
A Shiba Inu Samoyed mix can be stubborn at times, so early and consistent obedience training is required to ensure a well-adjusted adult.
They are intelligent dogs that do not like harsh reprimands so sensitivity is necessary during training and correcting.
Personality wise, Shiba Inu Samoyed mixes are loyal and loving dogs that enjoy constant interaction with their family members.
Some Shiba Inu Samoyed Mixes can have anxiety issues if left alone with nothing to occupy their minds with.
A typical Shiba Inu Samoyed weighs 35 pounds and stands about 18” in height. They have a lush beautiful double medium length double coat that requires grooming.
Most Shiba Inu Samoyed mixes are white, light tan in color - though various other variations are possibly depending on the Shiba Inu parent.
Although both dogs are considered “primitive breeds”, the Samoyed has a less diverse bloodline than Shiba Inus resulting in more issues with certain genetic diseases such as hereditary glomerulopathy.
Shiba Inu Cocker Spaniel Mix - Shocker
The Shiba Inu Cocker Spaniel mix, or Shocker is a sweet, loyal, family-friendly dog that will do well in a variety of living environments.
Shockers are intelligent and trainable dogs that need moderate physical and mental stimulation to be at their peak.
They have a good amount of energy and not overly energetic as some working dog Shiba mixes can be.
Shockers are perfect family dogs and they'll do well with other dogs and children if socialized early.
A typical Shocker will weight about 20 pounds and be about 16” tall. The coat of Shockers can vary from tan, brown, black, and white.
Their coat can be thick and plush meaning extra time will be needed for grooming.
Shockers enjoy relatively good health and have a lifespan of about 12 - 15 years.
Shiba Inu Akita Inu Mix - Shibakita
A Shiba Inu Akita Mix, referred to as Shibakitas are a mix between two ancient Japanese dog breeds - one of them on the smaller side (Shiba Inu), and the other being quite large (Akita Inu)
Because the Shiba Inu and Akita Inu have very similar personalities and traits, it’s quite easy to predict a Shibakita’s personality.
Shibakitas are independent, mostly aloof, and fiercely loyal dogs that need an experienced and confident handler.
Because of their primitive nature, Shibakitas need a lot of socialization training early on in life.
Otherwise, issues such as aggression and intolerance of handling could become a problem.
Shibakitas are gorgeous dogs with thick double coats that need extra grooming - especially during shedding which happens twice a year. The most common coat colors are red, black and tan, cream, and sesame.
Shibakitas basically look like oversized Shiba Inus or undersized Akitas depending on where they pull more from.
Most Shibakitas weight about 45 - 55 pounds and have a sturdily built, strong body with prick ears and a curly tail.
With the right family a Shibakita would be an excellent companion as well as guardian.
Shiba Inu Jack Russell Mix - Jack Inu
A Shiba Inu Jack Russell mix, or “Jack Inu” is cross between a purebred Shiba Inu and a purebred Jack Russell Terrier.
Jack Inus can be quite the handful due to their compulsive and stubborn natures.
A Jack Inu will need to receive a lot of mental and physical stimulation to be content. Otherwise they can be prone to suffer from anxiety and in turn become destructive.
Jack Inus are highly intelligent dogs that are moderately affectionate with their owners (when they want to be).
A Jack Inu will require an owner that can give them adequate attention as well as fulfill their needs for regular physical and mental stimulation as well as being able to tolerate their sometimes compulsive behaviors.
Most Jack Inus weigh about 15 pounds and stand at 13” in height.
Their coat is short to medium length and come in a wide variety of color combinations depending on their parents.
Jack Inus are compact and sleek dogs built for speed and agility - which of course makes them great candidates for dog agility and barn hunts.
Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix
Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix courtesy of M. Kaus
A Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix is a relatively uncommon Shiba Inu mix.
Because Pitbulls are one of the most misunderstood breeds in the world, they are automatically stigmatized as aggressive and dangerous dogs which is quite unfair.
Thus anything that is mixed with a Pitbull unfortunately also has that stigma hanging over their presence.
Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix courtesy of M. Kaus
In reality, Pitbulls were bred to be affectionate and sweet people dogs that were once even trusted as nannies for people’s children.
However bad owners with bad intentions (inhumane dog fighting) purposely bred Pitbulls to be dog aggressive resulting in Pitbulls that due to their sheer power and tenacity - can be dangerous to humans and other dogs.
Oftentimes, it’s almost impossible to know which Pitbulls have been bred to dog fight and which have not, making it unfair to the majority of well-adjusted Pitbulls.
This is why it’s so difficult to predict the temperament of a Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix.
If the Pitbull parent comes from a line that had no dog fighting ancestors, the resulting Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix will be a calm, loving, and loyal family dog that is great with kids but still iffy with other dogs.
Shiba Inu Pitbull Mix courtesy of M. Kaus
They'll be simply wonderful dogs to love.
On the other hand if the Shiba Pit Mix comes from a Pitbull parent with dog fighting genes in their genetics, the resulting Shiba Pit Mix can be unpredictable and not trustworthy around children and other dogs.
This is why it’s important to know both parents of the Shiba Inu Pitbull mix to know the resulting dog will be the right choice for you.
Additionally, most rescues screen their dogs and will have a good understanding of their general temperament and disposition.
Shiba Inu Basenji Mix
A Shiba Inu Basenji mix is a cross between two extremely foxy looking pups - the Shiba Inu and the Basenji.
This particular Shiba Inu mix is only suited to those that understand primitive dog breeds.
Both Shiba Inus and Basenjis are stubborn and headstrong dogs that do not give high priority to pleasing their owners. Mixing them together will produce a dog that can be difficult to train.
Shiba Inu Basenji mixes can produce interesting vocal capabilities due to the fact that Basenji’s yodel while Shibas sometimes “scream”.
This type of dog requires early socialization and training otherwise they can suffer from aggression and anxiety.
They do not learn from harsh training methods and will actually lose respect for owners that are too rough with them.
Shiba Inu Basenji mix is a sturdily built, compact and athletic dog with a high prey drive and lots of energy.
They’ll need lots of physical and mental activity to keep them content. Without it, they can become anxious and destructive.
A Shiba Inu Basenji mix is a fox-looking dog with pointy ears, almond eyes and a curled tail. They stand at 16” in height and weigh about 20 pounds
Shiba Inu Basenji mixes are very clean “cat-like” dogs that groom themselves regularly and don’t typically enjoy wet, muddy weather.
While this type of dog is definitely not for everyone, a Shiba Inu Basenji mix can be a perfect “Robin” to the right “Batman”.
Shiba Inu Klee Kai
The Shiba inu Klee Kai mix is cross between a Shiba Inu and a Klee Kai dog and an example of another very "foxy" combo.
A Shiba inu Klee Kai mix or Shiba Kai will retain the foxy look of both parents, sometimes taking on the appearance of a miniature Husky.
Shiba Kais are intelligent and perceptive dogs that are loyal and loving to their owners but can be wary of strangers and small children.
They make excellent one person dogs but can do well in a family setting if properly socialized at a young age.
Shiba Kais are easy to train, especially when they find the training fun and engaging. This makes them excellent candidates for agility and barn hunting.
They have a moderate prey drive so they can be untrustworthy off leash.
Shiba Kais will typically weigh about 17 pounds give or take and have a plush coat that can vary in color from black / white, tan / white, grey / white and sesame. More color combinations are possible depending on the Shiba Inu parent.
A Shiba Kai is a beautiful Shiba mix that will be a vocal and entertaining member of the family.
Shiba Inu Beagle Mix - Shi Beagle
Shiba Inu Beagle mix courtesy of S. McKee
The Shiba Inu Beagle mix or “Shi-Beagle” is a medium-sized dog that makes good family companions.
Combining the loyalty and intelligence of the Shiba Inu with the friendly, family-natured temperament of the beagle - the Shi-Beagle is sort of a “mellowed-out” version of a typical Shiba Inu.
Shi-Beagles will have moderate prey drive and do need regular exercise and mental enrichment.
They’re not the easiest dogs to train but with regular training sessions, along with tempting rewards, Shi-Beagles can become obedient dogs.
Shi-Beagles are alert dogs that make them good watch dogs.
Most Shi - Beagles weigh about 18 to 35 pounds and stand about 15” in height.
Depending on which genes dominate, Shi-Beagles may have pointed ears like a Shiba or floppy ears like a Beagle.
Some Shi-Beagles have a tendency to easily put on weight, so a balanced / lean diet is a must.
Shi Beagles can have tri - colored, red, tan / white, black / white, sesame, or cream coat colors.
Families will appreciate that Shi-Beagles are loyal, loving, and low key companions ready and willing to share the couch.
Shiba Inu Shih Tzu - Shiba Tzu
Shiba Inu Shih Tzu mix Komet courtesy of C. Harper
The Shiba Inu Shih Tzu mix, or Shiba-Tzu is small-medium Shiba mix that has an excellent personality and would be a great family dog.
Shiba-Tzus are loyal and loving dogs that enjoy being near their families at all times.
This stems from the fact that Shih Tzus are professional “lap dogs” and love going everywhere you go.
Because Shiba Inus are opposite in that regard, Shib-Tzus are not "quite" as clingy as Shih Tzus not as aloof as pure Shibas/
Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them great dogs for apartment living.
Most Shiba-Tzus will happily tolerate young children and other dogs - especially if they’ve been socialized as a puppy.
Shiba Inu Shih Tzu mix Komet courtesy of C. Harper
A typical Shiba-Tzu will weigh about 14 pounds and stand at 10” in height.
Depending on which parent the pup takes more from, the Shiba-Tzu can have varying length coats in a wide range of color combinations.
This also applies to a Shiba-Tzus face where their muzzle, ears, and eyes can vary depending on which parents genes dominate that feature.
Regardless, a Shiba-Tzu will be a cute lap dog that’ll love their owners to pieces.
Shiba Inu Dachshund Mix - Shibadach
The Shiba Inu Dachshund mix, also referred to as the Shibadach is quite an interesting though very rare mix of two totally different types of dogs.
Dachshunds, affectionately known as “hot dogs” come in three different sizes - all smaller than a standard Shiba Inu.
This makes a Shibadach a good sized mix for apartments or smaller living areas.
Shibadachs can weigh between 10 - 20 pounds and have either short, wiry, or wavy coats in a variety of colors.
They are quite vocal and alert making them great watchdogs.
Despite being a somewhat quirky combo, Shibadachs have a great personality and absolutely love to be around their family members. They have moderate prey drive and energy and love to have ample toys to play with.
Shiba Inu Pug Mix - Shug
Shiba Inu Pug Mix courtesy of M. Øcal
A Shiba Inu Pug mix is another unusual Shiba mix.
With such extreme physical differences, Shiba Inu Pug mixes, or Shugs or most often the result of an accidental breeding.
Nevertheless Shugs are still devoted and lovingly sweet family dogs full of confidence and bravado.
Their smaller size and lower exercise needs make them great candidates for apartment living. They also typically do better in smaller households with no children.
Shugs are moderately easy to train but can suffer from lack of interest so offering tasty training treats is an absolute must.
A typical Shug will weigh around 18 pounds and be 18” in height.
Now how the Shug will look like is another story. Some Shugs will take on more Pug attributes, while others will take more Shiba Inu attributes.
Hopefully, the longer snout of the Shiba Inu will help offset the Pug’s smashed in snout allowing easier breathing.
Shugs have short coats that can be either red, cream, black and tan, or sesame.
Shiba Inu Maltese Mix
A Shiba inu Maltese Mix is a sweet-natured, adorable Shiba mix that makes great all around pets for either a single owner or a family setting.
While a Maltese is sweet and loves affection / attention - Shibas are independent and aloof for the most part.
By bringing them together, a Shiba inu Maltese mix is a balanced, easy-going / friendly dog that gets along with both their human and animal family members.
Shiba inu Maltese mixes don’t need lots of exercise and will do well in an apartment setting.
A typical Shiba inu Maltese mix will weigh around 14 pounds and reach about 12” in height.
While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, Shiba inu Maltese mixes may have more hypoallergenic qualities than typical dog breeds.
Because both dogs have different facial features, the looks of a Shiba inu Maltese mix will vary depending on the genetics of each parent.
A Shiba Inu Maltese mix will be perfect for families that love to give their dogs lots of cuddles and kisses.
Shiba Inu Yorkie Mix
A Shiba Inu Yorkie mix is a cross between a Shiba Inu and a Yorkshire Terrier.
Shiba Yorkies are bright, intelligent dogs that make loyal companions to their master - though they don’t take to small children so much.
They have a high prey drive so owners of Shiba Yorkies need to give them lots of activity and toys to play with.
Training Shiba Yorkies is relatively easy due to their intelligence and willingness to please their owners.
Without proper socialization, some Shiba Yorkies can have anxiety and can be territorial.
The diminutive size of Yorkshire Terriers results in a Shiba Yorkie that weighs roughly 10 pounds.
They can be even smaller if the Yorkshire Terrier parent is a “teacup” variety.
Shiba Yorkies typically have pointed, triangular ears and medium length plush coats in various coat colors.
Healthwise, Shiba Yorkies are a pretty healthy dog with a long life span, 13-16 years.
Ideally, a Shiba Yorkie would be perfect for a one-dog owner so they don’t have to share attention with other dogs. They do particularly well with elders and can be great companions for them.
Read more about the Shiba Inu Yorkie mix here.
Final Thoughts
Mixed bred Shiba Inus as well as the millions of other mixed bred dogs all around the world are absolutely great dogs that need loving homes.
Adopting a dog in need is a truly noble deed that is good on so many levels.
Purebred Shiba Inus are wonderful dogs as well, but they do require an owner that understands the quirks and challenges of this primitive breed.
Additionally, there aren't enough reputable and ethical breeders of Shiba Inus to meet the demand resulting in high costs and long wait lists for quality pups.
This results in most Shiba Inu puppies coming from puppy mills and backyard breeders.
Supporting backyard breeders and puppy mills feeds an endless cycle of animal suffering, Shibas with serious health issues, and animal overpopulation.
By adopting a mixed breed Shiba in need instead of supporting puppy mills / backyard breeder, you are being a part of the answer and not a part of the problem - a true dog warrior and Shiba champion.
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