Shiba Inus are generally a healthy and strong breed, but they can experience some common health issues that are seen in many different breeds of dogs. A healthy lifestyle and regular veterinary visits can greatly increase the odds\u00a0extending your Shiba Inu’s lifespan<\/p>\n

Luxating patellas<\/strong>
\nLuxating patellas are a leg condition that causes problems in the knee joint and can result in lameness, sometimes requiring surgery. If your Shiba Inu is limping, especially in the rear end, you should visit your dog\u2019s veterinarian for an exam.<\/p>\n

Hip dysplasia<\/strong>
\nHip dysplasia can also affect your Shiba Inu, and it can be diagnosed by your veterinarian with x-ray imaging. A dog who seems stiff or weak in the rear end should be evaluated by a veterinarian, and breeding dogs should be evaluated for good hips prior to joining a breeding program and passing this genetic disease along to puppies.<\/p>\n

Eye Defects<\/strong>
\nEye defects can also affect Shiba Inus, such as progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts and glaucoma. Evaluation of your Shiba Inu\u2019s eyes can be done by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, and all breeding dogs should have their eyes tested prior to joining a breeding program.<\/p>\n

Allergies<\/strong>
\nAllergies can be a problem for Shiba Inus as well. Flea, food or environmental allergies do not necessarily affect your dog\u2019s lifespan, but they can impact the quality of life if not effectively treated by a veterinarian.<\/p>\n

Training to Improve Your Shiba Inu\u2019s Life Span<\/strong>
\nTraining your dog can improve his or her lifespan by keeping your dog safely at your side and under control using verbal cues. Training also exercises your dog\u2019s brain and keeps him or her happy, which contributes to good health. Training your Shiba Inu to recall on cue will improve the odds of him or her living a long and healthy life.
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