Shiba Inu breeders and owners should take great care when attempting to breed this variety of dog. When choosing the dogs which a Shibu Inu breeder is planning to breed, they should first look into the medical history and general health of the dogs in question.

Overall the Shiba Inu breed of dog is very healthy and energetic. They are able to brave outdoor conditions but adjust well to living indoors as well. They do not require a special diet like many other breeds of dogs, and can simply sustain a healthy lifestyle from general exercise and basic dog food. This is one of the many qualities that draw Shiba Inu breeders to this specific type of dog.

-Their great agility alone is enough to assist them from abstaining from general injuries that could render other breeds helpless.

However, this specific type of dog does have a few heredity defects which all owners and potential Shiba Inu breeders should be aware of. However, there are not too many serious disorders to concern yourself with.

Patellar Luxation is one of the more prevalent and possibly devastating conditions that all Shiba Inu breeders should take note of. In this disorder the kneecap is displaced in the dogs body. There are various stages of this disease. The first stage involves the dislodging of the kneecap, however it can manually be returned to its proper place. In stage four of this disease the kneecap can not be replaced or moved back into place and can cause possible lameness or bowed legs. However, most cases of this involve stage one.

A Shiba Inu breeder should have their possible breeding partners checked for this abnormality.

Another common issue amongst the Shibu Inu breed is hip dysphasia. Alongside this are heredity eye defects which are widespread throughout the entire canine world. Cataracts is the common eye defect. Recent studies show findings that eye defects are more common in the females than males of this breed.

However, the most common health care concern that Shiba Inu breeders should be aware of is simple allergies such as flea allergy dermatitis, also known as FAD. When a dog is suffering from this health problem they will generally chew on their skin and eat away at their hair. For the majority of Shiba Inu's, this disorder can simply be treated with over the counter topical canine products. However, more serious cases require the dog to receive injections.

One other major concern that all Shiba Inu breeders should be aware of is possible dental health problems. A good deal of small breeds of dogs suffer from these common issues due to weak jaws, poorly aligned teeth and early tooth loss. However, this is not a major concern unless it is actually affecting the eating habits of the dog.

A detailed health history of dogs being considering for breeding, along with a few tests at a local Vet can truly benefit a Shiba Inu breeder, when it comes to choosing the right pair of dogs to breed.