Both the Shiba Inu and the Australian Shepherd are popular family companions due to their adorable looks and confident personalities.
The Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix is a cross between two breeds that were historically used for hunting and guarding. Therefore, the Aussie Shiba will also be a great watchdog.
However, they can be very vocal and destructive if they are left alone for long periods.
With the sensitive side of this mixed breed dog, they also require proper training to prevent stubborn behaviors from developing. These calm and loyal dogs, however, get along well with young children.
Below, you’ll view pictures and read more about the physical characteristics, personality traits and other important details about the Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix – to ensure he’s the perfect pet for your home!
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts about the Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix
| Breed Type: | Crossbreed/Designer/Hybrid Dog |
| Other Names: | Aussie Shiba |
| Size: | Medium-sized dog |
| Eyes: | Dark Blue |
| Ears: | Floppy or Pointed |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 20 to 40 Pounds |
| Average Height: | 15 to 25 Inches |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 15 years |
| Apartment Living: | No, they are best suited to a large home with a fenced-in yard |
| Ideal for: | Experienced Owners, Active Families, Spacious Homes |
| Coat: | Either Coarse or Smooth, Medium in Length and Water Repellent |
| Coat colors: | Black, White, Red, or Merle |
| Suitable for first time owners: | No |
| Trainability: | Moderate Difficulty (Needs a firm or experienced trainer) |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs: | You need to brush your dog at least 2 times per week to maintain their coat in superb condition |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 60 minutes of exercise every day is required |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Low, should not be left alone for more than 4 to 6 hours |
| Feeding and Diet: | 2 to 3 cups of high quality dog food each day, divided into two or three meals |
| Maintenance: | Moderate to High |
| Possible Health Issues: | Hip Dysplasia, Patellar Luxation, Allergies, Eye Problems |
| Temperament: | Active, Energetic, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Protective, Sensitive, Can be Aggressive |
| Cat Friendly: | Moderate, The Shiba parent love chasing after other animals (Early Socialization Is Must) |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes (But Early Socialization Is Always Recommended). If they take after the Shiba parent they may not get along with dogs of the same sex |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes (Early socialization is must + Adult supervision is necessary if you have smaller kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | They may bark a lot (can be controlled by proper training) |
| Price: | $500 to $1800+ |
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What is a Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Called?
The Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix is also known as an Aussie Shiba. This is a crossbreed or a designer dog that combines two purebred dogs—the Shiba Inu and the Australian Shepherd.
Since Aussie Shiba is a mixed breed dog, the physical characteristics and personality traits can vary from one puppy to another.
Let’s now find out where the Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix comes from.
The History of the Aussie Shiba
Little is known about the origins of the Australian Shepherd and Shiba Inu Mix.
Intentional crossbreeding most likely started recently, probably in the US.
However, that is an assumption. This hybrid dog’s parent breeds have long histories, though. You have most likely heard of these adorable parent breeds before, so let’s take a look at each of them.
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The Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese breed that was a cherished companion in tracking and hunting small game.
Shiba Inus developed with the Akita breed. Being smaller, however, Shiba Inus did not work as attack dogs or guard dogs. They were also calmer and friendlier than Akitas.
The breed was quite unknown for some time and only left japan in the 1950s. The breed nearly disappeared due to the bombings of the Second World War. Despite this, they survived and grew in popularity in the 1970s. The AKC recognized the Shiba Inu as a unique bred in 1993.
Today, Shiba Inus have gained a lot of followers on social media sites like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube. Apart from the Shiba Inu and the Akita, the other Japanese dog breeds are Kishu, Kai, Hokkaido, and Shikoku.
The Australian Shepherd
You’d struggle to find a dog with the Aussie’s extraordinary track record. For more than a century, these canines have worked in the United States – herding and controlling livestock for ranchers and farmers.
Despite the name, the Australian Shepherd did not originate from Australia. In fact, the Aussie isn’t even recognized in Australia as a native dog breed.
Settlers from around Europe immigrated to America. Many of them brought with them their favorite herding dogs to assist in managing flocks of sheep. Therefore, the Aussie breed was actually refined in America.
The traits of strong guarding and herding instincts, remarkable intelligence, and alertness make the Australian Shepherd a popular working dog even today.
So what should you expect from your new Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu puppy? Let’s first take a lot at the appearance of this hybrid dog.
What Does A Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Look Like?
The physical characteristics of an Aussie Shiba can vary from puppy to puppy. Generally speaking, the Aussie Shiba is a medium-sized breed of dog with fox-like features.
They have a wedge-shaped head, dark blue eyes, floppy or pointed ears, and a muscular or sleek body.
The Shiba Inu breed tends to dominate the Aussie’s appearance, so you’re likely to get a pup with a narrow, sleek face, but with a longer body than that of the Shiba Inu.
Size, Height, Weight: How Big Will A Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Get?
The Aussie Shiba is a medium-sized dog that weighs around 20 to 40 pounds and stands between 15 and 25 inches when fully grown.
Their size will depend mainly on the Australian Shepherd’s characteristics your puppy inherits since the Australian Shepherds are larger than Shiba Inus.
Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Coat and Coat Colors
Their coat will either be smooth or coarse. The coat may also be medium in length and water repellent because of the Australian Shepherd’s coat.
The Aussie Shiba have black, white, red, or merle coats.
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Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Dog Mix Temperament & Personality
Predicting what traits your Aussie Shiba dog will inherit is a tall order because each puppy can take more after one parent or the other. All mixed breeds are unpredictable, even with puppies from the same litter.
What we can do is to study the parent breeds. These two quirky breeds of dogs combine to produce a unique pooch.
Shiba Inus are loyal dogs, but can also be quite aggressive. Meanwhile, Australian Shepherds are more gentle but very intelligent.
You can expect your Aussie Shiba to blend the Shiba Inu’s possessiveness and aggressiveness with the Australian Shepherd’s loyalty, friendliness, and intelligence.
The two primary breeds are quite sensitive, so you need to be kind and patient when training your Aussie Shiba.
Since the two parents have guarding and herding backgrounds, the Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix makes a wonderful watchdog. Both primary breeds are also alert and protective of their pack and flock.
Behavior with Kids
This hybrid dog is good with kids, as well. Both Australian Shepherds and Shiba Inus are known to be friendly towards children.
Still, it’s important to supervise playtime with smaller kids.
Behavior with Cats and Other pets
The Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix is also fine with cats and other dogs. However, you’ll want to socialize your puppy to prevent the Shiba Inu’s aggressive behaviors from setting in.
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Are Shiba Inu Australian Shepherds Good For First Time Owners?
No. The Aussie Shiba can be territorial or somewhat aggressive. This dog is ideal for experienced dog owners who have trained aggressive or territorial dogs before.
That said, a well-trained and properly socialized Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix can make a loving, loyal and protective family pet.
Shiba Inu Aussie Mix Exercise Needs
The energy levels of an Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix are somewhat high. Both primary breeds have tons of energy.
While the Shiba Inu parent can adapt to apartment living, Australian Shepherds do not.
Both parent dogs require ample space to thrive. Daily walks, games, and training are essential for this mixed breed dog. Otherwise, he can resort to chewing, digging or destroying furniture when bored.
The Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix needs at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. They also need interactive dog toys to stay mental enriched.
Both parents – particularly the Shiba Inu – have a high impulse to roam and wander. Therefore, be sure to keep your Aussie Shiba on leash if the space is not enclosed.
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Training the Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix
Training is an integral part of keeping a healthy and happy dog. It will allow your Aussie Shiba to learn some essential commands and skills.
It’s also important to realize that training is a continuous process. Dogs can change over time. Like humans, they need to learn and adjust when faced with new situations.
You need to establish yourself as your dog’s pack leader from the word-go. You should start housetraining your dog right away. Your dog needs to learn to respect you. This will help prevent any accidents, disputes, and to keep your fur baby out of trouble.
Establish a reward-based training system. Both puppies and older dogs love treats and dread punishments. Keep any disciplinary measures humane and fair. Use praise, gifts and treats as part of your positive reinforcement methods when training them.
You should also socialize your canine companion early. If not properly socialized, your dog can become aggressive and/or develop separation anxiety. Recommended socialization activities include meeting other dogs, meeting your guests, and exploring new surroundings. These activities will allow your dog to develop courage, trust, and tolerance.
Do Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Shed A Lot?
Shiba Inus shed much more than Australian Shepherds, but the Aussie Shiba sheds moderately.
Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Grooming
The Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd requires brushing at least twice per week to maintain their coat in superb condition.
Brushing their coat regularly will help keep them healthy and beautiful. Grooming your dog is also essential for strengthening the bond you share with your doggo.
Make sure to use high-quality dog shampoos when bathing your dog. Otherwise, you should buy deodorizing wipes for dogs to help keep him fresh and beautiful.
Another crucial part of your dog’s grooming routine is checking and cleaning their ears regularly. Floppy ears can easily accumulate dust and dirt.
Remember to trim their nails regularly, as well. Not only do long nails take the fun out of playtime, but they can also break and cause pain.
For dental care, brush your Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix’s teeth at least three times per week using high quality toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs.
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Aussie Shiba Feeding and Diet
Feeding your dog high quality dog food can do wonders for the happiness and health of your pooch.
For a satisfied Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix, feed him 2 to 3 cups of dry dog food. Split this amount into 2 to 3 means to prevent overeating, bloat, and to maintain your dog’s energy levels.
Moreover, look for premier quality dry kibble that is suitable for your dog’s age, weight, and health.
To maintain the health and beauty of your dog’s coat, give them wild Alaskan Salmon Oil or probiotics. Also, make sure your pooch has access to clean, fresh water every day.
Aussie Shiba Life Expectancy
Both parent breeds have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, so you can expect your Aussie Shiba to live with you for up to 15 years, as well.
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Aussie Shiba Health Issues
The Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix is known for his excellent health. These dogs are also very resilient and do not experience many healthy problems. However, they can inherit health issues that affect both the Australian Shepherd and the Shiba Inu.
As such, the following health issues could occur in an Aussie Shiba:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Eye Problems, such as cataracts, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, and Iris Coloboma
- Allergies
Finding A Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix for Sale
Reputable Aussie Shiba breeders will only let families with ample space to buy their puppies. That is because Australian Shepherd Mixes need a lot of space to run and play around to meet their exercise needs.
The breeder should have been in business for a number of years, and their dogs should be properly socialized.
Be sure to meet the parent dogs and avoid buying any puppy if the breeder doesn’t show you the parent dogs or if the parent dogs show signs of stress, fear, or aggression.
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How Much Does A Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Cost?
The price of Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix Puppies is around $400 to $1,800+, depending on the location, coat colors, and the breeder’s reputation.
These mixes do not come cheap, but they are not the most expensive, either.
You also need to consider other costs like health checkups, food, and toys – which can increase the costs considerably.
You should also buy a good crate for your dog. We recommend the Midwest Folding Crate for Intermediate Dogs because it is strong and durable. We also suggest buying a comfortable bed like the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed for your canine friend.
Finding an Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix for Adoption
You can also save money by adopting an Aussie Shiba. By adopting an older dog, you can also avoid the more challenging aspects of dog training.
You’ll also be pleased to adopt a dog because you’ll be providing a needy pup with a loving home.
Related Questions
Are Shiba Inu Australian Shepherds Good Family Dogs?
Yes, Shiba Inu Australian Shepherds make great family dogs. They are good with children and also make great watchdogs.
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Are Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs Aggressive?
The Shiba Inu can be somewhat aggressive towards other dogs. Most Shibas also love chasing after other animals because they have natural hunting instincts. Meanwhile, Aussies are not known to be aggressive but are very protective of their owners and families.
Do Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mixes Like To Cuddle?
While Aussie Shibas are loving and affectionate, they only enjoy cuddling with the humans they trust.
Do Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs Bark A Lot?
Yes. Both parents are considered to be very vocal. They will bark at loud noises, strangers, and other animals. They also bark when they are bored or left alone for too long.
Can Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. A bored Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix dog can become vocal and destructive if left alone for too long.
How Much Exercise Do Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs Need?
Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs are energetic and need at least 60 minutes of exercise each day. That should include daily walks, playtime, and training.
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Do Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
No. Even if your Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix is smaller than average, this breed of dog is not ideal for apartment living.
Their boundless energy require a spacious home with a fenced-in yard.
Are Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs are quite easy to maintain in terms of grooming. They are naturally clean and odor-free. However, they need regular brushing to keep the shedding at bay.
Is A Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd Mix Right For You?
The Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd is a wonderful canine companion. They are extremely loyal and make excellent watchdogs.
However, they need a diligent or experienced owner. First time owners or those with busy schedules should think twice before adding one of these puppies to their families.
If you think you can handle an impressive mix like the Aussie Shiba, then why not? Go ahead and start scouring rescues near you. If you want to buy, make sure to do business with an ethical and reputable breeder.
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Other Australian Shepherd Mixes
Love Australian Shepherds but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Australian shepherd mix breed dogs.
1. Australian Shepherd Doberman Mix
2. Australian Shepherd Beagle Mix
3. Australian Shepherd Rottweiler Mix
4. Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix
5. Border Collie Australian Shepherd Mix
6. Australian Shepherd Boxer Mix
7. Australian Shepherd Dachshund Mix
8. Australian Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix
9. Australian Shepherd Husky Mix
10. Australian Shepherd Saint Bernard Mix
11. Australian Shepherd Lab Mix
12. Australian Shepherd Pomeranian Mix
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