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Shiba Inu — Grooming Guide
How Often to Groom
- Brushing: 2–3 times per week
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly
- Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks
- Heavy shedding seasons: Daily brushing + HV drying
About the Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus have a thick, plush double coat with a dense undercoat and a straight topcoat. They shed moderately year‑round and blow coat heavily twice a year. Their coat is naturally clean and repels dirt, but regular brushing is essential to manage shedding and maintain skin health.
Before You Start
Your Shiba Inu Bathing Package includes everything needed to bathe this breed safely, including a Shampoo Dilution Bottle and a Moisturizing Shampoo for double coats. Your Grooming Package includes the tools needed for brushing, de‑shedding, drying, and maintaining their thick coat.
Shiba Inu Bathing Package
Shop the recommended bathing package here:
Moisturizing Bathing Package
- Moisturizing Shampoo
- Shampoo Dilution Bottle
- Shammy Towel
- Microfiber Towel
Shiba Inu Grooming Package
Shop the recommended grooming package here:
Moisturizing Grooming Package
- Slicker Brush
- Undercoat Rake
- Shedding Comb
- Metal Comb
- Thinning Shears
- Conditioning Spray (trial size)
Shiba Inu Care Package
Shop the full care package here:
Care Package
- Ear Cleaner
- Eye Wipes
- Paw Balm
- Nail Clippers
Additional Grooming Tools
- High‑Velocity Dryer (HV Dryer)
- Grooming Arm
- Extra Shammy Towel
- Extra Microfiber Towel
Step‑By‑Step Grooming Guide
1. Brush the Coat
Start with an undercoat rake to remove loose undercoat.
Follow with a slicker brush to smooth the topcoat.
Use a metal comb to check for tangles behind the ears and in the pants.
2. Clean the Ears
Use ear cleaner and cotton to wipe the outer ear weekly.
3. Trim the Nails
Trim every 2–3 weeks.
Shibas often have strong nails that grow quickly.
4. Bathe the Shiba Inu
Bathe every 4–6 weeks using diluted moisturizing shampoo.
Rinse thoroughly — their dense coat holds soap easily.
5. Dry the Coat
Use a shammy towel, then a microfiber towel.
Finish with an HV dryer to remove loose undercoat and reduce shedding.
6. Tidy the Feet & Feathering
Use thinning shears to neaten the feet and rear.
Avoid over‑trimming — Shibas should look natural.
7. Apply Leave‑In Conditioner
Work a small amount through the coat to reduce dryness and add shine.
Double Coat Notes
Never shave a Shiba Inu. Their double coat regulates temperature and protects their skin from sunburn and injury. Shaving can permanently damage coat texture.
Final Thoughts
Shiba Inus are moderate shedders with a naturally clean coat. With regular brushing and proper grooming, they stay healthy, shiny, and comfortable.
FAQ
How often should a Shiba Inu be groomed?
Brush 2–3 times per week; daily during shedding season.
Should you shave a Shiba Inu?
No. Their double coat should never be shaved.
How do you reduce shedding?
Undercoat raking, HV drying, and regular brushing.
How often should you bathe them?
Every 4–6 weeks.
But these tools pay for themselves faster than you think.
A typical groom costs $70–$120. If you go every 4–6 weeks, the tools usually pay for themselves in 3–5 grooms.
But the money isn't even the biggest part.
- You know exactly how your dog is being treated.
- No contamination from other dogs.
- No chance of your dog being drugged without your knowledge.
- No rough handling behind closed doors.
- No stress from loud salons or unfamiliar animals.
- Your dog stays in the place they feel safest — home.
Your dog trusts you more than anyone. Grooming them yourself honors that trust.
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