Shiba Inu Mixes: 30 Different Shiba Dog Crossbreeds

Last Updated on April 18, 2023

The Shiba Inu is a loved companion animal due to his small size, fox-like features, and bold, confident personality.

Mixing the Shiba Inu with other dog breeds can result in various equally cute breeds, each with a distinct personality.

Below we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular Shiba Inu mix dogs around so that you can pick the perfect one for your home!

What is a Shiba Inu?

Shiba Inus are ancient Japanese dogs with a deeply entrenched history as hunting dogs. They were used to flush out and hunt small game birds in Japan’s mountains.

Their name translates to brushwood dog due to bushes found in this area. Today, they are the most popular companion dog in Japan.

Almost wiped out by canine distemper and bombing, Shiba Inus were brought back from the brink through intensive breeding programs using three remaining bloodlines.

The first Shiba was imported into the United States of America after world war ii. 

They were registered by the American Kennel Club in 1992, with the National Shiba Club of America formed in the same year. They were moved to the AKC’s non-sporting group in 1997. 

The smallest of the ancient Japanese breeds, the Shiba Inu, has gained popularity in recent years because of their small size and super cute appearance.

Don’t be surprised to find Shiba Inus with lots of followers on YouTube and Instagram! The other five Japanese breeds include Kai, Kishu, Shikoku, Hokkaido, and Akita.

Shiba Inus come in four color variants, with a red-colored coat being the most popular. Their thick double coat has a soft undercoat and stiff outer coat, giving them a teddy bear-like appearance.

The Shiba Inu’s coat colors include cream, red, sesame, and black and tan. The Red Shiba Inu is the most common color while the Sesame and Black and Tan Shiba Inus are the rarest varieties.

Some of their most striking characteristics include their fluffy, curled tails, pointy ears, and smiley faces. These adorable looks are matched with a feisty, independent personality.

They make great family dogs as they are good with children and can also be fierce watchdogs. However, do be warned, they are known to be stubborn!

30+ Most Popular and Adorable Shiba Inu Mixes

The spirited Shiba Inu is not the best dog for first-time pet owners. Training this breed can be a challenge, while their smaller variant is not ideal for everyone, either.

Hence, crossing this Japanese small-size dog with other dog breeds can result in a more desirable companion. 

Before you go out and get a Shiba puppy of your own, let’s discover some of the most popular Shiba Inu mixes around and find out what makes each one unique: 

1. Siberian Husky Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shiba Husky)

The Shiba Husky is a mix between a Siberian Husky and a Shiba Inu. This hybrid is one of the common Shiba Inu crosses.

Shiba Huskies are medium-sized canines with the strong wolf- and fox-like features. They’re affectionate and playful family companions and they’re also skilled escape artists, just like its Husky parent.

2. Welsh Corgi Shiba Inu mix (AKA Corgi Inu)

One of the cuter designer breeds here is the Corgi Inu, regardless if it has a Pembroke or Cardigan Welsh Corgi parent. 

This mix will be a small, red, and cream-colored dog, well suited to various environments.

They’re excellent for families due to their loving, eager-to-please nature. Very protective of their humans and fiercely loyal, they also make good watchdogs.

Just keep a close eye on them around smaller pets and other dogs, as they tend to chase and hunt other creatures. 

3. German Shepherd Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shepherd Inu)

The Shiba Inu German Shepherd mix is a bold, confident dog that’s also very territorial. They make excellent, loyal guard dogs but need proper training to avoid any aggressive behavioral traits. 

As large dogs with a high energy level and a tendency to hunt and chase, they also can be a handful when exercising. And if you leave this dog alone for too long, it will become bored and destructive. 

Other things to be wary of with the German Inu are the tendency to shed a lot and develop joint problems such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation, with both parent breeds being particularly susceptible to these diseases.

These health issues can shorten your dog’s life expectancy, causing pain in the hips, kneecaps, joints, and difficulty moving.

4. Chihuahua Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shiba Chi)

A pocket-sized companion, the Shiba Chi is what you get when you cross the Shiba Inu breed with a Chihuahua. They have a big personality that makes up for their diminutive size. 

They’re confident, independent, and extremely loyal dogs as far as their family is concerned; however, they can show aggression to other animals.

Shiba Chis are best avoided if you have other pets or small children in your home. They can also yap a fair amount, and with a short coat that sheds consistently, they don’t withstand cold weather very well.

5. Pomeranian Shiba Inu mix (AKA Pom-Shi)

Another adorable, tiny Shiba Inu mix, the Pomeranian cross Shiba Inu boasts a fluffy coat and a fox-like face with characteristic pointy ears.

They’re highly marketed designer dogs due to their small size and Instagrammable appearance. 

While they may look like the ideal cuddle companion, the reality is the Pom-Shi can be quite aloof and very independent.

6. Poodle Shiba Inu mix (AKA Poo-Shi, Shiba-poo, Shibadoodle, or Shibapoo)

A Shiba-poo or Poo-Shi is created by mixing a Shiba Inu dog with a Poodle, usually a Miniature Poodle due to the sizes being most compatible.

This will result in a small to medium-sized dog with a curly, fluffy coat. If the Poodle parent dominates in this area, it is likely that your dog won’t shed at all.

This breed will be very athletic and outgoing with a need to please. They will want to be exercised but will also show affection to their owners.

However, with a smart, reserved nature, the Shiba Inu Poodle mix doesn’t tend to get along well with strangers. 

If you want to see some of the cutest crossbreed Shiba Inu puppies in the world, check out this video of some tiny Poo-Shis:

7. Labrador Retriever Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shibador)

Cross a Labrador Retriever with a Shiba Inu, and the result is the medium-sized, muscular Shibador. This sturdy and robust dog needs plenty of exercises but will reward you with a loving and loyal disposition.

The intelligent Shibador will also have a curious and playful mind, excelling at any challenge thrown their way. They will love having a job to do.

8. Golden Retriever Shiba Inu mix (AKA Golden Shiba)

Gloriously golden, the Shiba Inu Golden Retriever mix will have a thick, silky coat that is some variation of gold – be that a creamy yellow, honey-blonde, or rich auburn color. 

As the offspring of two hunting-trained breeds, the medium-sized Golden Shiba will have a strong prey drive and hunt other pets, particularly smaller animals like cats and rabbits.

Another thing to watch out for with the Shiba Inu Golden Retriever mix is that they are prone to developing cancer due to its prevalence among the Golden Retriever parent breed.

9. Border Collie Shiba Inu mix

A breed with extremely high energy, the Shiba Inu Border Collie mix needs plenty of exercises and mental stimulation.

Their active minds need to be kept entertained and working, or they could end up resorting to destructive habits to keep themselves busy.

And while they can be trained well, this Shiba Inu mix is known to have a stubborn streak.

The double coat of the Border Collie Shiba Inu mix needs to be regularly groomed as they will shed heavily, particularly with the seasons’ changing.

10. Pug Shiba Inu mix (AKA Pug Shiba)

Mix a Shiba Inu with a Pug, and you’ll end up with quite a comical-looking breed. Although rare, these dogs do stand out from a crowd with their flat faces, curly tails, foxy ears, wrinkly skin, and small size.

However, the parent Pug’s snub-nose can lead to several health problems and breathing issues for this hybrid. 

The Shiba Inu Pug mix will likely be a lively, friendly dog with quite a feisty personality.

Their spunky, intelligent, and alert nature makes them best suited to single homes where they will be given all the attention. 

11. Chow Chow Shiba Inu mix (AKA Chowba or Chow Inu)

What do you get if you cross a Shiba Inu with a Chow Chow? Meet the Chowba – a small breed with a gorgeously fluffy red-colored coat.

This cross can sometimes also have the black or blue tongue that is so characteristic of the parent Chow Chow. 

The Chow Inu will be a very protective dog, making them fantastic watchdogs, but with a strong prey drive, they may hunt down cats and other small animals.

Never trust these dogs off a leash when on a walk or at the dog park as they will dash away at any moment, chasing down squirrels or mice. 

12. Jack Russell Terrier Shiba Inu mix (AKA Jack Inus)

The Jack Russell Terrier Shiba Inu mix will be a small, formidable hunter with a fiery personality.

With both parent breeds being independent and highly intelligent, the Jack Inu is eager to please and loves to work.

Although small in size, they will need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. However, they tend to bond best with one person and thus are best suited to single owners.

13. Dachshund Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shibadach or Shibadox)

The Shiba Inu Dachshund mix or Shibadach is a cute, small mix breed with a sturdy, well-built body and short legs and the Dachshund parent’s elongated body.

Like the Dachshund, they can suffer from back problems, especially as they get older. 

Also, like the Dachshund, the Shibadox will be a friendly, social, people-orientated pet. The only thing is this breed does tend to get a touch territorial, especially protective of their toys, dog food, and bed. 

14. Beagle Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shi-Beagle)

The Shiba Inu Beagle mix, also known as the Shi-Beagle, is a medium-sized cross with a loveable face and oversized ears.

With both parent breeds having a hunting lineage, the Shi-Beagle tends to chase anything it sees, or better yet, smells. 

They also need plenty of playtimes and walks, but their small size makes them suitable for apartment living with enough exercise.

Just don’t leave them alone for extended periods, as these dogs can suffer from separation anxiety. 

15. Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu mix (AKA Aussie Shiba)

The Aussie Shepherd is a blend of two dogs that have been used historically for hunting and guarding purposes. Thus the Shiba Inu Australian Shepherd mix will be a protective watchdog.

They do have a tendency, though, to be overly vocal and even destructive if left alone for too long.

With a sensitive side to the Aussie Shiba, they also need positive, patient training to ensure no stubborn, negative behaviors set in.

This gentle, loyal personality does, however, make them surprisingly good with children. 

16. American Eskimo Shiba Inu mix (AKA Imo-Inu)

The Shiba Inu American Eskimo mix will be a short and sturdy dog with an expressive face, upright ears, and a thick, fluffy, white coat that sheds heavily.

They are not suitable for anyone who suffers from allergies. 

This dog’s size can vary with the American Eskimo parent coming in three sizes, namely toy, miniature, and standard, but they will be on the smaller side of Shiba Inu mixes. 

Both breeds are quite athletic and love to work. Their personalities, however, can be challenging to predict, with the Shiba Inu being independent and brave and the American Eskimo more loving and affectionate.

17. Alaskan Malamute Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shiba Malamute)

The Alaskan Malamute Shiba Inu mix is a medium to large-sized cross with a thick, luxurious coat known to shed heavily. Be prepared to have a house that is covered in fur if you decide to get a Shiba Malamute. 

You can expect an intelligent dog with a stubborn streak that makes them a challenge to train on the personality side.

As a result, they are best suited to firm owners who can establish themselves as an alpha. With proper training, the Shiba Malamute will be a very loyal and devoted dog.

18. Akita Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shibakita)

Akitas are a noble and dignified breed very similar to the Shiba Inu, with the same independent cat-like personality and double thick, red, or brown coat.

The Shiba Inu Akita mix will have the prominent fox-like features of both spitz-type parents with their triangular ears and slanted eyes. 

Shibakitas make excellent watchdogs, being very loyal and protective animals. While not always friendly to strangers, they still make perfect companions due to their ability to learn quickly.

You will need a house with a large, fenced-in yard for the Shibakita as this active breed is known to wander.

19. Miniature Schnauzer Shiba Inu mix (AKA Schnu)

Cross the Miniature Schnauzer with a Shiba Inu, and the result can be quite varied. While a Schnauzer has a thick, wiry coat with a characteristic beard, the Shiba Inu’s coat is red and thick.

As a result, the Schnu could end up with either coat!

As with looks, both parent breeds are quite different in terms of personality. Miniature Schnauzers are quite a bouncy, friendly, happy breed, with Shiba Inus being more reserved and aloof.

Your Schnu puppy could go either way but is likely to get along well with children, making them suitable pets for families.

20. Cairn Terrier Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shairn-Inu)

A rare Shiba Inu mix, the Shairn-Inu is a cross between a Cairn Terrier and a Shiba Inu. Again, with this cross, the parent breeds are quite different.

The Cairn Terrier has a bouncy, playful personality, which stands in contrast to the Shiba Inu. Thus it can be quite tricky to predict how these puppies will turn out.

However, they will likely have a rough, straight coat that requires minimal maintenance and will be of a small to medium size.

21. Miniature Pinscher Shiba Inu mix (AKA ShiPin)

The Shiba Inu Miniature Pinscher mix will be a small, compact dog with a reddish-brown, silky coat.

Despite their petite size, these powerful dogs pack a punch and can suffer a bit from a small-dog syndrome, meaning they think they are bigger than they are. 

Their large personality does, however, have a pleasant, people-orientated side, thanks in most part due to the Miniature Pinscher parent. 

22. Boston Terrier Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shibos)

With both the Shiba Inu and the Boston Terrier of a similar size and height, the Shibo will be a small dog.

Their coat could either be short and have the Boston Terrier’s tuxedo style, or thicker and red-colored like the Shiba Inu. A Shibo can suffer from breathing issues if it inherits the flat face of the Boston Terrier parent.

The Boston Terrier, however, will add a more friendly, lively side to the Shiba Inu’s more guarded personality. These dogs are also bound to be alert and protective of their families.

23. Cocker Spaniel Shiba Inu mix (AKA Shocker)

The oddly named Shocker is a mix of a Shiba Inu and Cocker Spaniel. This dog will be small in size, although looks can vary greatly, even within the same litter.

The Cocker Spaniel parent can bring out a more friendly, gentle, and happy side to the Shiba Inu’s personality.

This can make this crossbreed a good choice for families with children looking for a Shiba Inu mix dog.

Just be aware that eye problems and hip dysplasia are common ailments with this hybrid that can shorten their lifespan. 

24. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Shiba Inu mix (AKA Cava Inu)

The King Charles Spaniel Cavalier Shiba Inu mix, known as a Cava Inu, needs a moderate amount of maintenance with a thick, silky coat that requires regular brushing.

This coat will generally be red with yellow, white, or tan markings. The Cava Inu is an energetic little dog with a loyal, friendly, happy side that children will love. 

However, they also have a mischievous streak to their personalities that can be difficult for first-time dog owners to handle.

25. Papillon Shiba Inu mix (AKA Papi-Inu)

With a black and white coat and huge oversized ears, the Papillon Shiba Inu mix is a tiny bundle of cuteness.

Their small size is matched by a cheerful, outgoing personality and loving nature. They are vigilant and protective dogs; however, the Papi-Inu will have a strong territorial streak that can be quite difficult to control.

26. Shetland Sheepdog Shiba Inu mix (AKA Sheltie Inu)

The Sheltie Shiba Inu mix will be a loyal sidekick that wants to be involved in every aspect of your life. With a high energy level and robust, athletic build, they need a fair amount of daily exercise.

Sheltie Inus also have powerful guarding instincts and are very wary of strangers, and as a result, makes for fantastic watchdogs. 

27. Pitbull Shiba Inu mix

The Shiba Inu Pitbull mix is a very rare hybrid dog and typically occurs by accident. This particular Shiba Inu mix’s personality is quite intense, matched by a powerful, muscular body.

They will likely have short hair, upright ears, and sharp facial features.

These robust dogs are quite rowdy and boisterous and need a firm, dominant owner who can handle them properly.

If well trained and given early socialization, the Shiba Inu Pitbull mix can make a friendly, obedient pet. 

28. Samoyed Shiba Inu mix

The Samoyed is a fluffy breed, known for its luxurious white coat. Like the Shiba Inu, these dogs were also initially bred for hunting purposes, as well as herding.

With the Shiba Inu and Samoyed, both being strong-willed dogs, the Shiba Inu Samoyed mix will have a confident, bold personality.

However, the Samoyed also lends a more loving, gentle, family-focused side to the Shiba Inu mix. A good thing too, because their beautiful white coat just begs to be cuddled.

29. Basenji Shiba Inu mix

The Shiba Inu Basenji mix is a small to medium-sized cross with a sturdy, compact frame and fox-like appearance with little, upright ears, slanted eyes, and a curled tail.

With both dogs being quite similar in coat texture and color, this Shiba Inu mix will likely have a tan, orange, or red coat with brindle, black, or white markings.

These dogs will not be very friendly or affectionate, being curious of strangers but loyal to their own family. They are powerful and agile dogs and will want to be given a job to do.

Just watch out because they are exceptional at escaping, running fast, jumping fences, and digging trenches. 

30. Bulldog Shiba Inu mix

The Shiba Inu Bulldog mix will be a bit smaller than a Bulldog with a strong, robust body, broad face, wrinkly forehead, short snout, and triangular, upturned ears.

They can range in color from brown to white and anything in between. 

With both parent breeds known for their stubborn, willful personalities, the Shiba Inu Bulldog mix is likely to have the same independent spirit.

That said, they will also have a loving, friendly, and cheerful side, especially where their owners are concerned. 

Which Shiba Inu Mixes are Your Favorites?

Now that you know a bit more about the different Shiba Inu mixes out there, do you have a favorite?

Is it the fluffy and smart Poo-Shi, the noble Shibakita, the guardian Shepherd Inu, or the gentle Golden Shiba? Each one is unique and equally loveable.

Do you perhaps already own a Shiba Mix puppy? Let us know what you love about them in the comments below!