International Travel with a Shiba Inu: Japan Rules, Breed Notes and Routes
Shiba Inus are increasingly popular outside Japan, and many owners find themselves relocating and wondering how to manage the move. Whether you are taking a Shiba to Japan (or back), to the UK, or across to Australia, here is what you need to know.
Breed Restrictions for Shiba Inus
Shiba Inus are not on any banned breed list and are not subject to breed-specific legislation in any country we know of. They are a Japanese Spitz-type breed, compact and athletic, and not classified as dangerous in any jurisdiction.
Cabin or Hold?
Shiba Inus typically weigh between 7 and 11 kg. Combined with a carrier, they often fall just over the in-cabin weight limits of most airlines. Some small female Shibas may qualify for in-cabin on shorter European or Japanese domestic routes.
For most international routes, Shiba Inus travel in the cargo hold as manifested live animals. They handle this well compared to more anxious breeds – Shibas are stoic and self-contained.
Moving to Japan with a Shiba Inu
Returning a Shiba to Japan is one of the more demanding pet relocations in the world. Japan has a complex multi-step process managed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) Animal Quarantine Service:
- Microchip (ISO standard)
- Two rabies vaccinations given at least thirty days apart
- Rabies titre test (blood sample taken at least thirty days after the second vaccination, at an approved laboratory)
- Advance inspection and paperwork filing with Japan’s Animal Quarantine Service
- A twelve-hour (or longer) quarantine on arrival if all requirements are met, or up to 180 days if they are not
Start the process a minimum of seven to eight months before travel to Japan. Missing any step extends the quarantine.
Other Key Routes
- UK to USA: Standard USDA APHIS requirements. No breed-specific issues for Shiba Inus.
- Japan to UK: UK APHA-compliant health certificate, microchip, current vaccinations.
- USA to Australia: Australian DAFF requirements, titre test, waiting period.
Temperament and Travel
Shiba Inus are known for independence and can be reserved with strangers. Introduce the crate well in advance of travel – some Shibas take longer than most breeds to accept crate confinement. Once comfortable, they typically travel without distress.