Is a Shiba Inu the dog for you?
The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the Japanese native breeds and it was originally developed for hunting. It was perfectly suited to the dense undergrowth of Japan’s mountain areas. A small compact dog, usually growing to around 14 – 17 inches it is well known for its agility and keen senses.
As you will regularly hear from Shiba Inu owners , the breed has a very independent nature. They are naturally confident and courageous although if not correctly socialised during their formative years they can become timid and withdrawn especially around strangers. Because of this thorough socialisation from the outset is essential with any Shiba Inu. As you will learn from my own story owning a Shiba Inu who hasn’t been socialised will test your patience to the max and will take months or even years of patience and understanding to overcome.
It is essential that you establish a pecking order with your Shiba Inu because if given the chance they will promote themselves as pack leader. If you establish yourself as the pack leader from the outset it will make training of your Shiba Inu much easier. The Shiba Inu isn’t the easiest of dogs to train and you should always (as with any dog) be wary of letting them loose off the lead. A natural hunter they love to chase so you need to keep them away from small animals and pets such as Rabbits and Guinea Pigs etc. You will often find that the last person to leave the park is the owner who thought their Shiba would come straight back when called if let off the lead.
Like any dog, the Shiba Inu likes to be entertained, regular walks and playtime workouts will help to keep your Shiba Inu happy.
