Shiba Dogs

Shiba Inu Puppy Training

Shiba Inus are one of the truly old and elite purebred strains of dogs in modern society. A symbol of Japan since the 1000s, Shiba Inus are very strong willed. So, Shiba Inu puppy training can be quite a chore if your pup is particular stubborn or adventurous in your home.

Choosing Your Puppy

When you choose your Shiba Inu puppy, keep in mind how much goes into this breed. Shiba Inus are not prone to many health problems, a few have been known to get some minor joint problems so check the mother especialy for signs of this. Choose a puppy that is at least eight weeks old, friendly, and not aggressive.

Shiba Inu puppy training should start as soon as you bring your puppy home, but only if the dog is old enough and has been properly socialized. If the puppy is not yet 10 weeks old or if it has not be properly socialized with people and other dogs, make sure you do this first to avoid the creation of any excess aggression issues.

Shiba Inu Puppy Training

Once your puppy is old enough, start training with basic housetraining. Shiba Inus can be especially stubborn at a young age, so it is highly recommend you use crate training and are home as much as possible during house breaking. It will take slightly longer than normal to finalize the housebreaking process, but once they are broken, a Shiba Inu is extremely careful not to violate its home.

After you've established the basics, start creating an environment in which you are the clear and obvious alpha pack leader. Train your Shiba Inu puppy not to bite or nip using toys and a clear whining sound to show that it hurts. Do not allow your puppy to jump on the couch and never let it sleep in your bed. The crate should be used as much as possible in these early months as you stretch out how long the puppy can stay in there.

Shiba Inu puppy training should move into the obedience phase between 3 and 6 months with focus on basic commands like lying down, sitting, staying, focusing on you, coming when called, waiting inside doors and not pulling on the leash.

You will find that a Shiba Inu is very adept at picking up on these cues, but may not initially want to follow your lead due to its strong nature.

Using Shiba Inu Puppy Training to Protect Them

Because of their innate curiosity and courageous nature, a Shiba Inu will try to explore as much as possible. Teach them early not to chase cars, to stop at the curb and to make sure they don't run away from you in public. Never take a Shiba Inu off its leash until you can be sure it will return upon being called and not run too far from you. The risks are higher with Shiba Inus than with many other small breeds.

Proper Shiba Inu puppy training may seem a little tougher than normal when you first get your new little friend, but eventually you'll find that a Shiba Inu is among the most loyal, attentive dogs you could possibly own. They will stubbornly stay by your side, follow your instructions and stay clean indoors. But, only if you lay down the law early and make sure they follow your instructions in the future.