Shiba Inu: Challenging But Not the Worst Dog Breed

Understanding the Shiba Inu Breed and Their Challenges

The Shiba Inu is an ancient Japanese dog breed that has recently surged in popularity across the world. With their fox-like appearance and independent, bold personalities, they capture the hearts of many new owners. However, the Shiba is not the right match for everyone.

While the internet has painted Shibas as snarling, aggressive "devil dogs," this caricature is inaccurate. Shibas do have more complex temperaments and training challenges than average. But when properly trained and cared for, Shibas can make wonderful companion dogs in the right homes.

To help separate fact from fiction, here is an in-depth look at why the Shiba Inu breed requires special care, but is still far from the "worst dog ever" when matched with experienced owners.

Common Behavioral Traits of Shiba Inus

Here are some of the most frequently-cited behavioral traits of the Shiba Inu breed:

• Strong-willed, independent, and stubborn
• Not naturally eager-to-please like some breeds
• Can be aggressive toward other dogs if not socialized
• Have a strong prey drive toward small animals
• Prone to resource guarding without training
• Aloof toward strangers and uncomfortable with handling
• Intelligent but harder to train and motivate
• Easily bored and prone to destructive chewing

These traits differ greatly from highly biddable breeds like Labrador Retrievers that aim to please their owners. But while challenging, these behaviors do not make Shibas impossible to own happily for the right owners.

Are Shiba Inus Aggressive toward Humans?

Shiba Inus have a reputation for aggression that is greatly exaggerated online. While they are independent and more protective than most breeds, human-directed aggression is extremely uncommon in the breed.

With early socialization and training, Shibas bond closely with their families. However, poor handling when young or lack of socialization can lead to fear-based aggression in some cases. With proper prevention efforts, true aggression toward owners is rare.

Shibas can be more dog aggressive if not socialized with other dogs starting young. They also have high prey drives typical of primitive breeds. But human aggression is not an ingrained trait of the Shiba Inu when properly raised.

Signs of Good Temperament in Shiba Inu Puppies

When selecting a Shiba Inu puppy, look for the following indicators of good temperament:

• Willingness to approach and be handled
• Comes readily when called
• Confident but not overly pushy or nippy
• Tolerates petting; settles down when picked up
• Responsive to redirection and correction

Avoid shy, fearful, or overly aggressive puppies, as these can signal temperament issues down the road.

Challenges of Owning a Shiba Inu

While not anywhere near the worst or most dangerous breed, Shiba Inus do present some unique challenges for owners:

• Extensive shedding - Shibas are heavy shedders and require frequent brushing/grooming.
• High prey drive - Their hunting instincts must be controlled and channeled properly.
• Dog aggression - Extensive socialization is required to minimize same-sex aggression toward other dogs.
• Roaming tendencies - Shibas have retained a strong wandering instinct from their village dog past and can be prone to roaming off-leash.
• Training difficulty - They are intelligent but highly independent, requiring motivation-based training approaches.
• Vocalizations - Shibas are prone to talkative vocalizations like the distinctive "Shiba scream."

These traits make the Shiba better suited to experienced dog owners versus first-time pet owners. They require extensive early socialization, training, supervision, and outlet for their energy to prevent behavior issues from developing.

Are Shiba Inus Good Family Dogs?

Shiba Inus can adapt well to family living in the right circumstances. However, their independent nature makes them better suited for families with older, dog-savvy children.

Shibas are not a good match for families with very young or special needs children who may unintentionally get nipped due to the dog's sensitivity. Their high prey drive can also be risky around small pets like hamsters.

With proper introduction and supervision, Shibas can thrive in families who provide them proper structure, training, exercise, and understanding of their temperamental breed traits.

Tips for Owning a Shiba Inu in a Family

• Start socialization and training as early as possible.
• Set clear rules and structure via reward-based training.
• Give them outlets for exercise and mental stimulation.
• Teach children proper handling and interaction.
• Supervise around small children and pets.
• Provide escape spaces when needed.

Common Health Issues in Shiba Inus

In general, Shiba Inus are a sturdy, healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12-15 years. However, some common health issues to be aware of include:

• Allergies - Both food and environmental allergies can be issues.
• Glaucoma - Abnormal pressure in the eyes causing vision loss.
• Luxating patellas - Dislocated kneecaps, more often in smaller Shibas.
• Hip dysplasia - Malformation of the hip joints.
• Hypothyroidism - Underactive thyroid gland.

Reputable breeders screen breeding dogs for these conditions to minimize risk. But prospective owners should still have pets examined by a vet and be aware of signs of any hereditary conditions.

Are Shiba Inus Hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic. But Shiba Inus are lighter shedders than double-coated breeds like Huskies or Malamutes, making them moderately better for allergy sufferers.

Puppies should still be tested around family members prior to adoption to check for allergic reactions. Homes must also be prepared for the breed's heavy seasonal shedding periods.

Finding a Reputable Shiba Inu Breeder

Extensive research is required to find a responsible Shiba Inu breeder. Warning signs of irresponsible breeders include:

• No health testing or guarantees on puppies
• Offering puppies via retail stores or online
• Unwilling to show parents' health records
• Multiple litters available simultaneously
• Won't screen potential buyers
• Unwilling to take dogs back

Look for breeders who health test, socialize pups, prove lineage, and screen adopters. Be very wary buying from pet stores, websites, or backyard breeders.

Should You Get a Shiba Inu?

Shiba Inus are not a good choice for inexperienced first-time dog owners or families with very small children or pets. Their temperamental nature and training challenges require an owner with dog experience and time for proper handling.

In the right home, a Shiba can be a wonderfully unique and loyal companion. But potential owners must fully commit to socialization, training, exercise, supervision, and accepting this primitive breed's more free-

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.