Mysteries of the Shiba Inu
Fearful
but Courageous
Young Shiba Inu's are fearful of many
things.---trains, planes, traffic, shopping malls, etc. The pups are highly
uncivilized and need a lot of exposure to things before they will feel
comfortable. But beware! Once they feel comfortable, they can become arrogant.
They have big egos.
It takes a while to gain the trust
of a Shiba Inu, but once bonded, they become very attached. If not socialized a
lot, they can become protective as well, eagerly confronting perceived threats
to their leader. In this respect they show no fear. The size or ferocity of the
"enemy" doesn't matter to them at all.
Disobedient but Devoted
Shiba Inu's resist captivity and any form of
restraint, such as wearing a collar. It takes a lot of work and patience to get
them to walk properly on a leash. And if they ever slip the leash, they may
disappear. But most return by themselves (after they have had their fun). They
have an amazing sense of direction. Trouble is, they don't look both ways before
crossing streets and so could get killed in traffic.
If you command them to "Come", they stare at you inquisitively, as if to ask "What for?" If you answer "treats" or "play" or "walk", they'll probably come running. If you don't answer, they probably won't come.
Though fiercely independent, they are nonetheless faithful to their leader. They are sort of one family dogs. They don't become destructive when separated from the family, but they get very, very sad. Most people wouldn't have the heart to board their Shiba Inu when they go away on vacation. It's better to find another family member to look after the dog.
Active but Calm.
Shiba's love activity and would like nothing
better than to play 24 hours a day. They are notorious attention seekers. But
they also like chewing a bone and taking naps, especially if they can snuggle up
close to someone they like. But they wake up quickly if there is any activity
going on in the house. Start doing a household chore and they appear out of
nowhere. Open the fridge door and they're there. They appear everywhere---like
little fairy sprites.
Sociable but Aloof
A Shiba Inu could never be happy living in a
doghouse. They want to be with the family at all times. They are very
inquisitive, interactive, in-your-face dogs. At the same time, they may not give
a warm reception to every guest that comes into your home. When some people come
over, they won't even go into the same room. On the other hand, they may adore
other guests, especially if the guests are willing to play with them, and play
the games that they like.
Extra Sensory Perception
A Shiba Inu can read emotions remarkably well.
You can't fool a Shiba Inu with a phony smile. If you are harboring any
resentment, they will know it. If you intend to trim their nails, they will know
that, too. Even if you just think about trimming nails, they will know.
Primitive Origins
Images of
deer, wild boar, and other prey are buried deep within the recesses of a Shiba
Inu's mind. These primitive tendencies become apparent at Christmas-time. A
Shiba Inu may attack any lawn ornament that depicts reindeer or antlers.
Just a dog?
A Shiba Inu is not just a dog. It is a unique
animal. The Japanese people recognized the special qualities of the breed and
declared it a National Treasure. Great contentment comes with owning a Shiba
Inu. Not only do you enjoy companionship with the animal but you develop a
kinship and friendship with all living things.