Why Are Shiba Inus Considered Difficult to Raise? Experts Point Out "6 Major Hurdles to Overcome": Prepare Yourself Mentally Before Adopting

As a popular dog breed in recent years, Shiba Inus are known for their cute appearance and expressive faces, but they are often considered "difficult" dogs to raise. Are Shiba Inus really that hard to care for? Ethan, a pet trainer at Hallopet Training Center, says that Shiba Inus are not as obedient as Golden Retrievers, nor as clingy as Labradors. Instead, they possess an independent will and a strong personality.

Therefore, raising them requires more understanding and patience. Many people are often attracted to the Shiba Inu's adorable appearance and rich expressions, but only realize after actually raising them that the Shiba Inu's personality and habits differ from what they imagined. Teacher Ethan will provide a detailed analysis for all owners from the aspects of Shiba Inu's personality, care, and training.

Why Shiba Inus Can Be Challenging to Raise

Shiba Inus, while adorable and popular, can be a challenging breed for some owners. Here are some reasons why:

1. Independent and Stubborn Personality:

Shiba Inus are naturally independent and have their own ideas. Unlike Golden Retrievers, which are more dependent on their owners and readily follow commands, Shiba Inus are more self-reliant. When out for a walk, a Shiba Inu might ignore its owner's calls and insist on exploring a place or scent that interests it. This stubbornness makes training more difficult, which can be frustrating for some owners, leading them to adopt incorrect approaches.

2. High Exercise Needs:

Originally bred as hunting dogs, Shiba Inus are naturally energetic and love to explore. If they don't get enough exercise, they may become overly excited and release their energy indoors, such as by chewing furniture, digging at carpets, or running around frantically at night. These behaviors can be troublesome for owners.

3. Strong Territorial Instincts:

Shiba Inus have a strong protective instinct over their territory. When strangers or other animals enter their space, they may bark incessantly or even show aggressive behavior. For example, a Shiba Inu might bark loudly at the door when a delivery person approaches, warning them not to come closer. Without proper guidance, this behavior can disturb the surroundings and even lead to conflicts.

4. Not Expressive with Affection:

Compared to more enthusiastic breeds like Labradors, Shiba Inus express affection in a more subtle and reserved manner. They might not actively cuddle or seek affection, which can disappoint owners who expect more physical interaction, leading them to mistakenly believe the Shiba Inu doesn't like them.

5. Heavy Shedding:

Shiba Inus have a double coat, and during shedding season, their hair can be found everywhere in the house, even floating in the air. Despite daily cleaning, hair may still linger on sofas, beds, and clothes, which is a significant challenge for those with cleanliness habits or hair allergies.

6. Difficult to Clean:

Shiba Inus' erect ears tend to accumulate earwax, and their skin folds and paw crevices easily trap dirt. If not cleaned regularly, this can lead to ear infections or skin problems.

How to Properly Care for a Shiba Inu

Caring for a Shiba Inu involves several key aspects to ensure they live a happy and healthy life. Here are some essential tips:

1. Start Socialization Early

Shiba Inus should begin socialization training as puppies. Expose them to various people, animals, environments, and sounds to prevent them from becoming overly sensitive to unfamiliar things later in life. For example, take your Shiba Inu puppy to the park weekly to interact with other gentle dogs.

2. Meet Their Exercise Needs

Provide at least 1-2 hours of daily walks for your Shiba Inu, and include time for free play. Take them to a safe, enclosed lawn or pet area where they can run and explore freely. Additionally, you can satisfy their hunting instincts and strengthen your bond by playing games like frisbee or fetch.

3. Groom Their Fur Regularly

Shiba Inus require regular grooming, ideally daily. For instance, spend about ten minutes brushing your Shiba Inu's fur while watching TV in the evening. Start from the head and brush in the direction of hair growth to remove loose fur and provide a massage effect.

4. Manage Their Diet

Choose high-quality dog food to ensure your Shiba Inu receives enough protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Adjust the feeding amount according to your Shiba Inu's age, weight, and activity level. Be aware that some Shiba Inus may have food allergies to ingredients like chicken, beef, or grains. If you notice allergic symptoms such as itchy skin, vomiting, or diarrhea, change their food immediately or consult a veterinarian.

Conclusion

Raising a Shiba Inu can indeed be more challenging than with some other dog breeds. They are independent and stubborn and require more exercise and care. It's important to be mentally prepared before deciding to own one. However, if you're willing to invest time and patience, and provide enough training and companionship, a Shiba Inu can also build a long-lasting and joyful relationship with its owner.

Editor's Note: The accuracy of the answers provided by the experts in this column may vary depending on each pet's individual condition, breed, and environment. For some pet owners, the column's answers may be limited. If you notice that your furry friend's condition is unique, please consult a professional pet trainer or veterinarian for further understanding.