Sammy is an independent, active, and sometimes stubborn Shiba Inu. Sammy's owners would like to find an activity for him that is complementary to his natural abilities, and to give him a physical and mental challenge to engage in. Shiba Inus were originally working dogs, not just pretty house pets. Engaging your dog in any task that engages his natural abilities and skills is fun for your dog!
The Shiba Inu was originally a hunting dog, used to hunt mostly small game in the dense forests and bush of Japan. Your Shiba Inu has a keenly developed prey drive and likes to go after smaller critters. With a good nose for the job, he is able to follow a scent trail to locate game, and is persistent and courageous, willing to go over, under, and through thick brush to get his quarry. Practicing these skills and adding some commands so they can be directed will make him a useful hunting companion, and allow your Shiba Inu to bond with you.
Remember to be patient with your Shiba as they can be stubborn and independent and if you rush or push them when training, they are apt to show aggression or withdraw, making subsequent training more difficult. You can use food and game scent to train your Shiba to use his nose and follow scent trails. Toys and treats make good positive reinforcement to 'catch' desired hunting behaviors and reward them. Because Shibas tend to be independent, you may want to use a GPS collar when working off-leash in wilderness areas, in case you become separated from your dog.
hi
Hello Breann, How can I help you? Did you have a question about training your dog? Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden
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