Shiba Inu Puppy Training Manual

Breed profile

Training group

Sled and spitz dogs

Origin

The Shiba Inu originated in Japan as a mountain hunting dog for birds and small animals.

Shoulder height

Approximately 35–41 cm

Weight

Approximately 7–11 kg

Coat

Harsh, straight outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat

Coat care

Seasonal coat shedding needs more frequent, short cooperative brushing sessions. Introduce coat separation, paw checks and dryer sound in tiny voluntary steps, pausing before vocal or avoidance behaviour escalates.

Drive keywords

Independent decision-making · Chase · Small-animal hunting · Environmental vigilance

Handling practice

During seasonal coat shedding, use frequent but very short sessions for brushing, coat separation and dryer sound, with a non-slip surface and a clear option to pause or leave. · During the 8–16 week window, arrange people with varied appearances, movement and voices at a distance where the puppy can eat, leave and recover. Do not require approach, touch or greeting.

General reference range only; individual dogs vary considerably.