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Step 1
Leash train your Shiba early. Since Shibas were originally bred to be hunting dogs, they still have the instinct to go after small animals. If you're out walking your Shiba and he sees a cat, he's likely to dart after it and if he's not on a leash, he can easily get hit by a car because the driver can't see him due to his small size.
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Step 2
Provide plenty of activities for the dog. To care for a Shiba, you must keep him mentally stimulated. Shibas like to run and play with other animals as well as humans.
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Step 3
Install a 6-foot fence to contain your Shiba when he goes outside. These dogs can jump very high, considering their small stature, and some can even climb. This is especially important if you have an intact male.
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Step 4
Give your Shiba Inu plenty to chew on. Chewing is a natural activity for dogs, so make sure he knows what he can and can't sink his teeth into.
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Step 5
Socialize your dog at a young age. Since these are hunting dogs, sometimes they can get snippy around small children, so it's important for your dog to be around as many types of people as possible. Always supervise your dog when he's around strangers for the first time, especially young children. This also applies to other pets that you introduce into the household after you get the Shiba.
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Step 6
Understand that these dogs learn very quickly. Anything you expose it to and any behavior you allow it to perform, she will likely repeat, so watch it.
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Step 7
Groom your Shiba Inu regularly. They normally "blow coat" twice a year, but depending on your climate, they may just shed throughout the year. If you brush your Shiba on a regular basis, you can keep the hair floating around your house to a minimum.
