iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.
5 Vital Strategies to Help Your Shiba Inu with Loose Leash Walking
Shiba Inus are an active and independent breed, which can make leash training a challenge. Their curious nature can cause them to pull on leash in order to explore their surroundings. This can be frustrating for both you and your dog, and can even lead to safety concerns. Luckily, there are several strategies you can use to help your Shiba Inu learn to walk calmly on a leash. By understanding your dog’s behavior and needs, you can implement effective training techniques that will result in a more enjoyable walking experience for both you and your furry friend.
1. Start with Basic Training for Your Shiba Inu
“But wait,” you say. “I just want my Shiba Inu to stop pulling on the leash! Do I really need ‘basic training’ too?”
The answer is: it depends. While its possible to train your Shiba Inu to stop pulling on the leash without training other commands, all training becomes easier if you start with a solid foundation, such as training your Shiba Inu basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” (as an aside, if you’re looking for a solid overall training program, we really like the K9 Training Institute’s program or SpiritDog’s program, both of which include modules on leash pulling)
Before heading out for a walk, spend some time training your dog inside your home or in your yard. Use positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and affection to reward your dog for good behavior. This will help your dog to associate good behavior with positive rewards.
2. Buy a No-Pull Harness for Your Shiba Inu
A no-pull harness is an excellent tool for training your Shiba Inu to stop leash pulling. Unlike a traditional collar or harness, a no-pull harness is designed to discourage your dog from pulling by gently applying pressure to their chest. When your dog starts to pull, the harness will tighten, and your dog will feel a slight discomfort that will discourage them from pulling. Using a no-pull harness can be a safe and effective way to train your Shiba Inu to walk calmly on a leash.
We love the Rabbitgoo brand no-pull harness on Amazon, which has almost 150,000 reviews.
3. Be Consistent: When Your Shiba Inu Starts Pulling, STOP Walking
Consistency is key when training your Shiba Inu to loose leash walk. It’s essential to use the same techniques every time you take your dog for a walk. For example, if your dog starts to pull, stop walking and wait for your dog to calm down before continuing. Be patient and persistent, and your dog will eventually learn that pulling won’t get them where they want to go.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement like Training Treats
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective training techniques for stopping leash pulling. When your Shiba Inu walks calmly by your side, reward them with treats, praise, and affection. This will help your dog to associate good behavior with positive rewards, making them more likely to repeat that behavior in the future. Avoid punishing your dog for pulling, as this can make the problem worse by increasing their anxiety and frustration.
Our test pups LOVE these bacon flavored Pet Botanics training treats. They are small enough size that you can give a lot of them, and not overdo calories.
We’d also recommend a handy training treats pouch you can wear on your belt during walks.
5. Try an Online Dog Training Course for Your Shiba Inu
If you’re struggling to teach your Shiba Inu loose leash walking, it may be time to seek professional help through and online dog training course. A professional dog trainer can provide you with personalized advice and techniques to address your specific issues. They can help you to identify the root cause of your dog’s pulling and provide you with effective solutions to correct the behavior. With the help of a professional trainer, you can teach your Shiba Inu to walk calmly on a leash, making walks more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
Our 2 Favorite Online Training Programs for Shiba Inu Leash Pulling
- SpiritDog makes an excellent and affordable training course called “Loose Leash Walking” that’s an excellent resource for Shiba Inu owners. The course promises to teach your Shiba Inu to stop pulling in 10 minutes a day. You can also get feedback from real, professional dog trainers.
- K9 Training Institute Makes an Excellent, Well Rounded Dog “Masterclass” that includes modules on loose leash walking. While it’s a bit pricier than SpiritDog, it offers a solid foundation and solutions to nearly any behavior challenge you might face. The course uses the same material that professionals use to train service dogs, so the quality of the material is top notch.
In conclusion, training your Shiba Inu to stop pulling on the leash can be a challenging task, but it is crucial for both the dog’s safety and your own. By understanding the reasons behind your dog’s pulling behavior and implementing the appropriate training techniques, you can teach your Shiba Inu to walk politely on a leash. It is essential to remain patient and consistent in your training efforts, rewarding good behavior and avoiding punishment or negative reinforcement. Remember that every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another, so be prepared to adapt your approach and find the best methods that work for your Shiba Inu.
Toledo, United States.
