Barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, but when it becomes excessive, it can be a real challenge to manage. In this article, we will explore why Shiba Inus bark so much, how to address this behavior, and provide specific solutions tailored to common situations where Shibas tend to get vocal.

Why Shiba Inus Bark So Much + How to Stop

The Nature of Shiba Inus

Shiba Inus are known for their spirited and confident nature. These little buddies are incredibly alert and always keen to interact with their surroundings. Their barking often stems from their inherent need to protect their territory and alert you to anything they perceive as unusual.

Because Shiba Inus are intelligent and independent, they tend to be more vocal when they feel bored or under-stimulated.

The “Shiba Scream”

One distinctive feature of Shiba Inus is their infamous “Shiba scream.” This high-pitched vocalization can sometimes be mistaken for barking, but it is actually a unique way Shiba Inus express extreme emotions, whether it’s excitement, distress, or frustration. Understanding this breed-specific trait can help differentiate between normal barking and their unique vocalizations.

How to Stop Shiba Inus Barking in 5 Steps

If you’re finding it a challenge to manage your Shiba Inu’s barking, this 5-step plan will help you:

1. Identify the Trigger: Pay close attention to when your Shiba starts barking and note the potential triggers. Is it another animal, a strange noise, or something else?
2. Provide Adequate Exercise: Shiba Inus need a lot of physical activity to keep them from getting bored. Ensure your Shiba gets plenty of walks, play sessions, and mental exercises to tire them out.
3. Use the Quiet Command: When your Shiba starts barking, calmly say “Quiet” in a firm but relaxed tone. Never yell, as this can make them bark more. Wait for even a brief pause in the barking, then immediately reward with a treat and calm praise so they connect silence with something positive. If your Shiba still doesn’t stop, show them the treat to capture their attention, and reward as soon as they pause. Practice this in short, consistent sessions until they begin responding to the command even without seeing the treat.
4. Encourage Calm Behavior: Reward your Shiba with treats and praise when they are calm and not barking. This positive reinforcement can help discourage unnecessary barking.
5. Desensitize to Triggers: Gradually expose your Shiba to the things that trigger their barking while rewarding them for staying quiet. This can help them become less reactive over time.

These steps will help reduce your Shiba’s barking, but it’s important to remember this behavior is often a sign of deeper issues such as anxiety, boredom, or territorial instincts.

And until those root issues are addressed directly, they’ll continue to cause you trouble in other areas.

“Okay, so how do I do that then?”

By developing your dog’s intelligence, that’s how! When they get the mental stimulation they desperately need in a loving, fun, and instructional way, all their behavioral problems start to disappear fast.

To make this happen, you’ll play 21 “brain” games created by Adrienne, a CPDT-KA certified dog trainer whose work has been featured in USA Today and Every Dog magazine. See her amazing results in this video with a dog named Maggie (scroll down).

Adrienne’s training games will end bad behavior while also teaching your dog to sit, lie down, stay, heel, drop, and walk calmly by your side. It’s simple, and it will be an absolute blast for you both. She explains exactly how her system works here, go take a look!

My Shiba Inu Barks…

When Left Alone

Shiba Inus can become quite anxious when left alone, leading to excessive barking. This separation anxiety is common among many breeds, but Shibas tend to vocalize their distress loudly. Providing puzzle toys and creating a calm, safe space can help reduce their anxiety. Gradually increase the time you’re away to help them get used to being alone.

At Other Dogs on Walks

Shiba Inus are known for being highly alert and sometimes reactive to other dogs. They may bark to assert dominance or out of excitement. Training and socialization are key to managing this behavior. Using positive reinforcement when they remain calm around other dogs can help reduce reactive barking.

At Night

Nighttime barking in Shiba Inus can often be attributed to boredom or leftover energy from the day. Ensure your Shiba gets plenty of exercise and stimulation during the day to help them settle down at night. Providing a comfortable sleeping area away from distractions can also help curb nighttime barking.

At Strangers

Shiba Inus are naturally wary of strangers, often resorting to barking as a protective measure. Early socialization and positive experiences with new people can help reduce this wariness. Teach your Shiba to focus on you and reward them for calm behavior when strangers are around.

At Noises

Shiba Inus have a keen sense of hearing and can bark at unfamiliar or sudden noises. If this is a frequent issue, try to identify the specific noises that trigger their barking and desensitize them gradually. Calming music or white noise machines can also help mask unsettling sounds.

Problem & Solution: Fixing Common Training Issues

Your Shiba Inu Doesn’t Respond to Commands

One common issue with Shiba Inus is their independent nature, which can make training a bit more challenging. Consistency and patience are key.

1. Use high-value training treats that your Shiba finds irresistible.
2. Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain your Shiba’s interest.
3. Practice commands in various environments to generalize the behavior.
4. Use a clicker or a marker word like “Yes” to reinforce positive behavior immediately.
5. Gradually increase the difficulty by adding distractions as your Shiba becomes more proficient.

Your Shiba Inu is Stubborn

Shiba Inus are known for their stubborn streak. Training them requires a firm yet gentle approach. Establish yourself as the consistent leader by setting clear rules and boundaries. Positive reinforcement will always work better than harsh corrections. Encourage good behavior with treats, praise, and playtime.

Your Shiba Inu Barks for Attention

Shiba Inus are smart and quickly learn that barking gets your attention. To combat this, ignore the barking and only give attention when they are calm and quiet. Avoid scolding, as this can actually reinforce the behavior. Instead, reward them for being quiet and provide interactive toys to keep them occupied.

FAQ: Shiba Inu Barking

Is Barking Common in Shiba Inus?

Yes, barking is quite common in Shiba Inus due to their alert nature. They are known to be quite vocal, particularly when they sense something unusual in their environment. Understanding their triggers and providing adequate mental and physical stimulation can help manage this behavior.

Do Shiba Inus Bark More Than Other Breeds?

While it’s hard to generalize, Shiba Inus can be more vocal than some breeds due to their territorial and protective instincts. However, with proper training and socialization, excessive barking can be minimized.

How Can I Reduce My Shiba Inu’s Barking?

Consistent training, sufficient exercise, and mental stimulation are key to reducing barking. Using the “Quiet” command, engaging in brain games, and rewarding calm behavior are effective strategies for managing a Shiba Inu’s vocal tendencies.

Is the Shiba Scream the Same as Barking?

No, the Shiba scream is a unique vocalization distinct from barking. It is a high-pitched sound that Shiba Inus use to express extreme emotions. While it can be startling, it is not the same as their regular barking and usually indicates a heightened state of emotion.

Conclusion

Managing your Shiba Inu’s barking can be a challenge, but with patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can reduce unwanted vocalizations. Remember to pay attention to the underlying causes and address them directly for long-term success.

P.S. Don’t forget to pin this so you can refer back to the 5 steps!