How To Effectively Train A Stubborn Shiba Inu Basic Commands Guide

Training a Shiba Inu can be one of the most rewarding experiences for a dog owner—if you approach it with the right mindset. Known for their fox-like appearance, independence, and sharp intelligence, Shibas are also notoriously stubborn. Their strong-willed nature often leaves owners frustrated when traditional training methods fail. But with patience, consistency, and an understanding of their unique psychology, even the most resistant Shiba can learn essential commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “heel.” This guide breaks down effective, science-backed strategies tailored specifically to the Shiba Inu temperament.

Understanding the Shiba Inu Mindset

Before diving into training techniques, it’s crucial to understand what makes a Shiba Inu tick. Originating from Japan as a hunting breed, Shibas were bred to work independently in rugged terrain. Unlike breeds that thrive on constant human approval—such as Golden Retrievers or Border Collies—Shibas value autonomy. They assess situations logically and often decide whether a command is worth obeying based on personal interest.

This independence manifests as apparent \"stubbornness,\" but it's actually selective compliance. A Shiba isn’t being defiant out of malice; they’re weighing effort versus reward. If sitting doesn’t earn something valuable—like a treat, toy, or freedom—they may simply ignore the cue. Recognizing this cognitive process shifts your approach from frustration to strategy.

“Shibas aren’t disobedient—they’re negotiators. Your job is to make obedience more appealing than defiance.” — Dr. Karen Becker, Veterinary Behaviorist

Core Principles of Effective Shiba Training

To successfully train a stubborn Shiba, you must align your methods with their natural instincts. The following principles form the foundation of any successful program:

• Positive reinforcement only: Punishment-based training backfires with intelligent, sensitive dogs like Shibas. It damages trust and increases avoidance behaviors.
• High-value rewards: Standard kibble won’t cut it. Use freeze-dried liver, cheese, or favorite toys to create motivation.
• Brief, frequent sessions: Keep training under 5–7 minutes per session, multiple times daily. Shibas lose focus quickly if overstimulated.
• Consistency across all family members: Mixed signals confuse the dog. Everyone must use the same cues and consequences.
• Patience over pressure: Forcing compliance leads to shutdowns or escape attempts. Let the dog choose to participate.

Tip: Always end a training session on a positive note—even if it’s just rewarding your Shiba for making eye contact.

Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Basic Commands

Start with foundational commands that promote safety and control. Each step assumes prior bonding and minimal distractions. Choose a quiet indoor space for initial training.

1. “Sit” – Building the Foundation

1. Hold a high-value treat close to your Shiba’s nose.
2. Slowly move the treat upward so their head follows it, naturally causing their bottom to lower.
3. The moment their rear touches the floor, say “sit” clearly and immediately give the treat.
4. Repeat 5–7 times per session, 3x daily.
5. After five successful days, begin phasing out the lure while still using the verbal cue and hand signal (palm up).

Some Shibas will sit once but then walk away. If this happens, wait quietly. When they return, try again. Never chase or physically manipulate them into position—it creates resistance.

2. “Stay” – Developing Self-Control

Teach “stay” only after your Shiba reliably sits on command.

1. Ask your dog to sit.
2. Hold your palm toward them and say “stay” in a calm tone.
3. Wait two seconds, then release with “okay” and reward.
4. Gradually increase duration by one-second increments each day.
5. Once stable at 10 seconds, add small steps backward before releasing.

Escape attempts are common. If your Shiba breaks early, reset calmly—no scolding. Simply restart the count. Success builds slowly.

3. “Come” – Overcoming Selective Hearing

Recall is often the hardest command for Shibas due to their prey drive and independent streak. Never use “come” in punishment contexts (e.g., ending playtime). That conditions them to avoid the word.

1. Practice indoors first, with a lightweight leash attached for safety.
2. Crouch down, use an excited voice, and say “Fido, come!” (using their name adds clarity).
3. If they approach, reward generously—even if slow.
4. If unresponsive, gently tug the leash to guide movement, then reward instantly upon forward motion.
5. Increase distance gradually, always ensuring success before progressing.

Outside, use a long training line (15–30 feet) in a secure area. Never allow off-leash freedom until recall is 95% reliable across environments.

4. “Heel” – Walking Without Pulling

Shibas often pull on walks due to curiosity and energy. Heel training teaches them to walk beside you without tension.

1. Begin in a low-distraction hallway or yard.
2. Use a harness and keep the leash short enough to feel tension but not choke.
3. Start walking. The moment your Shiba surges ahead, stop immediately.
4. Wait for them to turn back or slacken the leash, then mark with “yes!” and reward.
5. Resume walking. Repeat this stop-start rhythm consistently.

Within days, many Shibas learn that pulling halts progress, while staying close keeps movement going. Add verbal cues like “let’s go” during forward motion.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even well-intentioned owners make errors that reinforce stubborn behavior. Below is a comparison table highlighting typical pitfalls and better alternatives.

Don’t	Do Instead
Repeating commands multiple times (“sit, sit, SIT!”)	Say the command once, then wait or guide gently
Punishing failed attempts	Reward partial progress and adjust difficulty
Training when the dog is tired or distracted	Choose alert, calm moments—preferably before meals
Using low-value treats (kibble)	Use premium rewards exclusive to training
Allowing inconsistent rules (e.g., sometimes allowing couch access)	Maintain clear boundaries every time

Inconsistency is the fastest way to erode training progress. Dogs don’t generalize well—what’s allowed once becomes expected always.

Real Example: Turning Around Kira the Stubborn Shiba

Kira, a two-year-old female Shiba, refused to come when called and would routinely ignore her owner during walks. Initial attempts included yelling and jerking the leash, which only made her freeze or run further when off-leash.

Her owner shifted tactics using positive reinforcement. She began calling Kira only during play sessions, followed immediately by a game of tug or a piece of chicken. Within two weeks, Kira started turning her head at the sound of her name. After four weeks of consistent practice with a long line in the backyard, Kira responded reliably 80% of the time—even near squirrels.

The key was reframing “come” as a predictor of good things, not loss of freedom. Today, Kira walks calmly on a loose leash and returns promptly when called, proving that even strong-willed Shibas can learn with the right approach.

Essential Training Checklist

Follow this checklist to ensure your training plan stays on track:

• ✅ Choose 1–2 high-value treats available only during training
• ✅ Schedule three 5-minute sessions daily (morning, afternoon, evening)
• ✅ Use a clicker or verbal marker (“yes!”) to pinpoint correct behavior
• ✅ Practice each command in 3 locations: living room, backyard, quiet street
• ✅ Record progress weekly—note successes and setbacks
• ✅ Involve all household members in consistency drills
• ✅ Avoid off-leash exposure until recall is mastered

Tip: Rotate treats weekly to prevent boredom. A Shiba may refuse liver after five days but jump for salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to train a stubborn Shiba Inu?

Basic commands can take 4–8 weeks with consistent daily practice. Full reliability in distracting environments may require 3–6 months. Progress varies based on age, prior experience, and handler consistency.

Can older Shibas learn new commands?

Absolutely. While puppies absorb training faster, adult and senior Shibas can learn at any age. Older dogs may take longer due to established habits, but their increased focus often compensates. Start with simple cues and build confidence gradually.

Why does my Shiba ignore me when other dogs are around?

Dogs enter a heightened state of arousal in social settings, reducing their ability to respond to cues. This is normal. To improve performance, practice commands in increasingly distracting environments, always setting the dog up for success. Use higher-value rewards during social exposures.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Training a stubborn Shiba Inu isn’t about dominance—it’s about diplomacy. These dogs respond not to force, but to persuasion, timing, and trust. By respecting their intelligence and working with their nature rather than against it, you’ll build a relationship rooted in mutual respect.

Success doesn’t come overnight. There will be days when your Shiba stares blankly at a treat as if contemplating philosophy instead of obedience. Those moments are part of the journey. Stay consistent, celebrate small wins, and remember: every repetition shapes behavior.

💬 Have a Shiba training story or tip? Share your experience below—your insight could help another frustrated owner find breakthrough success.