Did you know that Shiba Inu’s were originally bred for hunting small and medium-sized game in the rugged mountains of Japan? Today, their fiery spirit, quick wit, and strong-willed independence have made them popular pets around the globe. But does this mean that a Shiba Inu can be a good guard dog as well?
Well, let’s dive deep into this question!
At first glance, the Shiba Inu, with their compact, muscular frame and plush, thick coat, radiates a sense of natural fearlessness and alertness. Their sharp eyes take in their surroundings with a swift and comprehensive understanding that can often leave you startled. This vigilance is one of the primary reasons why many might think they will make a perfect guard dog.
Like a true samurai, Shiba Inus fittingly have a dynamic temperament to match their captivating looks. They are known for their ‘spirited boldness’ – a dignified quality that has often been likened to the fiery nature of a terrier. So, if you’re wondering whether a Shiba Inu will bark and alert you when a stranger approaches your house, you’d likely get a loud “yes” in response. Shiba Inus are quite particular about their territory and people, and they do not hesitate to voice their discomfort via their unique, high-pitched ‘Shiba Scream’ or a series of barks.
As far as bravery goes, Shiba Inus have it in spades. They have a natural instinct to stand their ground and protect their family. Couple this with their notorious stubborn and independent streak that ensures they are not easily intimidated, and it seems like you have a perfect guard dog, right?
Well, not so fast.
While the Shiba Inu’s bravery and alertness are admirable, they’re quite different from breeds specifically trained for guard or protection work, such as German Shepherds or Rottweilers. These dogs have been bred over generations for certain traits – physical strength, bite force, courage and a keen instinct to protect their pack. Some breeds such as the Belgian Malinois even have a strong ‘defense drive’ – the desire to protect themselves and their pack from harm.
On the other hand, a Shiba Inu does not have the physical prowess or the defense drive of these typical guard dog breeds. Sure, they’ll alert you of a stranger at the door, but if the said stranger managed to get inside, your Shiba is more likely to retreat than engage in a physical confrontation. To put it simply, while Shiba Inus excel at being watchdogs due to their alertness, they are less effective as guard dogs because, when push comes to shove, they might prefer a hasty retreat rather than a head-on confrontation.
Furthermore, Shiba Inus have a strong prey drive, a trait that dates back to their hunting ancestry. This means they are more likely to chase a squirrel in your backyard than deter any intruders. Plus, their independent and headstrong nature can make them a handful to train. They’re quick to pick up commands but are equally quick to disregard them if they don’t see the point.
That being said, is it entirely impossible for a Shiba Inu to be a guard dog? Not necessarily. Training a Shiba Inu to be a guard dog would likely take more time, patience, and expertise than training more typical guard dog breeds. The key lies in frequent and consistent socialization and obedience training from a young age.
But the truth remains that if you’re looking for a dog that not only alerts you of strangers but also physically protects you and your property, there are other breeds more suited to this role.
Instead, the Shiba Inu brings other wonderful qualities to the table. They’re incredibly loyal and affectionate with their family, albeit often in their slightly aloof way. Their intelligence and cunning make them both entertaining and challenging pets. They are clean dogs with minimal doggy odor and are often compared to cats for their self-grooming habits. These qualities along with their compact size make them perfect for both apartment living as well as life in the countryside.
In conclusion, while the Shiba Inu may not make a perfect traditional guard dog in terms of physical confrontation, their alertness, loyalty, and courage make them an excellent watchdog who will not hesitate to alert you of any intruders. It is these qualities, along with their unique personality and charm, that have endeared them to many, making Shiba Inus one of the most popular breeds worldwide. So if you’re looking for an exceptional companion that keeps a vigilant eye on your surroundings, a Shiba Inu could be the perfect choice for you!
And who knows, their fiery spirit and unique ‘Shiba scream’ might give potential intruders a reason to think twice before meddling with your home!
