How to Train a Shiba Inu to Come When Called: Recall Training Guide

How to Train a Shiba Inu to Come When Called: Mastering Shiba Inu Puppy Recall

Recall – getting your dog to reliably come when called – is one of the most important commands for any dog, and especially crucial for Shiba Inus due to their independent nature and prey drive. If you’re wondering “How to train a Shiba Inu to come when called?”, it requires patience, consistency, and understanding the best methods for this breed. Effective Shiba Inu puppy recall training can be achieved with the right approach.

Why Recall Can Be Challenging with Shiba Inus

• Independence and “Selective Hearing”: As mentioned before, Shiba Inus are independent thinkers and can exhibit “selective hearing.” They might choose to ignore you if something else is more interesting. This is a key aspect of understanding Shiba Inu puppy behavior.
• Strong Prey Drive: Their hunting instincts are strong. If a Shiba Inu puppy spots prey (squirrel, bird, etc.), their urge to chase can easily override their recall training, especially in the early stages.
• Motivation is Key: Shiba Inus are not always motivated by pleasing their owners alone. You need to find high-value rewards that truly motivate them to come when called. This is central to the best way to train a Shiba Inu puppy.
• Potential for Stubbornness: If a Shiba Inu puppy decides they don’t want to come, they can be quite stubborn and resistant, testing your patience. Remember Shiba Inu puppy training challenges are breed-specific.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shiba Inu Puppy Recall Training

Phase 1: Building a Positive Association (Indoors)

1. Choose a Recall Word: Select a clear and consistent recall word like “Come,” “Here,” or “Shiba Come.” Keep it short and positive.
2. Start Indoors, Low Distraction: Begin training in a quiet room with minimal distractions.
3. Say the Recall Word: Say your chosen recall word in a happy, enthusiastic tone.
4. Reward Immediately: As soon as your puppy starts to come towards you (even if it’s just a step), reward them immediately with a high-value treat and enthusiastic praise. Timing is crucial.
5. Repeat Frequently: Practice recall frequently in short sessions (5-10 repetitions, several times a day).
6. Increase Distance: Gradually increase the distance you call your puppy from within the room.
7. Add Movement: Start calling your puppy when they are moving around the room, not just when they are stationary.

Phase 2: Practicing in a Controlled Outdoor Space (Fenced Yard or Long Leash)

1. Move to a Safe, Enclosed Area: Once your puppy is reliably coming indoors, move training to a securely fenced yard or use a long leash in an open area.
2. Repeat Phase 1 Steps Outdoors: Repeat the same steps as Phase 1 in the new outdoor environment. There will be more distractions, so be patient.
3. Practice at Different Times of Day: Train recall at different times of day and in varying weather conditions to generalize the command.
4. Introduce Gentle Distractions (Gradually): Slowly introduce mild distractions, like toys or family members moving around, while practicing recall.

Phase 3: Increasing Distractions and Proofing Recall

1. Train in More Distracting Environments: Gradually move training to areas with more distractions, such as parks (on leash), quieter streets, or open fields (on long leash initially).
2. Practice with Real-Life Distractions: Train recall when there are real-life distractions present, like other dogs (at a distance), people walking by, or interesting smells.
3. “Proof” Recall: “Proofing” means testing recall in a variety of situations and environments to ensure it’s reliable even under pressure. This takes time and consistent practice.
4. Use High-Value Rewards Consistently: Continue to use high-value rewards for successful recalls, even as your puppy becomes more trained. This reinforces the positive association with coming when called.

Breed-Specific Tips for Shiba Inu Recall Training

• Motivation is Paramount: Find the most motivating rewards for your Shiba Inu puppy. This is often high-value food treats, but it could also be a specific toy or a game they love. Use these special rewards only for recall training to make it extra enticing.
• Keep it Fun and Engaging: Shiba Inus can get bored easily. Keep recall training sessions fun, varied, and engaging. Use an enthusiastic tone of voice and make it a positive game.
• Short, Frequent Sessions: Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and practice frequently throughout the day, rather than long, drawn-out sessions.
• Be Patient and Persistent: Shiba Inu recall training can take time and patience. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Stay consistent and positive, and celebrate small victories.
• Use Body Language and Enthusiasm: Use open and inviting body language when calling your puppy. Crouch down, clap your hands, and use an excited, happy tone of voice to encourage them to come.
• Practice “Emergency Recall”: Train a super-high-value recall cue (like a whistle or a specific word used only in emergencies) for situations where you absolutely must get your puppy to come back immediately, no matter what.
• Consider a Long Line for Safety: Even with good recall, consider using a long line in open areas, especially when starting out or in unfamiliar places, to provide a safety net. Think about if you can let your Shiba Inu off leash and the role of recall.

Troubleshooting Recall Challenges

• Puppy is Slow to Come: Make your rewards even more enticing. Increase your enthusiasm and body language. Go back to practicing in a less distracting environment if needed.
• Puppy Comes Partway, Then Stops: Make coming all the way to you more rewarding. Take a step back as they approach to encourage them to come closer. Reward them only when they come all the way to you.
• Puppy Only Comes Sometimes: Inconsistency is often the culprit. Ensure you are practicing regularly, using high-value rewards, and gradually increasing distractions. Rule out any underlying Shiba Inu puppy anxiety that might be interfering with training.

In Conclusion Reliable Recall is Achievable with Dedication

Training a Shiba Inu puppy to come when called reliably takes time, patience, and a breed-specific approach. By using positive reinforcement, being consistent, and understanding the Shiba Inu temperament, you can achieve a strong recall and enjoy greater freedom and safety with your Shiba Inu companion.

What recall training techniques have you found most successful with your Shiba Inu puppy? Share your tips in the comments below!