shiba inu reactivity/aggression

1371 Views 4 Replies 5 Participants Last post by DaySleepers, Feb 10, 2021

redfox

Discussion Starter · Feb 9, 2021

Has anyone had issues with shiba inu aggression/reactivity?

I have a shiba inu who will sometimes react (lunge/bark/jump/bite) to people holding things in their hands/suddenly walking into the room/loud noises. It's sometimes hard to predict. I think it could be fear aggression/reaction to being startled, but I'm not sure.

Has anyone else had issues like this? Has anything helped to overcome this?

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Deacon.dog

· #2 · Feb 9, 2021

What are you currently working on to help combat this?

If you have the funds, contact a dog trainer/behaviorist to help you.

Otherwise, I'd begin muzzle training your dog. Biting a human isn't good at all, try and prevent that. I suggest joining the groups "Muzzle up pup! the pro muzzle community" and "reactive dog support group" on FB, there, you can get several opinions from trainers, and people who are experianced to help you through the stuggles.

I have very little experiance working with hounds, I'm not sure how.. stubborn they can be. I'm sure other people can chime in and be more helpful than I am, but those facebook groups are a good start.

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Kensi

· #3 · Feb 9, 2021

We set up situations where she would experience those things, and keeping her on a leash, we'd try to redirect her attention to us and treat. (for instance one thing with her was people whose phones would ring, so we tried calling each other's phones and redirecting her attention. Management is key, as well.
But yeah, if it's getting out of control, try a muzzle, at least for a while.
It does sound like it is fear-related, so try to do as much "watch me" and desensitization as possible.
Don't yell at your dog or yank on his collar. This will add to the tension in the environment, making the issue worse.

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ClanWorgen

· #4 · Feb 10, 2021

Yes, honestly I haven't worked with a single Shiba who isn't somewhat aggressive but they all have their different triggers. They have a whole lot of attitude and can be very very stubborn.
Desensitizing by gradual exposure is what I would try with an issue like these.

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DaySleepers

· #5 · Feb 10, 2021

Is this happening to family members, people the dog is used to and comfortable around, and in places the dog is comfortable in? How often?

If this is a frequent problem and happening even with people the dog should be comfortable with and in spaces the dog should feel safe in, I'd say a behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist should be brought in. IMO a dog being stressed and unable to relax in their own home is also grounds for considering anxiety medication IF a professional confirms that this is fear based.

You may also want to look at your exercise and training routine, as a dog who isn't getting enough physical or mental stimulation is going to be more likely to be amped up, high strung, and overall rude. I like nose games for dogs prone to stress, because it's very naturally calming, confidence building, and mentally satisfying.

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