Because there are a lot of Shiba/Akita ao people here, could they tell me what is so special about a Shiba/Akita ao? Are they intelligent, easy to train ( and what kind of training) and used for any type of sport?
Shibas are incredibly, almost scary, intelligent - like the way a cat is intelligent.
Saying they are easy to train doesn't quite roll off the tongue because they are not overly willing to please, but are open to suggestion when a goooood treat is offered as a reward. I would say that a shiba inu is tailor made to flush out bushes of birds and smaller prey, they'd be excellent rabbit and squirrel hunters if you could trust them off leash. I imagine that they excel in Agility as well, we tried with our agile male but he was more afraid of the equipment than anything. When we have more room we'll try again. And have you ever heard of the Earth Dog trials? Mostly small terriers do it, but I think my ol' gal Hachi would have been great at that too. Mostly though, shibas excel at causing a ruckus and sleeping. They also are zen masters at teaching patience, understanding and the value of life vs. materialism.
But what is so special about the shiba? Having to work hard to get their attention and affection, having to prove yourself a worthy handler and caretaker and being able to enjoy living the cutest little fuzzbutts on the planet.
Comments
Shibas are incredibly, almost scary, intelligent - like the way a cat is intelligent.
Saying they are easy to train doesn't quite roll off the tongue because they are not overly willing to please, but are open to suggestion when a goooood treat is offered as a reward.
I would say that a shiba inu is tailor made to flush out bushes of birds and smaller prey, they'd be excellent rabbit and squirrel hunters if you could trust them off leash.
I imagine that they excel in Agility as well, we tried with our agile male but he was more afraid of the equipment than anything. When we have more room we'll try again. And have you ever heard of the Earth Dog trials? Mostly small terriers do it, but I think my ol' gal Hachi would have been great at that too. Mostly though, shibas excel at causing a ruckus and sleeping. They also are zen masters at teaching patience, understanding and the value of life vs. materialism.
But what is so special about the shiba? Having to work hard to get their attention and affection, having to prove yourself a worthy handler and caretaker and being able to enjoy living the cutest little fuzzbutts on the planet.
- Some people like a challenge: these breeds mos def supply plenty of challenge.
- Some people are drawn to the "wolf" look: Most of the Nihonken can give you that look.
- Some people really like cute dogs: There is no shortage of cuteness when you live with any of the Nihonken.
- A lot of people want loyalty w/o the constant need for attention found in many breeds: Most Nihonken will love you from afar.
I could go on and on, but I think what you may be asking is what do Nihonken excel at... There is a good thread on that exact topic. Check this out.
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