How to Potty Train a Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a small dog breed native to Japan where it was used for hunting in dense mountain vegetation. The American Kennel Club accepted the breed in the non-sporting group in 1992. These dogs stand about 15 inches tall and weigh about 20 pounds. The Shiba Inu is very smart and can be potty trained quickly, even though the dog can be stubborn about other parts of training.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog crate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the dog in a crate when it is unsupervised. This includes times when you are gone, asleep or in a different room.

    • 2

      Choose a place in the yard where you want the dog to urinate.

    • 3

      Take the Shiba Inu outside to the chosen spot when the dog wakes from a nap, after it has eaten and after playing. Tell the dog, "Go potty." When the dog urinates or has a bowel movement in the correct spot, praise it and reward it with a small dog treat. Shiba Inu dogs are smart and will learn quickly with commands, praise and a reward.

    • 4

      Place the dog back in the crate unless you plan to play with it or supervise it while it is loose in the house. If the dog starts sniffing around or turning in circles, take it outside and repeat Step 3.

    • 5

      Continue this training, but allow the dog to stay out of the crate a little longer each day. According to the National Shiba Club of America, Shiba Inus are smart and will eventually prefer to go outside to urinate rather than soil the house or the crate.

    • 6

      Once the dog starts going to the door to indicate that it needs to urinate, allow the dog to remain out of the crate. During the night and when you are out, the dog should remain in the crate so it doesn't cause damage to the house. After more training and as the dog enters adulthood, it will be possible for the dog to live without the crate. However, it may consider the crate its den and prefer to sleep in it. Always leave the crate door open if this is the case.