Introducing a new puppy to your current dog is often an exciting process, and many dogs will become fast friends and eas...
Read MoreAdopt Me
Shiba Inus are small dogs with big personalities and even bigger opinions. Their fox-like red coats and pointed looks make them attract compliments like magnets. They are confident, dramatic, and seriously hilarious. However, before you commit to raising one of these, you must know they have high exercise and training needs.
Luckily, Maryland has several dog-friendly parks and open spaces for a Shiba Inu to explore. The state’s mild seasons are great for their double-coated bodies. Just make sure you keep them on a leash at all times, because if their inner escape artist comes out to play, you’ll not be able to stop them.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to adopt a Shiba Inu in Maryland and train them to become family-friendly pets.
Shiba Inu Adoption in Maryland
Shiba Inus live and love on their own terms and aren’t big fans of other animals. They might not be the right choice for someone who prefers the peace and quiet of their home and is looking for a dog who’ll obey no matter what.
If you feel you can handle a Shiba, start looking for adoption centers in your region that cater to small breeds. There are a few ways to do so, like joining breed-specific Facebook groups for Marylanders, attending dog shows hosted by kennel clubs, or connecting with experienced owners. Your local vet might have some leads, too.
Once you find an organization, browse their website to read their policies and look for pictures of the available dogs. You’ll likely come across an adoption application form online, too. It’ll have questions about your daily schedule, home setup, and experience with spitz dogs. Fill and submit to join the pool of interested adopters.
After the staff reviews your application and finds you a suitable match, they’ll invite you for a quick meeting. Use this time to learn more about the breed, especially if it’ll be your first time with a dog. The staff might also request a virtual home tour to help you puppy-proof your space before taking a curious escape artist to it.
Finally, you can meet the dog. Observe how they behave with other dogs at the rescue to understand their social skills. Also, check for signs of poor health, like a dull coat, dirty ears, or patchy paw pads. If you’re satisfied with your choice, pay the fee and get ready to start your new life.
|
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shiba Inu in Maryland?Expect an adoption fee of $200 to $550 for a Shiba Inu in Maryland. Most rescues and shelters include basic vet care expenses in the fee, like vaccinations, microchipping, deworming, and neutering or spaying. Besides the adoption fee, you’ll need about $2,000 to $6,000 a year to cover a Shiba’s food, training, and healthcare. A crate or a puppy pen, feeding bowls, puzzle toys, a harness, and a leash are some essentials you’ll need to get before your zoomie zen master comes home. |
How Should I Train a Shiba Inu?Training a Shiba Inu needs a lot of patience and persuasion. They like doing things their way and excel at selective hearing. Your best option is to make your way seem more rewarding and fun than theirs. High-value treats, like chicken and cheese, will help you sail through this. Also, keep the training sessions short and engaging, because these smart dogs get distracted easily. You’ll also have to work on their social skills, especially if you don’t want your Shiba to act like a grumpy cat stuck in a dog’s body. Take them out for frequent walks, introduce them to new people in controlled settings, and help them make friends with fellow dogs. It might take a few months for them to warm up to strangers, so stay positive and patient. Shibas are spitz dogs. Chasing muskrats, rabbits, and squirrels is their second nature. This means they’ll tug the instant something moves. A no-pull harness can make things slightly manageable, but if it doesn’t, you can try Dog Academy’s Loose Leash Walking online course. |
|
Find the Right Shiba Inu in Maryland for You
Living with a Shiba Inu is like having a mischievous family member on paws with a curled-up tail and an “I’m too good for this” vibe. They’ll ignore you while they do their own thing one minute, and come sit next to you like you’re their entire world the next. However, once you become their favorite, they’ll surprise you with their dedication and foxy love.
