Shiba Inu dogs are an ancient breed hailing from Japan with roots that go back to about 7000 B.C. The breed has become increasingly popular in the Western world thanks to its fox-like, cute appearance

They also have another trait that any Shiba owner will know too well: the famous Shiba scream. While other dogs might bark, a Shiba is more likely to give out high pitched “screams”.

Some feel that because Shibas are a primitive breed, they have a close genetic relationship to wolves, and their scream is a form of a Wolf howl.

A Shiba Inu will use their scream to express the fact they are in pain, anxious or, more generally, displeased. For example, Shibas don’t tend to enjoy being handled as much as other breeds, so sometimes any interactions with vets or having their nails trimmed will lead to loud screams of protest. Good levels of socialization as a puppy will mitigate this behaviour, however.

Shibas are quite independently minded, so if they are displeased, they’ll let out smalls screams of displeasure to let you know. It is this temperament that has led some to label Shibas as the “drama queen” among dog breeds.

Other common triggers for Shiba screams include anything from being put in their crate, to the vacuuming to the phone ringing. Some Shibas will start screaming the minute they put their feet in the slushy snow!

While perhaps endearing at first, excessive, high-pitched screaming can grate on your nerves. Shibas will scream when they are distressed. Therefore, you can reduce their tendency to scream by slowly customizing them to activities such as getting their nails clipped, visiting the vet or bathing. Via positive reinforcement after and during each session in the form of treats, you can acclimatize them to these scenarios.

Puppies will often scream continuously when you first receive them. The reason is that they have been separated from the litter and they are looking to be reunited. Over time, you can use positive reinforcement in the form of treats for good behaviour and negative punishment by removing your attention while acting out will help reduce unwanted screaming.

And to finish, here’s a prime example of the Shiba Scream in action:

This guest post was written by Thomas Carney, who writes about his favourite breed, Shiba Inu, on ShibaInuHQ.com