“Though she be but little, she is fierce.” That’s a famous quote from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream—but it could just as easily be a quote about the Shiba Inu.
Shiba Inus aren’t big in stature, but they’re certainly big in personality. These pups are intelligent, energetic, and independent—and while they can have a bit of a stubborn streak, they’re also extremely loving and loyal to their humans.
If you’re the proud parent of a Shiba Inu, it’s your job to do everything you can to make sure your four-legged friend stays happy and healthy. And a major part of that equation? Making sure your Shiba Inu has the toys they need to thrive.
But when it comes to Shiba Inus, not just any toy will do. The perfect toy for a Lhasa Apso, a Jack Russell Terrier, or a Great Dane might not be the best fit for the wise (and active!) Shiba Inu.
So what are the best toys for Shiba Inus? What kinds of toys should you be on the lookout for? And what are the must-have toys you should add to your collection to make sure your Shiba Inu is happy and engaged during playtime?
Choosing the best toys for Shiba Inu dogs
In order to choose the best toys for your Shiba Inu (or for any dog, for that matter), you need a strategy. The best toys for your pup are the ones that speak to his natural disposition, engage his mind, and help them get the exercise they need to stay happy, healthy, and content.
So, what does that mean for Shiba Inu dogs? What are the most important characteristics you should consider when shopping for the best toys for Shiba Inu dogs?
First off—Shiba Inus have a whole lot of energy. If your Shiba Inu doesn’t get enough exercise, all that pent up energy can translate into a host of negative behaviors (like aggression, separation anxiety, and general mischief). Toys that allow your pup to play and exercise at the same time are the perfect way to keep them active.
Shiba Inus are also incredibly smart. So just as like it’s important to get your pup toys that keep his body active, you’ll also want to throw in a few toys that keep his brain active as well!
Lastly, because Shiba Inus have so much energy to work off—both mental and physical—you want to make sure any toys you get them can keep them engaged for long periods of time. Shiba Inus aren’t the kind of dogs who can be satisfied with five minutes of play!
The Best Toys For Shiba Inu Dogs
Ok, so now that you know what factors to consider when choosing toys for your Shiba Inu, let’s talk about how to play to those factors and pick the best toys for Shiba Inu dogs.
Fetch Toys
Like we mentioned earlier, Shiba Inus need a lot of exercise. And a great way to make sure your pup gets the exercise they need? Fetch Toys.
Fetch toys are great for Shiba Inus because fetch gives them the exercise they need to stay healthy, happy, and content. Playing fetch on a regular basis will help your Shiba Inu run off any excess energy—which will make them a happier, better-behaved dog.
One thing that’s important to remember when playing fetch with your Shiba Inu? Make sure your play area is completely fenced in. Shiba Inus have a tendency to run off and chase cats or other dogs—so when you play fetch, make sure you’re doing it safely.
Thinker Toys
Again, Shibu Inus are highly intelligent. If you don’t find ways to engage their brain, they’ll find other outlets for their intelligence—and they’ll probably be more destructive than you’d like!
Thinker Toys are a great way to engage your dog’s mind. Think of them like puzzles for dogs; your Shiba Inu will have to use their intelligence to solve the puzzle—and when they finally crack the code, they’ll be rewarded with a yummy treat!
Spiky Ball Core Toys
Because Shiba Inus have so much energy (both mental and physical), they need their toys to keep them entertained for long stretches of time. Spiky Ball Core Toys offer hours of entertainment for your pup. First, they get to play with (and rip apart!) a plush toy. Then, once they’ve gotten through the plush toy, there’s an entirely new toy waiting in the center—a spiky ball core—that will keep the fun moving right along.
Get The Best Toys For Shiba Inus With BARKBOX!
Now that you know the best toys for Shiba Inu dogs, you want to make sure your dog has all the right toys in his collection. And the best way to do that? BarkBox.
With BarkBox, you’ll get a carefully curated selection of toys, treats, and chews delivered straight to your door each month. Your Shiba Inu will have so much to keep them entertained, they won’t know where to start!
Featured image via Romain Brami/Flickr
