Do Shiba Inus Like To Cuddle? (5 Reasons Why Most Don’t!)

Today we’re talking about Shiba Inus and cuddles. Or lack there of!

If you’ve got a Shiba that isn’t all that receptive to your cuddles, you’re probably wondering why. It can be a little dishearteneing, I know, I’ve been there myself.

Do Shiba Inus like to snuggle up and get cozy?

The short answer is: not really. But why is that? Let’s dive into the 5 main reasons why most Shibas are not big on cuddling, and talk about ways to potentially change this!

5 Key Reasons Why Shibas Are Not That Cuddly

Let me first start by saying, YES, some Shibas are exceptionally cuddly and they love to snuggle up on the couch in the evenings.

But, if you have one of these Shibas, you’re one of few.

Most Shibas are not overly cuddly, and there are some legitimate reasons behind this. Let’s discuss them below.

1. Shibas Are Highly Independent

Shibas are like the cool kids in school. They like to do their own thing.

They are not always looking for attention. Many times, they are happy just exploring around or taking a nap on their own.

Think of it this way: some people like to be in a group, and some like to be alone.

Shibas usually like to be alone. So if you want a dog that will always stick by your side, a Shiba might not be the right fit.

2. Shibas Cuddle Only When They Want

You know how some people only hug when they feel like it? Well, Shibas are the same. They have their own moods and feelings.

Sometimes they might come to you for a quick snuggle. But most times, they won’t.

It’s not that they don’t love you.

They just like to cuddle on their own terms. It’s kinda like they’re saying, “I’ll come to you when I feel like it, okay?”

3. Your Shiba’s Age

Just like people, dogs change as they get older.

Young Shibas are often more playful and might be more open to cuddles. But as they grow up, they usually become more set in their ways.

Older Shibas are often less likely to cuddle.

They’ve got their habits and they stick to them. It’s not a bad thing, it’s just how they are.

4. The Way They Were Raised

Were they cuddled a lot as puppies? Or were they not handled much?

This can make a difference. If a Shiba was cuddled a lot when it was young, it might be more open to cuddles now.

But if it didn’t get much touchy-feely time, it might not be into cuddles.

Basically, how they were raised plays a role in how cuddly they are. It’s like if you grow up eating spicy food, you’re more likely to enjoy it as an adult.

5. Health Issues or Injuries

Last but not least, let’s talk health.

If a Shiba isn’t feeling well, it probably won’t want to cuddle. Just like when we’re sick, we don’t always want people around us.

If your Shiba is avoiding cuddles, it might be good to check if they’re okay.

Sometimes, avoiding touch can be a sign that something’s wrong.

Can You Make Your Shiba Inu More Cuddly?

So you’ve read about why Shibas aren’t big cuddlers. But what if you still want those snugly moments?

Good news: there are ways to increase the chances* of your Shiba being a cuddler, remember there’s no gaurantees.

Ultimately, you can’t force a dog to be more cuddly, in fact that would most likely backfire! But if you encourage more affection, along with positive reinforcement and treats, it could SLOWLY change an existing Shiba’s temperament (just a tad).

If you’ve got yourself a Shiba puppy, you have more of a chance in nurturing them into a cuddler than trying to change an adult.

1. Start Young

Puppies are like little sponges; they soak up everything! If your Shiba is still a pup, start cuddling now.

The more they get used to it, the more likely they’ll be cool with it as they grow up.

Remember, it’s easier to teach a young dog new tricks. Older dogs can learn too, but it might take longer.

2. Treats, Treats, Treats!

Who doesn’t love a good snack? Shibas are no different.

Try giving your Shiba a treat after a cuddle session. This way, they’ll think, “Hey, cuddles mean yummy food. I like this!”

Just be careful not to give too many treats. We don’t want chubby Shibas!

3. Make It a Calm Experience

Shibas like peace and quiet. If you want them to cuddle, make sure it’s in a calm place.

No loud noises or too much going on. This will help them feel safe and more willing to cuddle.

Think of it like this: would you want to hug someone in a loud, crowded place? Probably not.

4. Short and Sweet

Don’t push it. Start with short cuddle sessions.

Even a few seconds can be a win! Slowly, your Shiba might start to like it more and more.

It’s like dipping your toes in the water before diving in. Take it slow.

5. Check Their Mood

Remember, Shibas have their own feelings.

Sometimes they’re just not in the mood, and that’s okay. If your Shiba seems cranky or tired, maybe skip the cuddles for now.

Respect their space, and they’ll be more likely to come to you when they’re ready.

Are Shiba Inus Naturally Affectionate?

Okay, so we’ve talked a lot about cuddling, but what about overall affection?

Do Shiba Inus love their humans? The answer is yes, but in their own special way. Let’s talk about it.

Psst: 12 Signs Your Shiba Tells You They Love You

Not Your Typical Lovey-Dovey Dog

Shibas aren’t the type to jump on you and lick your face. They’re more reserved.

It’s like they have their own code of manners.

They’ll show love, but not in the ways you might expect.

Instead of wagging tails and wet kisses, you might get a calm sit beside you. Or a soft look in your direction. It’s subtle, but it’s still love.

Quality Time Over Cuddles

For a Shiba, just being around you can be a sign of affection.

They might not want to be in your lap, but they’ll be in the same room. Think of it as quality time.

Sitting quietly together can be a Shiba’s way of saying, “I like being with you.” And that’s pretty sweet, don’t you think?

On Their Own Terms

We’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating.

Shibas like to show affection on their own terms. Sometimes they’ll come to you, and other times they won’t.

When they do come, it’s their way of showing they care. Even if it’s not a cuddle, it’s still a sign of love.

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