Something Shiba owners often talk about is how their fluffy friend shows affection, and how they show their love.

With Shibas sometimes being hard to read, it makes owners wonder whether their Shiba actually loves them.

Today we’re talking about everything you an owner would want to know about understanding their Shiba’s affection, and the signs that indicate they do actually love you.

Understanding Shiba Inu Affection

Understanding your Shiba Inu’s affection levels is an important part of having a strong bond with your furry friend. Shiba Inus are known for their independent spirit, and they may not display affection in the same way as other dogs. However, this doesn’t mean they love you any less.

Shiba Inus are often compared to cats due to their aloofness and independence. They may not always seek out physical affection like cuddles and constant petting, but this doesn’t mean they’re not affectionate. Their love language is simply different.

They may prefer to show their love by staying close to you, bringing you their favorite toy, or displaying excitement when you play with them. Trust is a huge factor in a Shiba Inu’s affection, and it may take time for them to trust new people. But once they do, they show a deep level of loyalty and love.

So while your Shiba Inu might not be the most outwardly affectionate dog, they’re full of love for their humans.

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12 Signs Your Shiba Inu Loves You

Let’s run through the 12 signs to be aware of that indicate your Shiba does in fact love you. All Shibas are different, and will show their love in their own unique and quirky ways. Still, the following signs are definitely worth knowing and watching out for.

1. Follows You Everywhere

If your Shiba Inu always wants to be by your side, that’s a clear sign they love you. Dogs often show their affection by wanting to stay close to the ones they love. So, if your Shiba Inu follows you around the house, it’s because they see you as part of their pack and want to be near you.

2. They Bring You Their Favorite Toy

When your Shiba Inu brings you their favorite toy, it’s their way of sharing something they love with you. This is a classic doggie sign of trust and affection. They’re letting you into their world and want to engage with you on their terms.

3. Their Tail Wags Excitedly When You Come Home

One of the simplest and most endearing signs of love is when your Shiba Inu wags their tail in excitement whenever you come home. This signals that they’ve missed you and are happy to see you again. It’s their way of showing you that you’re their favorite person in the world.

4. They Make Eye Contact

Shiba Inus, like most dogs, use eye contact as a way of communicating. If your Shiba Inu looks into your eyes often, they’re trying to create a bond with you. It’s their way of expressing love and trust.

5. They Lean on You

This adorable behavior is another sign of trust and love. When your Shiba Inu leans on you, they’re showing you they feel safe and secure in your presence. It’s a way of saying, “I know you’ve got my back.”

6. They Sleep Near You

If your Shiba Inu always wants to sleep near you, it’s because they love being around you. Dogs are pack animals and sleeping near their loved ones makes them feel secure and happy.

7. They Give You Lots of Licks

While some people don’t like being licked by dogs, it’s a common way for dogs to show affection. If your Shiba Inu is giving you lots of kisses, it’s their way of saying they love you.

8. They Are Calm When You Leave

A Shiba Inu that loves you will trust that you will come back. They may not like it when you leave, but they stay calm because they trust you. This trust is a sign of deep love and bonding.

9. They Listen to Your Commands

If your Shiba Inu loves you, they’ll respect and listen to your commands. This shows that they view you as their leader and respect your decisions. It’s another form of their love and trust in you. Of course, this is also heavily dependant on training too.

10. They Check On You

A Shiba Inu that frequently checks on you, making sure you’re okay, is displaying affection. It shows they care about your wellbeing, which is a clear sign of their love for you.

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11. They Show Their Belly

When a Shiba Inu rolls over and shows you their belly, they’re showing you they trust you completely. This vulnerable pose is a great sign that they love and trust you.

12. They Get Excited When You Play with Them

If your Shiba Inu gets excited every time you play with them, it’s a clear sign of affection. They love spending time with you and see playtime as a special bonding opportunity.

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Improving Your Bond with Your Shiba Inu

Building a strong, loving bond with your Shiba Inu is a rewarding process, and it doesn’t have to be too difficult.

Here are several ways that you can improve your connection!

1. Spend Quality Time Together

Quality time is important for any relationship, including the one with your Shiba Inu. This could involve playtime, training sessions, or simply chilling out together at home. The more time you spend with your pup, the stronger your bond will be.

2. Learn Their Language

Understanding your Shiba Inu’s unique way of communicating will bring you closer. Pay attention to their body language, barks, and other sounds they make. This will help you respond better to their needs and feelings.

3. Engage in Regular Training

Training is a great way to establish trust and improve communication. Plus, Shiba Inus are intelligent dogs who enjoy the mental stimulation. Always use positive reinforcement methods, rewarding good behavior with treats or praise.

4. Play Games They Love

Every Shiba Inu has favorite games or activities. Engaging in these will show your pup that you care about their happiness. Whether they love fetch, tug-of-war, or a specific puzzle toy, make time to play these games regularly.

5. Provide a Safe Environment

Making your home a comfortable, safe space for your Shiba Inu is crucial. Ensure they have a comfy bed, fresh water, healthy food, and plenty of toys. This will help your Shiba Inu feel loved and secure, strengthening your bond.

6. Regular Grooming

Grooming is not just about keeping your Shiba Inu clean; it’s also a bonding activity. Regular brushing will make your dog feel comfortable and cared for. Plus, most Shiba Inus enjoy the attention they get during grooming.

7. Be Patient and Consistent

Finally, patience and consistency are key. Building a strong bond with your Shiba Inu won’t happen overnight. But with consistent positive interactions and patience, your bond will grow stronger over time.

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Last thoughts

The truth behind how our dogs feel about us is usually more simple than we think. We tend to overthink things, but when it comes to our dogs, as long as we sufficiently meet their daily requirements and show then our own love and attention, they will love us unconditionally.

Dog’s are a lot more simple than we are.

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