How to Prepare a Shiba Inu for the Canine Good Citizen Test

Step-by-step

1. 1

   Master Reliable Sit and Down Commands

   Begin with the sit command using high-value treats (chicken, cheese) to incentivize compliance, since Shibas are notoriously food-motivated but selective about rewards. Practice in short 5-10 minute sessions daily in a low-distraction environment, gradually introducing mild distractions like toys or other people nearby. Once sit is rock-solid (at least 90% reliability), transition to down—this is often harder for Shibas due to their proud posture, so patience and never forcing the position are essential.

2. 2

   Build Bulletproof Recall Within Fenced Space

   Recall is where most Shibas fail the CGC test; address this early by practicing only in securely fenced areas to prevent your escape-artist from bolting. Use an ultra-high-value reward (rare treat or exciting toy) that ONLY appears during recall practice, creating genuine competition with outdoor distractions. Start at very short distances (2-3 feet) and gradually extend, never forcing the Shiba back to you by chasing—always let them choose to return for the reward.

3. 3

   Desensitize to Handling and Grooming

   The CGC test requires a stranger to pet your dog and examine their ears, mouth, and paws without aggression or extreme shyness. Shibas often resist handled due to their independent nature; begin by gently touching their paws, ears, and muzzle at home during calm moments, pairing each touch with treats. Gradually introduce trusted friends to do the same, building positive associations with stranger-initiated touch before the formal test.

4. 4

   Practice Loose-Leash Walking and Heel Position

   Shibas tend to pull and wander; teach loose-leash walking by rewarding them generously for staying near you rather than pulling forward. Practice 'heel' position (dog on your left side, close to your leg) in quiet environments first, then introduce moderate distractions like parks with other dogs visible at a distance. The CGC test requires walking through a crowd, so progressively increase environmental complexity over 4–6 weeks of training.

5. 5

   Condition Sit-Stay and Down-Stay at Distance

   The CGC test requires your Shiba to hold a sit-stay or down-stay while you walk away and remain out of sight briefly. Begin with you standing just 1–2 feet away for only 10 seconds, marking success with 'yes!' and an immediate treat reward. Incrementally increase distance and duration by no more than 5 seconds or 1 foot per session, since Shibas' independent nature makes them prone to breaking early.

6. 6

   Prevent Unwanted Barking and Reactivity

   Shibas have a moderate barking tendency; control excessive vocalization by identifying triggers (other dogs, doorbells, unfamiliar sounds) and redirecting attention to a toy or treat *before* the bark occurs. Practice the 'quiet' command by waiting for a natural pause in barking, marking it with 'yes!' and rewarding, reinforcing calm behavior over punishment. During the final weeks before the test, practice calm responses to test-like stimuli—doorbell sounds, stranger approaches, and crowded spaces.

Pro tips

• ✓Never train a Shiba when they're tired, overstimulated, or disinterested—they'll resist more stubbornly. Train when your dog is naturally calm and alert, ideally before meals when hunger motivation is highest.
• ✓Use *only* rewards your Shiba cannot resist (real meat, special cheese, beloved toy), and save these exclusively for CGC training so novelty doesn't wear off. Rotate rewards session to session to maintain excitement.
• ✓Accept that Shibas are naturally aloof and won't display affection like other breeds; focus on obedience and impulse control rather than trying to change their independent temperament. A 'passing' Shiba is one that complies with commands, not one that loves the stranger petting them.

Frequently asked questions