Shiba Inu: A Guide to Chewing Bully Sticks

Shiba Inus are ancient Japanese hunting dogs with built like an athlete with strong, well-developed jaws. They have fox-like faces and a muscular frame, which gives them good bite force.

Strong Jaws with Hunting Heritage
Shiba Inus were bred well before even 1967 for hunting small game in mountainous terrain, which requires strong jaws and a tenacious gripping ability. Their bite force ranges from 200-250 PSI—which is for their 17-23 pound size. Their skull has well-developed masseter and temporalis muscles, giving them powerful, efficient jaw mechanics.

Their dental structure is defined as being well-aligned with proper spacing of the teeth. Shiba Inus have 42 adult teeth in a medium-sized muzzle, which generally allows for good dental health when provided with appropriate chewing opportunities.

In Short—Which EverChew Holder?
Shiba Inus should use the Medium EverChew Plus holder with superchewers getting the black nylon holder. The Plus's durable elastomer construction provides the necessary strength to withstand their determined chewing while offering enough give to be gentle on their teeth. For those aggressive chewers, the SuperChew nylon holder may be appropriate since we had it made from indestructible nylon.

Understanding Bully Stick Benefits and Why Holders Are Critical
Shiba Inus are natural chewers with strong prey drive and working instincts, making appropriate chewing outlets essential for mental stimulation and dental health. Bully sticks are pure protein treats (similar to beef jerky) that provide an ideal chewing texture—firm enough to satisfy their powerful jaws and effectively scrape away plaque and tartar while still being digestible and safe.

But, Shiba Inus' stubbornness makes them resist giving up bully stick stubs that are choking or blockage risks. Also, their personalities  mean they might guard their chews, so taking away the stubs could be hard.  Putting the stick into a holder makes sure that they can't choke no matter how much they work on the stick.

Life Stage Considerations and Chewing Patterns
Puppy Phase (2-8 months): Shiba Inu puppies suffer thru teething between 3-6 months as their adult teeth emerge. They hunt for firm textures for relief, and starting proper chewing habits early helps stop destructive chewing behaviors later on. 

Adult Phase (8+ months): Adult ShibaInus stay at active chewing throughout their lives, using it as a mental stimulation and stress relief. Their independent style means they need consistent outlets for their instincts, and chewing gives both physical and mental satisfaction.

Selection Guidelines
Choose the Medium EverChew Plus holder if your Shiba Inu:

• Is a normal to moderate chewer with typical Shiba temperament.

Select the Large SuperChew holder for Shiba Inus:

• If the Shiba Inu is an aggressive chewer who can destroy typical chew toys in minutes.