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A cream Shiba Inu puppy holds a red and white striped candy cane across its mouth, sitting in a living room near pine sprigs. 12 / 25

A Shiba Puppy Trotted Off Carrying a Whole Candy Cane in His Mouth

AI imageshiba inu puppycandy canechristmas

A candy cane stretches from one side of a cream Shiba puppy's mouth to the other, and he looks very pleased about it. His ears are pricked, his dark eyes look slightly to the side, and his fur is as soft as a cloud. Behind him, a couch with a knit pillow, pinecones and pine sprigs, a wooden crate of decorations, and a sunlit floor make a warm holiday scene. Let's call him Kuma. He seems to think he's found the best treat of the season.

Shiba Inu puppies are small, fox-faced, and famously independent. They are alert and clean, and they can be strong-willed, so patience and reward-based training go a long way. Starting early with socialization and gentle handling helps a Shiba become a well-mannered adult. They shed a lot, and their coats need regular brushing, especially during the seasonal blowouts. They tend to be quick learners, but they decide for themselves how interesting a lesson is.

The candy cane is the part to watch. Sugary candy isn't healthy for dogs, and sugar-free versions can contain xylitol, a sweetener that's very dangerous to dogs. Even a plain candy cane can break into sharp pieces that may hurt a mouth or throat, and the wrapper is a hazard too. If you give your puppy a holiday chew, choose something made for dogs instead. If he swallows candy with xylitol, call your vet or an animal poison hotline immediately.

Kuma carries his prize with great pride, so the swap for a dog-safe chew should go well. A good trade deserves praise.

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