Taurus is a Shiba Inu with over 300,000 fans on TikTok.
This female Shiba Inu is one half of Cody and Taurus on TikTok – and together they’ve been entertaining dog lovers on the video platform throughout the pandemic.
Cody’s passion for video editing led to the creation of their various social media accounts where they’ve delivered lots of laughs thanks to their relatable content.
We spoke to Cody to learn more about life with a Shiba Inu, whether some of the stereotypes about the breed are true and his creative process.
You can check Cody and Taurus on TikTok (@cody.taurus), YouTube (Cody & Taurus) and Instagram (@cody.taurus).
1) How did you end up with Taurus?
I’ve always wanted a puppy since I was a kid, but my parents disliked dogs. Once I moved out and started working from home, I decided I had enough spare time to dedicate to raising a pup. I ended up getting her from a local breeder in October 2020.
2) What attracted you to the Shiba Inu breed?
I really like the appearance of the Spitz breeds. The pointy ears and wolf/fox-like look always caught my eye. I also grew up watching anime, which is Japanese animation, and Shibas are Japanese dogs so I would say they’re the Golden Retriever of Japan and they had a huge presence in the content I would watch as a kid, which is what led me to always want one.
3) How would you describe Taurus’ personality?
Independent! Although she has the typical Shiba traits you’ll read about online, hardly likes to cuddle, stubborn and aloof, outside of that she’s very curious, absolutely loves to meet new people (for about 2-3 mins, then she’s over it), playful and friendly with other dogs.
4) What does an average day look like for Taurus?
The average day consists of Taurus bolting to greet everyone who comes through the door. Staring out the patio glass door at the overweight squirrels that taunt her. Playing with her toys, going on walks with me or napping.
5) Are Shiba Inu unfairly stereotyped as difficult or stubborn dogs or does this ring true?
I’d have to agree it is true they can be difficult dogs, but it just takes the right owner with immense patience to be their leader and instill good behavior. I think it’s more common for the wrong owner to get the right dog – which leads to the stereotypes.
6) Do you have any advice for someone thinking about getting a Shiba Inu?
If you’re a first time dog owner and you are considering a Shiba, please do extensive research and talk to other owners before jumping the gun. Many people have told me stories of losing their Shiba because of how unprepared they were.
7) Does Taurus attract a lot of questions or get confused for other breeds when you’re out and about?
Yep – most people just ask “what kind of dog is that?” or say “it looks like a fox!”. I don’t think anyone has confused her for another breed, but they do confuse her gender though. I’m pretty sure half of my audience think she is a male.
8) Why did you decide to start an account for Taurus?
I’ve always loved creating content, particularly video editing where I can make something with special effects, amazing visuals or that’ll just leave an impression on someone. I just couldn’t pick a niche. So when I got Taurus and TikTok became a thing I decided to combine my two favorite things and start an account for us.
9) How does Taurus react to filming content?
It depends what kind of content we’re filming. Anything that involves her wearing stuff? Low tolerance. Things that involve pressing buttons or barking on command? All day! For the most part she cooperates though.
10) Do you have a preferred social media platform where you feel you best connect with your fans?
Definitely YouTube. I love seeing recurring users, and getting to know them personally, and that seems to be more common with my YouTube subscribers. It has just been harder to grow on YouTube as opposed to TikTok, so I hope to funnel some of the fans over to YouTube.
11) What’s your favourite video that you’ve posted so far?
On TikTok, my “How to Make a Shiba Inu” video, on YouTube, “First 24 Hours with my new Shiba Inu Puppy”. I felt like those videos brought out the most creativity in me, and made the most impressions on my audience.
12) What advice would you have for someone thinking about starting a social media account for their pet?
If you’re looking to just show off your amazing pet and have fun, it’s easy and can be a great way to bond and make memories with your Pet. If you’re looking to do the ladder, and potentially make content that will make an impression on others – i.e. skits, special tricks and talents, it is A LOT harder than it looks. So I advise to always have fun with it, follow similar creators that you love, and be patient with your pet because you may be in the mood to film and create content but they might not. Their health and wellness should always come first!
