Breeding Shiba Inus is far more complex than simply pairing a male and female dog. It is a meticulous and thoughtful process that requires significant investment of time, money, and resources.
We carefully evaluate the pedigrees of both the potential sire and dam—examining the dogs' parents, grandparents, and beyond—to ensure they meet the strict criteria we set for breeding. This allows us to predict with greater accuracy what the pairing could produce.
While we are highly active in the conformation show ring and aim to produce the next generation of champions, our commitment to preserving the Shiba Inu breed remains at the heart of everything we do. We carefully select breeding stock based on the principles below.
While the Shiba Inu breed is generally healthy and robust, there are certain genetic conditions that we are vigilant about, such as hip, knee, heart, and eye problems. To ensure that we are breeding healthy dogs, we screen for these conditions using proven veterinary methods, including x-rays and ophthalmology exams. While a clean bill of health is important, it does not guarantee that hidden genetic issues don’t exist. We rely on certifications from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip, patella, and eye health.
The physical structure of a dog, or its “soundness,” is vital for the breed’s functionality. The Shiba Inu was originally bred as an all-day hunter and should be able to run, jump, and perform physical tasks without tiring easily. We focus on the dog’s overall structure, ensuring that they are built for endurance and physical activity. Legs that are too long or short, crooked elbows, or an overly long back can cause future health issues, including arthritis and muscle strain. We take every factor into account when selecting breeding dogs to maintain the Shiba Inu’s functional soundness.
While health and structure are essential, we also consider the aesthetic qualities of the Shiba Inu. We lean toward the Japanese type, following the breed guidelines closely while adhering to established breed standards. We strive for dogs with:
We avoid dogs with:
We always start by pairing the dogs on paper, studying their pedigrees and looking at the possible outcomes. Click the button to view an example of a pedigree:
We don’t breed every female every season. Several factors come into play, such as the female’s show schedule, the availability of suitable males, time of year, and other considerations. Each breeding is carefully planned to ensure the health and well-being of the dogs and the future puppies.
Our puppies are born in a safe, monitored environment where we can keep a close eye on them at all times. The first 9 weeks of life are crucial, and we make it a priority to have the puppies underfoot or carried around during this time. Early socialization is key to shaping well-adjusted Shibas. Since the Shiba Inu is still a relatively primitive breed, their first instinct is to avoid anything that is not their mother. Through constant human contact, we help our puppies learn to trust people and enjoy the companionship that humans offer, ensuring they grow into well-rounded, confident adults.
