The Right Home for your Pup By Patricia Doescher A call came from a frantic Shiba owner asking for my advice. She was uninformed, frustrated and eager for answers. After a short conversation it was fairly obvious her six month old puppy was exhibiting relatively normal Shiba behavior, but with several small children and no former dog experience, this lady was ill-equipped emotionally and physically to handle this breed of dog. For those of us who know the breed, we understand Shibas are unique. Their instincts are somewhat feral in comparison to more domestic breeds. Most dislike having their nails clipped, will give you a fight at bath time and if forced to do something of which they object can emit a high-pitched scream quite shocking to those unfamiliar with the sound. They seldom return when called if taken off-leash and when held, will mouth on hands with little regard to how hard they are biting. They can become dog aggressive if not socialized properly and sometimes still, even if they are. These innate responses are expected, a natural occurrence in this proud and dignified dog. We have come to love this independence and have found igneous ways to train them, letting them learn there is always something to be gained by positive actions and doing as asked. But unprepared, a new owner can’t handle these individualities which then leads to upsetting problems for all concerned. Interviewing the potential buyer and assessing their ability to handle a Shiba is a necessary part of responsible dog breeding and an important step to a satisfactory “forever” home for your pup. Refusing to sell a Shiba to some families is a difficult decision but most people are thankful for the honesty and are happy to get assistance in locating a breed suitable to their expectations. This is, after all, the time to “tell it like it is” regarding challenges in raising this breed. If you don’t educate your prospective buyer they can find themselves with a puppy they can’t control and don’t want! Approved owners given strategies to use in handling breed related problems almost always guarantee a happy outcome for all. Yes, Shibas are great pets, just not for everyone! They can adjust to almost any life-style given sufficient exercise and activities to occupy intelligent minds. With adult supervision for both pup and child they can be fine children’s pets, and given proper socialization are well-mannered fun additions to all types of homes. New owners should ideally be firm trainers, not swayed by adorable Shiba expressions or Shiba screams and have time to socialize a puppy and join classes. A kind and loving nature to give praise when needed and cuddles when asked, is a must, but most importantly having a good sense of humor to laugh at the absurd antics of this fascinating breed is a necessity. Remember, as breeders there is nothing more important we can do for our puppies then assure they are placed in loving homes prepared to handle our breed.