The AKC Breeder of Merit Program honors breeder/exhibitors' dedication and hard work as they continue to produce dogs that are healthy, capable, and beautiful. The foundation of today's AKC Breeders of Merit have the power to influence, guide, and teach future breeders, exhibitors, and all purebred dog owners. Breeders must apply to the AKC to be recognized as Breeders of Merit and must meet the following requirements:

Breeder Categories and Explanations

The following categories are used to assist people choosing where to purchase a Shiba. We hope these will help you understand what breeders do to preserve and protect the beloved Shiba Inu. These categories are voluntary inclusions in listings, so not all breeders have designations.

The usage of any or all of these designations is not to be deemed a guarantee from the National Shiba Club of America Inc. (NSCA), the NSCA Breeder Directory, or the National Shiba Club of America Inc.'s directors and officers. Prospective buyers are urged to consult with their breeder about their individual policies, guarantees, and certifications. Any agreements between purchaser and breeder should, for your protection, be in writing, and signed by the parties.

H Breeders using this designation certify that their breeding stock has been x-rayed, and certified by either the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHip . For OFA certifications, breeders agree to use Shibas with a rating of "Fair" or better in all their breeding programs. Those utilizing the PennHip method only breed Shibas with "Better than Average" ratings. E Breeders using this designation use Shibas that have had eyes cleared of any hereditary defects by a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) or if a foreign breeder, by the appropriate counterpart in his country. Many breeders also register this verification with the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF). Breeders have agreed to do this examination at least once every two years for this designation. K Breeders, who use this designation, certify that breeding Shibas have been checked and rated normal for patellae (knees) by a licensed veterinarian. P Puppies available occasionally. Seldom do breeders have puppies just sitting around waiting for adoption. You should know that you might need to put a deposit on a planned, upcoming litter. If feasible, it is best to visit more than one breeder prior to putting down a deposit. A Adults available occasionally. Sometimes there is that "show prospect" that a breeder keeps for their own, that for one reason or other doesn't quite meet the breeder's high standards for a show pup, and they may wish to place them. Or a breeder has a finished champion Shiba that would be best suited in a new home where they could become the center of attention. Generally speaking, these are Shibas from 1-6 years of age. In both cases these Shibas are usually well trained, housebroken, and make exceptional companions. S Stud service available to approved Shiba bitches R Rescue Shibas available occasionally W All adoptions are done by written placement agreement signed by breeder and purchaser G Breeders using this designation agree to provide a health guarantee for all placements. Any known health defects are disclosed in writing prior to sale or placement C Breeders using this designation indicate that they do exhibit their Shibas occasionally (or use Professional Handlers) in Conformation, to receive AKC Championship status on their breeding stock O Breeders using this designation occasionally exhibit their Shibas in AKC shows of obedience, agility, canine good citizen, etc. T Therapy dogs go into hospitals, residential homes, schools, special needs centers, nursing homes. They are not limited to just these activities. The object is to bring these specially certified dogs to cheer and comfort people of all ages.

Contact a breeder or club member of your choosing for more information regarding the Shiba Inu breed. Many of our club members love to talk about their Shibas, and welcome the occasional visitor or telephone call. Please contact us if you have any questions or comments.