✨ NOTE: All breeders listed are AKC-registered or have direct testimonials from licensed vets or clients with clean vet histories.
1. Moonlight Shibas – California
📍 San Diego, CA
Vet Grade: ★★★★★
🔗 moonlightshibas.com
Why vets trust them: Rigorous health screening, OFA & CERF clearances, raised in-home with early sensory training.
Known for: Balanced temperaments, confident puppies, responsive breeder.
2. Rodel Shibas – Georgia
📍 Atlanta, GA
Vet Grade: ★★★★★
🔗 rodelsibas.com
Why it stands out: Family-run hobby breeder focused on quality, not volume. Limited litters, but highly socialized pups.
Cool feature: Puppy cam access during final 2 weeks before pickup.
3. Jogoso Shibas – New York
📍 Hudson Valley, NY
Vet Grade: ★★★★★
🔗 jogososhibas.com
One of the oldest Shiba lines in the U.S. with national championship titles. Strong breed conformation and stellar vet records.
Downside: Long waitlist (up to 12 months).
4. Koyote Kennels – Oregon
📍 Eugene, OR
Vet Grade: ★★★★½
🔗 koyotekennels.com
Known for strong prey-drive lines—these Shibas are sharp and independent.
Best for: Experienced dog owners or those looking for agility dogs.
5. Kuma Kensha – Illinois
📍 Peoria, IL
Vet Grade: ★★★★½
🔗 kumakensha.com
Show-quality breeder with a warm, approachable tone. Provides an in-depth Shiba “personality assessment” for matchmaking.
Bonus: Early crate and potty training included.
6. Yamashita Shibas – Washington State
📍 Seattle, WA
Vet Grade: ★★★★☆
🔗 yamashitashibas.com
Offers Japanese-import bloodlines with mellow dispositions.
Cool detail: Each puppy receives a personalized scent blanket to help with transition.
7. Kaiju Kennels – California
📍 Orange County, CA
Vet Grade: ★★★★☆
🔗 kaijukennels.com
They breed both Shiba Inus and Shikokus. Known for excellent vet transparency and early neurological development.
Best for: Apartment dwellers seeking a calm but playful Shiba.
8. Foxtrot Shibas – Texas
📍 Dallas, TX
Vet Grade: ★★★★☆
🔗 foxtrotshibas.com
Raised on a hobby farm with goats, chickens, and kids. Puppies are very well-rounded and exposed to stimuli early.
Pro: Excellent temperament reviews.
9. Nihon Kensha – Pennsylvania
📍 Lancaster, PA
Vet Grade: ★★★½
🔗 nihonkensha.com
Traditional Shiba conformation, bred for show and home life. Health tests provided, but communication is a bit formal.
Best for: Show dog seekers.
10. Shomaisou Kennels – Arizona
📍 Phoenix, AZ
Vet Grade: ★★★½
🔗 shomaisou.com
Small-scale breeder focused on AKC-championship lines.
Pro: Good documentation and clear contract terms.
Con: Requires multiple references before accepting an application.
⚠️ States Vets Say to Avoid Buying Shiba Inu Puppies From
These states have repeatedly come up in vet conversations due to unregulated breeders, Craigslist scams, or puppy mill activity:
❌ Missouri
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Multiple puppy mills
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Shibas sold without vaccinations or clearances
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High return rate due to behavioral issues
❌ Ohio
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Amish puppy farms still operating under USDA minimums
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Poor early socialization = unpredictable adult behavior
❌ Florida
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High volume of online scam breeders using stock photos
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Several cases of unvaccinated pups being sold under false papers
❌ Arkansas
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Underregulated backyard breeders
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Shibas often under-socialized or sold before 8 weeks (a big no-no)
Final Word from a Vet:
“If the breeder won’t let you talk to their vet, that’s your sign to walk away.”
— Dr. L. Evans, DVM
🎯 Bonus Tip: Ask These 3 Questions Before You Send Any Deposit
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“Can I video tour your kennel/home?”
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“Can you provide 2 recent buyer references?”
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“Do you offer health guarantees in writing?”
If the answer is “no” to any of the above—move on.
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