Shomaisou Shiba Inu Blog

The Shiba Inu Connection

Here’s the critical part for Shiba Inu owners and breeders:

Every known Shiba Inu we have tested to date (except 1) carries at least one copy of the low ALT gene—and many have two copies.

That means a low ALT value on a blood panel is normal for most Shibas. It does not automatically mean something is wrong. By itself, this gene is not harmful—it simply changes what “normal” ALT looks like for that dog.

The bottom line:

Your veterinarian needs to know your Shiba’s genetic status and should take a baseline ALT reading while your dog is healthy. This way, they’ll know what’s normal for your Shiba and can detect even small increases over time—because for a Shiba, a rise from 15 to 30 might be as significant as a Labrador’s rise from 50 to 200.

Additional Information on low ALT

In canine health testing, you may come across results mentioning the “low ALT” gene (also called the GPT gene variant). This genetic marker affects how your dog’s liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT) appears on routine bloodwork.

ALT is a key part of most veterinary chemistry panels and is often used as an early warning sign for liver disease. But in dogs with this genetic variant—especially Shiba Inu—their normal ALT level may naturally be lower than the standard lab reference range, without any sign of illness.

ALT and What It Does

ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is an enzyme made in the liver. When liver cells are damaged, ALT leaks into the bloodstream. High ALT is usually a red flag for liver problems.

For most dogs, “normal” ALT falls within a certain range set by the testing lab. In a dog with the low ALT gene, their baseline ALT is naturally lower than that range. This can be misleading if the vet doesn’t know the dog’s genetic status.

How the Low ALT Gene Works

The low ALT trait is inherited in a recessive pattern:

One copy (carrier) – ALT levels are often on the low end of normal.

Two copies (affected) – ALT levels are naturally well below the lab’s normal range.

By itself, this gene is not harmful—it simply changes what “normal” ALT looks like for that dog.

Why This Matters for Liver Health

The low ALT gene becomes especially important when monitoring for conditions like copper toxicosis, where ALT is often used as a first sign of trouble. In a Shiba Inu with this gene, ALT may stay within “normal” limits—or rise only slightly—even if liver damage is present.

One copy – ALT may rise with disease, but not as dramatically.

Two copies – ALT may remain low even with significant liver injury.

That’s why other diagnostics—such as bile acids testing, ultrasound, and possibly liver biopsy—should be considered if there’s any concern.

Key Takeaways for Shiba Inu Owners

Low ALT is normal in Shibas—most have one or two copies of the gene.

Always get a baseline ALT when your dog is healthy.

Share genetic test results with your vet so they interpret ALT correctly.

Watch for changes over time rather than comparing your dog to the lab’s reference range.

Don’t rely solely on ALT—especially if your Shiba also carries copper toxicosis variants.

Download our Handout for you and your vet.

Related reading:

Copper Toxicosis in Dogs – What Breeders and Owners Should Know

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We’re excited to announce an upcoming litter here at Shomaisou Shiba Inu, expected around August 13, 2025. This pairing has been carefully planned with a focus on health, temperament, and adherence to the traditional Shiba Inu standard.

The litter brings together our proven stud Kuro and the intelligent, energetic Chupa—a combination we believe will produce well-balanced, structurally sound puppies with strong potential in conformation, companionship, and dog sports.

About the Parents

Kuro

Pedigree: https://dogbreederpro.com/s/dog/mqnQZMqonwE23

Kuro is a striking red sesame male with deep pigmentation, correct proportions, and a stable, confident temperament. He is a gentle yet assertive presence in our home. He exhibits clean, efficient movement and the classic Shiba expression. Kuro’s pedigree features notable Japanese lineage, and his offspring consistently inherit his outstanding temperament, natural confidence, and structural correctness.

Chupa

Pedigree: https://dogbreederpro.com/s/dog/RPL3P8rJ423LL

Chupa is a red female who carries black & tan. She has a compact frame and a bold, outgoing personality. Alert, responsive, and highly intelligent, Chupa embodies many of the traits we seek to preserve in the breed. She also has one of the best temperaments in our household—friendly, adaptable, and incredibly intuitive. Raised with Puppy Culture protocols, she is appropriately aloof with strangers and forms strong bonds with her people, as is ideal in the Shiba Inu.

What to Expect

This pairing is expected to produce:

50% red

25% black & tan

25% red sesame

Puppies will be whelped and raised under our comprehensive early socialization and enrichment program, which includes:

Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)

Puppy Culture protocols

Noise and surface desensitization

Crate and leash foundations

Exposure to children, other dogs, and varied environments

Puppies will be structurally evaluated around 8 weeks of age and placed based on temperament, structure, and suitability—not simply by color or gender. Companion homes must demonstrate long-term stability, prior breed research, and a clear understanding of our intact contract, vaccination protocols, and placement philosophy.

Companion and Show Prospects

We expect this litter may produce both companion puppies and show prospects, depending on how each pup matures.

Companion pricing ranges from $3,300 to $4,600, based on whether the litter is enrolled in our Puppy Preschool program, which extends the stay through 10–12 weeks and includes additional socialization and foundation training.

If you’re interested in a show or performance prospect, please indicate this in your application. We offer mentoring and ongoing support to homes that want to preserve and promote the Shiba Inu through responsible exhibition and/or performance.

How to Apply

We are currently accepting applications for this litter through our secure Good Dog portal:

https://apply.gooddog.com/shomaisou-shiba-inu-ohio

We review each submission and follow up with qualified applicants via phone or video chat. Please apply early if you’d like to be considered for this litter.

Follow the Litter

Follow this Spreadsheet to track puppy progress after they are born. Before they are born watch the tab called Temp Chart. When Chupa's temperature drops down to around 98, she will whelp with in 24 hours.

Photo Album

Once the puppies arrive, approved applicants and serious inquiries will be given access to our Live Puppy Cams during waking hours.

To view the cameras:

Download the Foscam app

Create a Foscam account

Contact us at [email protected] with the email address used for your Foscam account so we can share access.

We are thrilled about the potential of this Kuro × Chupa pairing and look forward to watching these puppies grow into the next generation of balanced, beautiful Shiba Inu.

If you have any questions about this litter or our program, please feel free to reach out directly.

Warm regards,

Rex & Tanya Gaylord

Preservation Breeders | Shomaisou Shiba Inu

Brecksville, Ohio

https://shibas.dog

[email protected]

(702) 845-3283

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Copper toxicosis is a genetic and metabolic condition where a dog’s liver accumulates excess copper over time, potentially leading to inflammation, fibrosis, and liver failure. While most research has focused on breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Bedlington Terriers, growing genetic screening efforts have identified carriers in other breeds, including Shiba Inu.

Download our Handout for you and your vet.

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If you’re searching for a healthy, well-socialized Shiba Inu puppy from a trusted, preservation-focused breeder — or dreaming of raising your own champion Shiba Inu — we’re thrilled to introduce our latest litter, bred with integrity and heart: the Kuro x Pretty Kitty pairing.

This exciting litter includes six puppies: three red Shiba Inu males, two black & tan males, and one black & tan female — all with gorgeous markings, confident personalities, and champion-pedigree potential. Whats behind the names? The temporary names are explained in the Growth & Development Spreadsheet.

• Kuro x Kitty Bravo Boy 1 "Smoke" DNA Results
• Kuro x Kitty Bravo Boy 2 "Oak" DNA Results
• Kuro x Kitty Bravo Boy 3 "Malt" DNA Results
• Kuro x Kitty Bravo Girl 4 "Sherry" DNA Results
• Kuro x Kitty Bravo Boy 5 "Brine" DNA Results
• Kuro x Kitty Bravo Boy 6 "Peat" DNA Results

Bred with Purpose, Raised with Heart

At Shomaisou Shiba Inu, we don’t just breed for looks — we breed for health, structure, and temperament, following the standards of both the American Kennel Club (AKC) and NIPPO (the Japanese Shiba preservation society). This litter reflects our unwavering commitment to breed improvement, sound temperament, and traditional Shiba type.

Sire: Kuro – Owned by Joan Morningstar, Kuro is a striking sesame male known for his confident disposition, balanced structure, and expressive movement.

Dam: Pretty Kitty – A black & tan female also owned by Joan Morningstar and currently leased to Shomaisou, she adds elegance, type, and a gentle temperament to this breeding.

See the Puppies for Yourself

We believe in full transparency — and the joy of watching puppies grow! Follow the development of these six special puppies via our live tools:

• Google Photos Puppy Album – View Puppies
• Growth & Development Spreadsheet
• Facebook Puppy Cam + Updates

Why Choose a Shomaisou Shiba Inu Puppy?

We are not a commercial kennel. We are a heritage breeder and an active member of the National Shiba Club of America, as well as a featured breeder in their Breeder Directory, with the sole goal of improving the breed and preserving its traditional traits.

 Every Shomaisou puppy is:

• - DNA-tested and clear for 270+ health conditions
• - Evaluated for structure, temperament, and long-term potential
• - Microchipped, vet-checked, and vaccinated under a health-first protocol
• - Raised hands-on in our home with early socialization and lifetime support

Ready to Apply?

We do not take deposits or place puppies first-come, first-served. Instead, we match each puppy to the best possible home based on personality, lifestyle, and long-term compatibility.

Apply here to get started: https://apply.gooddog.com/shomaisou-shiba-inu-ohio

You can also learn more or follow us on these platforms:

• Good Dog Profile: https://my.gooddog.com/shomaisou-shiba-inu-ohio
• Petnax Breeder Page: https://petnax.com/shomaisou
• Doggit Breeder Profile: https://doggit.app/profile/xuElJIzkrWfO9EQlOpeD4mNxBU43
• AKC Marketplace Listing: https://marketplace.akc.org/breeder/shomaisou

We’re On the Road — But Still in Reach

We’re currently traveling full-time by RV with our dogs, showing throughout Wyoming, California, Nevada, and Oregon. We’ll be attending the Shiba Inu National Specialty in Lake Perris (October) and the Napa Wine Country shows (November). Our final event of the year will be in Orlando, Florida (December) before we return home to Ohio.

 We offer flexible options for puppy delivery, including:

• Flight nanny service
• In-person pickup
• Meet-ups or delivery when logistically feasible

Final Thoughts

The Kuro x Pretty Kitty litter is shaping up to be one of our most exciting yet — blending beautiful red and black & tan coats with strong structure and warm temperaments.

 If you’re searching for a Shiba Inu puppy raised for quality, health, and true breed character, or you’re hoping to work with a reputable champion Shiba Inu breeder, we invite you to join our waitlist and start the journey with us.

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Introduction

Shiba Inu are spirited, intelligent, and undeniably captivating—but they’re not the right match for every household. Often called the “cat of the dog world,” the Shiba Inu is known for its fierce independence, expressive personality, and striking appearance. But under that charming exterior lies a breed that requires thoughtful ownership, consistent training, and deep respect for its nature.

Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned canine enthusiast, here are 7 essential things you need to know before welcoming a Shiba Inu into your life.

1. Shiba Temperament & Personality

Shiba Inu are famously bold, confident, and aloof. Bred originally for hunting in Japan, they possess strong prey drives, keen awareness of their surroundings, and a stubborn streak that can surprise unprepared owners.

While they are highly intelligent, they are not always eager to please. Training a Shiba Inu requires patience, creativity, and consistency. They tend to bond closely with their family but may be indifferent—or even suspicious—toward strangers and other animals.

If you’re looking for a dog that thrives on obedience and hangs on your every word, the Shiba may not be your ideal match. But if you respect their autonomy and learn to work with them, they’ll return the favor with loyalty and affection.

2. Health & Testing Checklist

Responsible breeders prioritize health. Before committing to a puppy or adult Shiba Inu, ensure the breeder performs the following health screenings:

OFA Patellar Luxation (kneecap stability)

OFA Hip Evaluation (hip dysplasia risk)

OFA or CAER Eye Exams (for conditions like glaucoma or PRA)

Optional Genetic Testing (for allergies, autoimmune risk, etc.)

Ask for the OFA record or CHIC number for both parents. You can verify health tests through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) database or at akc.org.

A quality breeder won’t just mention testing—they’ll show the documentation.

3. Color, Coat & Grooming Needs

The Shiba Inu has a dense double coat that sheds heavily twice a year (called “blowing coat”). Acceptable AKC colors include:

Red – the most common and iconic

Black and Tan – dramatic and bold

Sesame – a striking red with black overlay

Cream-colored Shiba Inu, while adorable, are considered a serious fault under the breed standard due to lack of contrast and defined urajiro (white markings). They should not be bred or shown.

Weekly brushing is sufficient during most of the year, but during seasonal shedding, daily grooming helps manage the hair explosion.

4. Training & Socialization Tips

Early socialization is non-negotiable with this breed. Enroll your puppy in a puppy kindergarten class, expose them to various environments, and give them plenty of positive experiences with strangers, children, and other animals.

Use positive reinforcement methods—Shibas respond poorly to harsh corrections and can shut down or become defiant.

Training commands like “Leave it,” “Come,” and “Wait” can be life-saving when combined with leash control, especially given their prey drive.

Remember: a bored Shiba is a mischievous Shiba.

5. Day?to?Day Care Requirements

Shiba Inu are clean dogs with minimal odor and cat-like grooming habits. They’re highly adaptable and can thrive in both apartments and houses—as long as their physical and mental exercise needs are met.

Key care elements:

Daily walks (30–60 minutes)

Mental enrichment (puzzle toys, scent games)

Crate training for safety and structure

Supervised off-leash play only in secure, fenced areas

They are prone to separation anxiety if improperly raised. If you work long hours or travel frequently, consider if your schedule is compatible with owning a Shiba.

6. What to Ask a Breeder

Don’t be shy about asking tough questions. A reputable breeder will welcome your diligence and ask you just as many in return.

Here are a few smart questions to ask:

What health tests have the parents had?

How long have you been breeding Shiba Inu?

Can I meet or see photos of both parents?

Do you offer a contract and health guarantee?

What is your return policy if things don’t work out?

Bonus tip: A good breeder will have a waitlist, provide references, and may even require an application or interview before placing a dog.

7. Long?Term Commitment

Shiba Inu can live 12 to 15 years, and owning one is a serious responsibility. Consider the long-term costs:

Veterinary care (routine and emergency)

Food and supplements

Training and boarding

Grooming tools and maintenance

Equally important is the emotional commitment—Shibas are fiercely loyal and form strong bonds with their people. They thrive in homes where they are understood, guided, and loved as intelligent individuals—not just cute companions.

?? Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re serious about adding a Shiba Inu to your family, we’re here to help.

?? Download our free “Shiba Readiness Checklist” to make sure you’re fully prepared.

?? Or schedule a consultation with us to discuss your goals, experience, and next steps:

?? Schedule a Meeting with Shomaisou Shiba Inu

Shomaisou Shiba Inu is a preservation breeder based in Brecksville, Ohio, committed to health, structure, and temperament.

Learn more at ?? https://shibas.dog or call ?? (702) 845?3283.

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