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Finding a reputable and ethical Shiba Inu breeder in Arizona, or any state can be difficult.

For every one good Shiba Inu breeder around there are likely to be dozens of low-quality, puppy-mill / backyard type breeders.

It’s going to be tough to wade through the density of potential bad choices.

However, the following information will give you valuable insights on how you can find a reputable Shiba Inu breeder and how to avoid the “bad” ones.

Shiba Inu breeder in Arizona

Arizona Shiba Inu Breeders - How to Find Them

Most reputable and ethical Shiba Inu breeders around the U.S. are actually very hard to find.

And even when you do, the waitlists are typically long and the requirements to get a Shiba puppy from them can be tough.

This is because breeding quality dogs of any breed is expensive and time-consuming.

The majority of reputable breeders do it because it is their passion versus a business.

When looking for a reputable Shiba Inu breeder, look for breeders affiliated with National Shiba Club of America as well as members of the AKC Breeders of Merit program. 

Shiba Inu breeder in Arizona Shiba in desert

Additionally look for breeders that actively show their dogs in local competitions including but not limited to conformation, agility, good dog, dog sports. 

It’s also very important to look for breeders that do health tests that check for hips, eyes, and various genetic diseases common in the Shiba Inu breed. 

If the breeder does not do any tests - that’s already a solid red flag. 

Breeders that specialize in multiple dogs are more likely, but not always, focused on breeding as a business versus breeding for health and quality. So be aware of that.

How To Spot Puppy Mills and Backyard Breeders

Spotting a puppy mill / backyard breeder is not difficult once you learn the basics.

Puppy mill breeders are often easily found on various websites that usually always have an abundance of puppies available to “ship anywhere and everywhere”. 

No background check is needed as these types of breeders will sell to anybody that gives them a valid credit card.

Shiba Inu breeder in Arizona Shiba Inu hiking in the desert rocks

Although a lot of them are reported to have “puppy contracts” and or “puppy guarantees” - many have reported that these contracts are all but empty promises and heartache.

Puppies from these establishments are low-priced compared to typical Shiba Inu prices. Often these puppies come from “puppy farms” that are often linked to Amish puppy operations. 

It’s important to understand that supporting these types of establishments perpetuates the cycle of animal cruelty.  

The following is a list of known and / or reported “puppy-mill type” operations or serve as a link to puppy mill operations:

  • Lancaster Pets
  • Puppy Spot
  • Greenfield PUppies
  • Shibapup.com
  • Keystone Puppies
bad shiba inu infographic

Arizona Shiba Inu Breeder: Nippo Hauoli

Nippo Hauoli Shiba Inus is home to the some of the finest bred Shiba Inus in North America.

Yumi Hagiwara is an AKC breeder of merit and has extensive knowledge and expertise on the Shiba Inu as well as the Shikoku dog breed. 

Fun Fact: Yumi named her kennel Nippo Hauoli Shibas as an ode to her love of the Hawaiian islands!


Beautiful red Shiba Inu from Nippo Hauoli Shiba

Stunning Shiba Inu from Nippo Hauoli Shiba

Arizona Shiba Inu Breeder: Serenity Shiba Inus

Laurie Cribbs raises and breeds champion Shiba Inus from her home in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Occasionally she has pups available on the AKC puppy marketplace.

Arizona Shiba Inu Breeder: Kari-on Shiba Inus

Kari-On Shiba Inus located in Wittman, breeds both Bengal cats and Shiba Inus - quite an interesting combo! 

Kari-On does show their Shiba Inus at dog shows and has produced champions. 


beautiful and promising Shiba Inu puppy from Nippo Hauoli

Nippo Hauoli Shiba Inu

How to Find More Shiba Inu Breeders in Arizona

The best way to find reputable Shiba Inu breeders is to go out and network at Shiba Inu breed events and shows, as well as Shiba Inu clubs.

When it comes to finding a good lead on a healthy Shiba Inu puppy, networking at these events is going to be your best bet by far. 

It’s a lot more work and time compared to doing a simple Internet search - but the end results are guaranteed to make the effort and time worth it.

Because there are not many Shiba Inu breeders in Arizona, you may want to consider to acquiring a Shiba Inu from California.

Shiba Inus in Arizona Resources / Links

Finding an Ethical Shiba Inu Breeder in California

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