Guardian Homes

We place dogs intentionally and thoughtfully. Every potential breeding dog is carefully selected based on health, temperament, structure, and alignment with our long-term vision for the breed. By the time a dog is considered for our breeding program, we have already made a significant investment in health testing, evaluation, training, and development to ensure each dog meets our standards.

Guardian families play a meaningful role in shaping the future of our lines while enjoying the companionship of an exceptional dog in their homes. Guardian dogs live full, loved lives as family members, returning to us only for showing, breeding-related needs, health testing, or puppy-raising when applicable before retiring permanently with their guardian families.

At this time, the Takikawa Guardian Home Program is generally at full capacity. We are not accepting general guardian home applications.

We add new guardian homes only when a specific breeding need, the right dog, and an appropriate home all align. This allows us to provide each dog — and each guardian family — with the time, support, and attention they deserve.

While we do not anticipate opening the program broadly until around 2029, we may consider an exceptional local home for a future male Shiba if the right puppy, family, and program need align. Those who feel strongly connected to our program and philosophy are welcome to check back in the future.

Thank you for understanding our commitment to placing dogs responsibly, intentionally, and with lifelong wellbeing as the priority.

Guardian dogs are typically placed between 8–12 weeks of age, though occasionally an older dog may be placed with an experienced guardian family. When our program is open, the following minimum requirements apply to ensure the best possible outcome for both dog and family.

• No Other Dogs: Your guardian dog must be the only dog you currently have in your home.
• Fenced Yard: Your home must have a physically fenced yard. In some cases, we will consider a home without a fenced yard, but only if the guardian family agrees to keep the dog on a leash at all times when outside a fenced area.
• Diet and Supplements: You must provide the food and supplements we require and recommend to ensure your dog’s optimal health and well-being.
• Training: Families must attend a conformation class monthly until the puppy is 8 months of age. These classes not only help train the puppy for the show ring, but also help with socialization and manners. If you successfully test for the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) and your dog passes, we will honor you with a special gift for your hard work!
• Vaccinations and Healthcare: You must follow our guidance for vaccinations and healthcare as we deem necessary.
• Monthly Visits: As a puppy, we will visit regularly for playdates and training every 3-4 weeks, until around 5-7 months. This helps with socialization and strengthens our relationship with your dog.
• Work Schedule: You should have a work schedule that doesn’t leave the puppy home alone for more than 4-5 hours a day. If both adults work full time, at least one must be able to come home during breaks to walk the puppy.
• Transportation: You must be able to transport the puppy or dog to us for visits, training, health testing, shows, and breeding-related needs when necessary.
• Dog Shows: Guardian dogs must be made available when we would like to attend a dog show with them. Guardian families are welcome to attend too, and cheer them on.

These expectations reflect the level of care, communication, and collaboration we believe every guardian dog deserves.