Our Story
About Us
We have always loved the Japanese dog breeds. We started with an Akita, "Miko" from Okinawa, Japan.
After she was gone, we saw our first Shiba Inu in the late 90's and fell in love with the breed. Shortly after our first encounter, my husband surprised me with our first Shiba Inu, "Sheba". We spent the next couple of years researching and learning more about the breed and its Japanese standards.
We then acquired our first show boy, "Kepano." He was a black and tan and we started conformation. In 2015, Kepano obtained his Championship and went on to his Grand Championship.
In 2022, our proudest moment was with our dog Indiana, aka "Indy". He was ranked as #2 Shiba Inu in North America for five years, obtaining Best In Show (BIS), Best In Specialty Sweepstakes (BISS), Best In Show Owner Handler (BISOH), and his Platinum Grand Championship Title.
Moonlight Shibas is located on a picturesque 10-acre property in southeast Nebraska. We are proud holders of the AKC Breeder of Merit Silver rank, a recognition of our dedication to health testing, ethical breeding, and ongoing education.
Our Commitment
Our Breeding Philosophy
What we learned from our first Shiba is that we wanted to strive to breed for health and temperament following the Shiba Inu Standard. We ensure genetic health testing, as well as OFA/CERF testing for patellas, eyes, and hips for all breeding stock.
We make every effort to ensure Moonlight Shibas maintains a strong lineage of healthy, high-quality dogs. Our facility features well-maintained indoor and outdoor kennels, providing a balanced and nurturing environment for our dogs. We produce Reds, Black & Tans, and Sesames.
All puppies are screened carefully and we meet with potential families in person. We want every puppy placed in a good, stable forever home, and we remind all families that a Shiba Inu is a 14–16 year commitment.
OFA Certified
Hips, Patellas & Eyes
CERF Certified
Ophthalmologist Tested
AKC Registered
Every Puppy
Vet Health Letter
With Every Puppy
A Special Thank You
We would like to acknowledge our dear friend and mentor, Ann Gorman, who has been our teacher and inspiration throughout this journey. Her guidance has been invaluable to everything Moonlight Shibas has become.