Shibas are definitely not for everyone. Shiba people are the first to tell you that...LOL

Here are a couple more links for you (and your son) to look at.

http://www3.sympatico.ca/shiba.inu/not4ev.htm

http://www.creslane.com/shibas.htm

If your son does end up getting one, please please tell him to start desensitizing the dog to getting it's nails cut from day one. Shiba's are one of the toughest breeds, that come into work, to cut the nails of. I don't know why, but that has just been my experience with them.