If you REALLY want to get an idea of what the Shiba Inu personality is like, I HIGHLY recommend these 2 websites:

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

http://www.stormpages.com/bravewolf/shibainu.html

The 2nd site is quite funny, but believe me, every word is very true.

Shiba Inus are very unique - I have one and I organize a Meetup Group for them, so I have met SEVERAL of them - each one is different and the same. I've met some that are great with kids, however I also do rescue for them in our area and the #1 reason these dogs are given up are because of families with young children. Either no time or the dog has snapped at the child (for various reasons).

You said you have a 13 yr old. To get a Shiba involves a lot of work and commitment and patience and a sense of humour. I don't have children, so all I can tell you is what I know. You would need to really look at how your son or daughter behaves towards other dogs. A very mature 13 yr old might do just fine.

In fact, I know of a 12 yr old girl that adopted a rescue Shiba (I think he is 5 yrs old or so) and that dog listens better to her than to her father!

It's not a matter of one person in the family being Top Dog - the entire family must be Top Dog and the Shiba MUST know that.

They are wonderful dogs, but they are very intelligent, which can be good and bad.

All I can say is please do plenty of research on any breed you are interested in and try your hardest to make THE PERFECT match for your family and the dog.

Bonnie
Toronto Shiba Inu Meetup
Shiba Rescue GTA