Simon, here is a link to a Shiba Inu rescue that fosters dogs in the NY/NJ area. Perhaps you could contact them and ask for some guidance...

(and if you decide to not take this on, a breed specific rescue organization would stand a better chance of placing this pup in an appropriate home, I think...)
http://nycshibarescue.org/

When I worked at a nearby vet we had 3 that came in all the time for boarding. They were all "family" members and hated anyone that was not their owners. On the flip side we have a friend who has one and he is more scared of his own shadow and would never attack unless seriously provoked. IMO I think that the trial period would be best because they are all different and all very unpredictable.

Thanks to all who have chimed in with great info and links and such.

I heard back from my friend that the owners live in a small apartment in Manhattan and feel bad that the dog ("a good dog") is crated for most of the day while they're at work and that's why they're giving him up. Why they didn't think of this before they got him is beyond me, but it is what it is I guess. Maybe the time commitment was too much for them.

The wifey and I talked more in depth (after reading all of your great insights) of how another dog (esp a shiba) would affect our fam (louie), finances, and time in the present and near future and we're leaning towards not adopting.

In any case, I will pass along the shiba rescue link (thanks lynne) to them. Will keep you all posted if anything develops. Thanks again folks!

Good Luck! I hope it works out for the pup...keep us posted. We love stories with happy endings .

I've had the pleasure of living with a Shiba-Inu (male) for the past year, as well as having a working-line German Shepherd Dog (female) for almost three, as well as two cats.

The Shiba is quite different than our GSD, his interest in work or obedience is largely limited to when there is something in it for him (that is, he'll get a treat). The description of a high prey drive and independent is fairly accurate. There is probably nothing more interesting to him than a squirrel or Canada Goose.

Fetch is a game that comes quite naturally, and he has learned to return quickly with a ball or frisbee... Outting the ball on the other hand is a different story. We have long given up on the idea of letting him off-leash, and he roams "freely" with a 30' cotton long line. This affords a good deal of space, but ensures that he can be easily caught.

He's good natured, and is quite like a cat around the house coming when he feels like he wants attention, and content to lay on the floor when it suits him. Gets on well with the cats, and the GSD, but he's been socialized with them all from day one.

Certainly not the dog for everyone, especially if you want a dog you can let off leash. Like any other breed, every dog is a bit different.

Hope your friend's pup finds a good home.