She's a lot like a cat when it comes to people she doesn't know. She's very aloof, will come up to you on her terms. She's SO smart. She's very independent, very clean, picky. She's really friendly with "her people" but won't run right up to someone she's never met. Mako has a wonderful personality, she can be very goofy or very regal, depending on her mood. She gives great kisses, she's a fast learner, but she tells you when training time is over...she'll turn tail and ignore you. This breed has to be obedience trained, or you will be hating life, and the shiba will make sure of that. They absolutely cannot for any reason ever be off leash in an open area. They were at one time a hunting dog for small prey, so the sight of a bird or rat will get them running, completely forgetting they ever learned the "come" command! They are not the breed for everyone, they are definately a challenge, but they are wonderful if you are the right person for a shiba. If you plan to get one, do LOTS of research! Make sure its a breed for you, so many people get them because they are cute, which is the wrong reason.
