Welcome to Dakine Shiba Inus & Exotic Cats

At Dakine, we are a small, ethical, and purpose-driven breeding program, specializing in:

• Shiba Inus

• Maine Coon Cats

• Highlander Lynx Cats

• Maine Coon x Highlander Pharaoh Cats

We no longer breed Siberian Huskies, though our foundation male, Dakine’s Afanasy Aleksie, remains our heart dog and constant companion.

Who We Are

We are a family-based program primarily located in Oregon, though we travel frequently for both our dogs and our equipment business. Our passion for animals runs deep—with over 35 years of experience in canine and feline care, breeding, genetics, health, and behavior.

This lifelong dedication has led to:

• Speaker invitations at events like The Ultimate Dog Summit

• Features in SDVoyager, Waggly Dog, Shoutout CA, Shoutout AZ, and Canvas Rebel

• Recognition by The Taming of the Wild media team

• A background as a licensed veterinary technician, with hands-on work alongside leading veterinarians and breeders

My son shares my love of exotic cats, and we now co-manage our small feline program together.

Our Philosophy

Dakine is not a kennel or a commercial cattery. Every dog and cat is a full-time family member, either in our home or living with trusted friends or relatives in guardian homes.

• We do not sell to breeders or allow breeding rights.

• No cats or dogs are ever placed in kennels or catteries.

• Litters are only planned when there's a purpose—whether it's for therapy, service work, breed advancement, or to continue a valued line.

• We only keep what we can personally love and care for—usually no more than four dogs and two cats at any time in our home.

Ethical Breeding with Purpose

Our breeding program is guided by ethics, education, and intentional planning. We breed for:

• Temperament and structure first

• Health, longevity, and quality bloodlines

• PTSD, service, and therapy work

All litters are raised underfoot in our home, receiving round-the-clock care and extensive socialization during critical developmental stages.

Dogs raised in kennels or isolated environments often show lifelong social deficits—something we actively avoid through early handling, exposure, and nurturing environments.

Health Is Our Priority

With a background in veterinary medicine, I personally handle all health screenings, including routine Brucellosis testing, vaccinations, and wellness care.

• We have zero tolerance for breeding from infected or questionable animals.

• All dogs are raised on high-quality diets with supplements such as probiotics, goat milk, and appropriate monthly parasite prevention.

We do not offer outside stud services, and AI is only done with full health testing and PPE protocols.

Our Lifestyle & Environment

We travel full-time in a 45-foot RV, visiting Oregon, Washington, California, Arizona, and Idaho. Our dogs and cats come with us everywhere, and are always part of our lives—not kept in kennels or left behind.

• Puppy pick-ups are arranged based on our current location.

• In-person visits are available by appointment only, and outdoors only (due to health precautions and COVID risk).

• We do not allow visitors inside our RV or home to protect our animals from disease.

Virtual visits via Zoom or FaceTime are always welcome.

Past Experience & Community Support

Before a life-changing car accident, I titled dogs in AKC and International conformation, including Best in Show wins with Miniature Bull Terriers. I’ve since shifted my focus toward service and therapy dog work, helping others through the healing power of animals.

I’ve also mentored fellow breeders in Dobermans and French Bulldogs, assisting with AI, placements, and wellness management.

Why Choose Dakine

We are not your typical breeder. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Purpose-bred dogs and cats, not profit-driven

• Litters are rare and planned, with health and mental readiness in mind

• Puppies and kittens are never raised in kennels or isolated environments

• We emphasize early socialization, mental stimulation, and emotional bonding

• Families are carefully selected, and we maintain lifelong support

• We encourage visits (with precautions) and are transparent about how our animals are raised

A responsible breeder should be small, home-based, knowledgeable, and transparent—someone who is breeding with intention and heart.

Final Thoughts & Advice

When searching for a breeder, look for:

• Fewer than 5 adult dogs or cats, all living in the home

• No signs of kennel-based breeding

• Openness to visits and communication

• Passion for health, behavior, and structure—not color or profit

• Clean, loving, and enriching environments for both puppies and kittens

If I don’t have what you’re looking for, I’m happy to refer you to a reputable breeder. I will never talk down about others, but I always encourage you to visit, ask questions, and trust your instincts.