The importance of socialization...

Shibas are a breed that need early socialization in order to have a well-rounded dog as an adult. While some problems that I have seen in all breeds may have a genetic basis, early socialization with people, noises, rides in the car, and the world around them outside your house could make or break the dog's disposition later in life. Even dogs that have some genetic propensity toward shyness or fearfulness, can be socialized to a point that very little bothers them. It is much easier to do this as a puppy than try to correct an adult dog that is shy or fearful.

Puppies, like little children, are sponges at this age. They are taking in everything around them and filing it away. The more you show your puppy, the less chance they will have of being uncomfortable in a new situation later in life. Puppies need to know that as long as you are there, no matter where you are or what situation you are in, they are safe.

I am going to give one quick warning. Until your puppy has all it's puppy shots, do not socialize them with unfamiliar dogs, or take them to places where dogs that you don't know may play. Common sense prevails when it comes to socializing your new puppy. You need to know that the dogs your puppy is playing with are free from diseases that may make your new puppy sick. But once those shots are completed, controlled socialization with other dogs and cats should be a priority.

BUT, while you are waiting for your puppy to have shots, it is still imperative that you take your puppy outside your house. Let them hear the roar of cars and airplanes. Let them see people outside of your home - Introduce them to young children, seniors, people on crutches, people that use wheelchairs, people that wear hats (don't laugh, I have a dog that is afraid of baseball caps and cowboy hats) or sunglasses. Introduce them to crowds of people, different noises, fast moving things like a balloon full of air being let go to shoot across the room. Walk under things flapping in the breeze like clothes on a line, or a shade tarp. And most importantly, let strangers pet your puppy. The more hands that touch your puppy in a kind and gentle way, the more that reinforces to the puppy that people are good and kind.

At this age (8 weeks), I carry puppies around instead of expecting them to walk on leash. That does 3 things:
1. It keeps the puppy away from droppings of other dogs.
2. It gives the puppy a sense of security as you are introducing them to new things
3. It gives you control of the situation (other dogs and people can't interfere with your training as easily-for example: it's easy to step on a small puppy if you don't know it's there)

When the puppy has all it's shots and walks well on a leash, then I take them out without carrying them. But you should still practice walking on a leash even at this age in environments that you know are safe for your puppy.