Shiba looks cute, but this breed overall is very stubborn and much harder to train for the first-time dog owners.
Check mini-goldendoodle! They are smart, friendly, super-easy to train (compared to many other breeds), low to moderate activity level (so you don't have to walk the dog as much as Lab when you're busy), low shedding, low prey drive (this is important for girls and older people). Additionally, many colors and sizes to choose. Con: need grooming every 2-3 months.