Shiba Inu vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Shiba Inu vs Japanese Spitz - Breed ComparisonBoth Shiba Inu and Japanese Spitz are originated from Japan. Shiba Inu may grow 9 cm / 4 inches higher than Japanese Spitz. Both Shiba Inu and Japanese Spitz are having almost same weight. Both Shiba Inu and Japanese Spitz has almost same life span. Both Shiba Inu and Japanese Spitz has same litter size. Both Shiba Inu and Japanese Spitz requires Low maintenance.

History

shiba inu - historyThe Shiba Inu hails from Japan and was a dog bred to hunt birds and small game. The dog is one of 6 native breeds in Japan. Today he is essentially a companion dog in both Japan and the United States.

He is actually one of the smaller spitz dogs in the country but known for his boldness.

The first Shiba Inu was imported into the United States in 1954 and was recognized by their Kennel Club in the Miscellaneous Class and also the Non-Sporting Group.

japanese spitz - historySpitz dogs include quite a few dog breeds and these dogs all have similar characteristics – pointed, erect ears, slanted type eyes with thick fur.

The Japanese Spitz was developed by Japanese breeders at the time of the 1920s, and bringing in quite a number of dog breeds to do so. The breeders started with the white German Spitz dogs but later other white Spitz breeds were imported and crossed into this developing breed.

The final standard for the breed after World War 11 was accepted by the Japan Kennel Club. The dog became recognized by other kennel clubs of the world.

Description

shiba inu puppy - descriptionThe Shiba Inu is a medium sized, athletic dog standing at between 33cm and 43cm in height both male and female and weighing in the region of 6 to 11kg.

He is an agile dog, known for his feline agility. He has the typical spitz dog erect ears and slanted eyes with the tail curling over the back.

The coat is available in a number of colors – cream, red, sesame, black and tan.The double coat is thick and is made up of straight, stiff kind of hair.

Temperament:

This is an intelligent, independent, alert, strong willed dog who has a calm aura about him. He is stubborn too, so it will be best to have him trained or socialized just to make him more amicable to get along with.

As he is a dog that just loves his human family, this training helps him to get along with other dogs too. He is possessive with his human family, wanting to guard them and everything he regards as his territory.

japanese spitz puppy - descriptionThe Japanese Spitz is a small to medium sized dog, being somewhat larger than the Pomeranian. The dog stands at 25 – 38cm, both male and female and weighs anything between 5 to 10kg.

The double coat of the dog is thick and white and the puppies look like large snowball.s He has a pointed muzzle with erect ears and a tail that curls up over the back.

Temperament:

The pure-bred Japanese Spitz, just like other Spitz dogs are smart, inquisitive dogs who show loyalty to their owners, getting on well with children in the home and making a good family pet.

They can be quite stubborn, so training and socialization becomes important if you want him to be obedient. Training is easy as he is an intelligent, bright little dog.

They’re able to adapt to life in the city or in the country, but if you live in the city, you will need to meet his exercise needs.

He can tolerate cold weather quite well but as a companion dog, he prefers being indoors with his human family.

Even though they are small dogs, they are protective and make good watchdogs. They were bred to be companion dogs and they take this role seriously, being loyal, entertaining, fun, friendly and loving with their human family.

It is why they are becoming such a popular breed as they have an amicable nature, getting on well with other pets as well as children.

Characteristics

The Shiba Inu looks like a large fox and he is just as bright and alert.

shiba inu dog - characteristicsHe is the smallest of several spitz dogs that originated in Japan. He is known for his bold, feisty personality and for being so good natured as well. Other excellent characteristics are intelligence, strong-willed, loyal and loving and he has a calm, confident dignity around him.

He will get on well with kids and other dogs he has grown up with but he can be a bit aggressive towards dogs he doesn’t know.

Always ensure good exercise. Getting outside and active is important for this dog.

You can certainly benefit from having this wonderful dog in your life as he has some excellent characteristics.

japanese spitz dog - characteristicsYour Japanese Spitz is going to make you a superb companion and you want to ensure that you are well prepared for him when he arrives. He is feisty, charming, social, bright, alert, active, loyal and loving and you want to be sure that he has everything laid on as a 4-legged family member.

He isn't a high maintenance dog, he isn't demanding and if you love and care for him, you'll find that he fills a vacancy in your life that you'll never want to be without again.

Health Problems

shiba inu puppies - health problemsShiba Inus are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain health conditions. Look out for things such as hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, bloat, cancer, eye diseases and skin allergies.

Skin Allergies:

Skin allergies can come about because of being allergic to food, fleas, too much shampooing and some medications. It can be traumatic for your pet who will sometimes chew and bite to get relief. Treatment varies but get your pet to the vet.

Glaucoma: 

There is pressure in the eye, and symptoms can include vision loss and pain. Glaucoma can be treated with eye drops but sometimes surgery is required.

japanese spitz puppies - health problemsLife expectancy for the Japanese Spitz is about 10–16 years. They are a healthy breed with few genetic problems. Nothing is set in stone though, and your healthy dog can fall prey to some of the many common dog illnesses there are.

They're so sweet, you're tempted to feed him treats all the time, but obesity is a common Japanese Spitz health issue and obesity can lead to many problems with the heart, kidney, diabetes and even joint pain.

Also, eye problems such as ingrown eyelashes and a lower eyelid that rolls inward are problems that are known to trouble these Spitz type dogs. It leads to terrible irritation and damage to the eye. It's definitely time to see the vet to avoid infections and injury.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

shiba inu dogs - caringA nice long walk out and about in the neighborhood is good for this dog. Apart from a daily workout, he will love to come running with you or if you go cycling, he will run next to you. He will require exercise every day.

Grooming:

Brushing your Shiba Inu will be required at least twice a week as he is a dog that sheds quite a bit throughout the year. You want to get rid of those loose hairs to keep him looking nice and groomed.

Diet:

Never pop sugary treats into your pets mouth and avoid feeding him spicy, toxic foods. It can drastically upset his digestion.

You can feed your Shiba Inu commercially manufactured food but it should be the best quality ones. Give him some tasty homemade food too. Simply add into one big pot chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. This food can all be chopped up, refrigerated and added warmed up and in small portions to your pets dry kibble once or twice a week.

Try and also give him some raw meat occasionally. Ensure that there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Exercise:

japanese spitz dogs - caringThe Japanese Spitz is an active dog and he will require at least one walk a day to keep him happy. He is full of beans and wants to go with you on all your outings.

Diet:

The diet of your Japanese Spitz is basic to his good health. If you feed him low quality foods deplete of vitamins and minerals, you'll end up with a sick dog who is always at the vet. Puppies need 4 small meals a day while an adult dog can have 1 or 2 meals a day.

He can benefit from the top quality commercially manufactured foods and sometimes you can add in some cooked chicken, rice and vegetables into his dry kibble. Add in a little bit of raw meat too from time to time and ensure that he can always reach his bowl of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

The beautiful white fur of your Japanese Spitz will need to be brushed at least twice a week to keep it free from loose hair and to keep the fur bright and vibrant.

Check his nails and avoid them getting too long as they can hook on things and cause injury. Check his ears inside and out, keeping them clean and free of debris. Very importantly, keep his teeth clean as dental disease can play havoc with a dog's health.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Companion dog
Origin:
Japan
Japan
Height Male:
33 - 43 cm
12 - 17 inches
25 - 34 cm
9 - 14 inches
Height Female:
33 - 43 cm
12 - 17 inches
25 - 34 cm
9 - 14 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 11 kg
13 - 25 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 11 kg
13 - 25 pounds
5 - 10 kg
11 - 23 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
1 - 6
Size:
Medium dog
Small dog
Other Names:
Japanese Shiba Inu, Shiba-Ken
Nihon Supittsu
Colors Available:
Cream, red, sesame, black and tan.
White
Coat:
 Double coat - thick and straight
Longish and fluffy
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Shiba Inu vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Shiba Inu vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  3. Shiba Inu vs Sakhalin Husky - Breed Comparison
  4. Shiba Inu vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  5. Shiba Inu vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  6. Shiba Inu vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  7. Shiba Inu vs Portuguese Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  8. Shiba Inu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  9. Shiba Inu vs Puli - Breed Comparison
  10. Shiba Inu vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  11. Shiba Inu vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  12. Shiba Inu vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  13. Shiba Inu vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  14. Shiba Inu vs McNab - Breed Comparison
  15. Shiba Inu vs Porcelaine - Breed Comparison
  16. Shiba Inu vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  17. Shiba Inu vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  18. Shiba Inu vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  19. Shiba Inu vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  20. Shiba Inu vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  21. Shiba Inu vs Pumi - Breed Comparison
  22. Shiba Inu vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  23. Shiba Inu vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  24. Shiba Inu vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Shiba Inu vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  26. Mal-Shi vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  27. Japanese Spitz vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  28. Japanese Spitz vs Alaskan Klee Kai - Breed Comparison
  29. Japanese Spitz vs Coton De Tulear - Breed Comparison
  30. Japanese Spitz vs Fruggle - Breed Comparison
  31. Malti-Pom vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  32. PekePoo vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  33. Schipperke vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  34. Schweenie vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  35. Lhasapoo vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  36. Meliteo Kinidio vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  37. Hawaiian Poi Dog vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  38. Prazsky Krysarik vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  39. Pugalier vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  40. Kyi-Leo vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  41. Tsvetnaya Bolonka vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  42. Muggin vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  43. Pomeranian vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  44. Maltese vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  45. Pug vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  46. Maltipoo vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  47. Miniature Schnauzer vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  48. Papillon vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison
  49. Miniature Australian Shepherd vs Japanese Spitz - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds