Akita vs. Shiba: Six Key Differences Explained

Although both Akita and Shiba originated in Japan, and people notice the similarities between them, there are noticeable differences between them. By the way, Akita Inu means “Akita’s dog”, and Akita is the name of the prefecture and its capital. Shiba Inu simply means “little dog” or “dog in the thicket”. The Akita is much larger than the Shiba. Shibas were bred to hunt small game such as rabbits, and Akita were bred to hunt brown bears and elk.

The Shiba is also more popular than the Akita as a pet, although the Akita is Japan’s national dog. Shiba is no longer used primarily as a hunting dog, but is kept as an affectionate pet in Japan and elsewhere. It is also a much older breed than the Akita and is still valued today as a hunting and tracking dog as well as a companion. Read on to find out the main differences between these amazing dogs.

Comparison of Akita and Shiba

Here is a table showing some of the differences between Akita and Shiba.

Six key differences between Akita and Shiba

1. Akita vs. Shiba: size and weight

Akita – the dog is much larger than the Shiba. Females are about 34 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 75 and 110 pounds, while males are slightly larger. Shibas are 13 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 18 and 22 pounds, with males again slightly larger than females.

2. Akita vs. Shiba: Profile

Although the Shiba and Akita have similarities in appearance, the Shiba Inu has a more cunning appearance. It has a tapering muzzle, small, erect, triangular ears, and dark, triangular-shaped eyes with black rims. The Akita’s muzzle is strong and wide, but at the same time it has a soft mouth, convenient for catching waterfowl. It also has triangular, erect ears, but these are located above the dog’s eyes and at the back of the neck. Akita is very similar to the bear she was bred to hunt.

3. Akita vs. Shiba: health problems

The Shiba is a hardy dog, although it can be prone to kneecap slippage and hip dysplasia. The Akita is at risk of several diseases, some of which only affect this breed. Akita is generally sensitive to drugs and insecticides, as well as a condition called pseudohyperkalemia. This happens when a dog’s blood is drawn and its red blood cells are leaking too much potassium. However, there is really nothing wrong with this animal, as dogs originating from East Asia have more potassium in their red blood cell count than other types of dogs.

Akitas are also prone to autoimmune diseases, diabetes, hypothyroidism, bloating, hip and elbow dysplasia, and Cushing’s syndrome.

4. Akita vs. Shiba: temperament.

The shiba’s temperament is playful and active, and is good with children and larger pets in the family. However, it should not be left alone with smaller pets such as mice or rabbits. It was used to hunt these animals and could preserve hereditary memory! Akita has a fearless and surprisingly devoted temperament. They make excellent guard dogs. They cannot immediately accept strangers, especially strangers, and must be supervised when meeting new people or pets. Akitas are also slightly territorial and do not tolerate dogs of the same sex. Dog lovers argue that Akitas should not be the “starting” dog for humans.

5. Akita vs. Shiba: popularity

Akitas are popular dogs and seem to be more popular with Americans than with Japanese, even though they are Japan’s national dog. They became very popular with the returning American military personnel after World War II, and Helen Keller had not one but two Akitas.

6. Akita vs. Shiba: Longevity

Like most large dogs, Akitas do not live as long as small dogs such as Shibas. Akitas live on average for about 10 years, while shibas live for 12 to 15 years.

Next: Porcupine vs. Hedgehog: 8 Key Differences Explored

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the difference between Akita and Shiba?

Although they are similar, the Akita is much larger. He is less playful than the Shiba and more territorial, although he compensates for this with his loyalty. The price you pay for purebred Shiba Inu is more than for purebred Akita. A shiba can cost up to $ 3,500, with the most expensive Akita going for around $ 2,000.

If the dog is going to be shown, then more flowers are allowed for the Akita than for the Shiba. Akita coats can be white, sesame, red, fawn or brindle, while Shibu coats are limited to red with some black, black and brown, sesame with some red with a lighter undercoat.

Is Akita the same as Shiba?

While their similarities are obvious, Akitas are not the same dog as Shiba. Shibas have existed since ancient times, and Akitas were first bred by Japanese nobles in the mountains of Akita Prefecture in the 17th century.

Are Shibas as faithful as Akitas?

Shiba are loyal dogs, but nothing beats the loyalty of the Akita. The most famous of these dogs, Hachiko, was waiting at the train station for his master’s return. When his master died suddenly, the dog, not realizing that his master would not return, continued to sit and wait for the train every day until his own death. He did it for nine years.

Do Shiba Inu and Akita get along?

Shiba Inu and Akita can get along if they are carefully introduced to each other and watch over them until the owner is convinced that they can get along. The owner should also make sure that the shiba is not of the same gender as the Akita, as Akitas have a reputation for being intolerant of that gender.

Akita vs. Shiba – Who Is More Obedient?

Given the reputation of a dog like Hachiko, it can be said that Akitas are more obedient. But there is no reason why a well-trained and well-groomed Shibu cannot be as docile.