Main Difference – Akita vs Shiba Inu
Akita and Shiba Inu are two dog breeds that originated in Japan. These two breeds look very much similar with similar characteristics except their size. The main difference between Akita and Shiba Inu is that Akita is largest Japanese breed whereas Shiba is the smallest breed. Unlike other breeds, these breeds are the most popular Japanese breeds outside Japan. However, in Japan, Shiba is more popular than Akita. These two breeds are well adapted to live in colder environments and possess some common features, including dense double coat that provide better insulation, erect and small ears that are protected from wind and snow, tightly curled tail that covers their noses while sleeping in their typical circular position, and thick muzzle that warms the air in the respiratory tract. This article highlights the difference between Akita and Shiba Inu.
Akita – Facts, Characteristics, and Behavior
Akita is the largest dog breed in Japan and known for being alert, aggressive, friendly, loyal, protective, and courageous. Moreover, they have dense, thick and water repellent coats with the colors of black, brown, red, and white. These breeds are well adapted to live in very cold climatic conditions. They are mainly used for hunting and guarding. They need low maintenance, unlike Shiba Inu. Constant shedding is common. Life expectancy of Akita is about 10-12 years. The adults are 25-28 inches height and weigh 85-130 lbs.
Shiba Inu – Facts, Characteristics, and Behavior
Shiba Inu is the smallest known Japanese breed and known for being loyal, aggressive, alert, energetic and territorial. Shiba Inu is a multi-talented breed that excels in various activities like guarding, hunting and, tracking. Their coat is fine, short and thick with the colors of black, tan, red, and white. These breeds need low to moderate grooming due to constant and seasonal shedding. The life expectancy is around 12-15 years. The adult Shiba Inu is 15-17 inches tall and weighs around 23 lbs.
Difference Between Akita and Shiba Inu
Body size
Akita is the largest Japanese breed
Shiba Inu is the smallest Japanese breed
Height
Akita is 25-28 inches in height.
Shiba Inu is 15-17 inches in height.
Weight
Akita is 85-130 lbs in weight.
Shiba Inu is 23 lbs in weight.
Coat Color
Akitas are black, brown, red, or white in color.
Shiba Inus are black, tan, red or white in color
Shedding
Akita sheds constantly.
Shiba Inu sheds constantly and seasonally
Litter Size
Akita gives birth to 3-12 puppies.
Shiba Inu gives birth to 2-3 puppies.
Barking
Akitas bark rarely.
Shiba Inu barks occasionally.
Life Expectancy
Akitas live about 10-12 years
Shiba Inu live about 12-15 years
Shiba Inu is territorial, unlike Akita.
Image Courtesy:
“Japaneseakita” by Sevenfatdogs at English Wikipedia.(CC BY 3.0) via Commons
“Taka Shiba” by Takashiba at English Wikipedia – (Public Domain) via Commons
