What is the difference between Akita Inu and Shiba Inu

Akita Inu and Shiba Inu breeds are popular in Russia. The dogs were bred as hunting dogs, but in recent times they are more often bred as companion dogs. Both breeds are originally of Japanese origin and originated on the island of Honshu. What is the difference between these similar dogs?

Akita Inu

The Akita Inu breed, as the name implies, appeared in the Japanese province of Akita on the island of Honshu. In the International Cynological Federation, it was classified as Spitz and breeds of a primitive look. Representatives of the breed are quite large. Males reach a height of up to 70 cm at the withers and weigh up to 45 kilograms, females are slightly smaller – up to 64 cm tall and also weigh up to 45 kg.

One of the most important advantages of the breed is exceptional fidelity. The legendary Hachiko is the most famous representative of the Akita Inu.

Initially, dogs were used mainly for hunting, where representatives of the breed perfectly caught game of any size and could even crush a bear.

● Appearance. Akita Inu are large dogs with powerful paws, broad forehead and cheeks. The muzzle is elongated and tapers towards the nose. Ears neat, triangular. The mouth of the Akita has a special structure, which gives the impression that the dog is smiling. The tail is most often twisted into a ring. Akita Inu are overly fluffy, with a coarse coat and a soft, light undercoat. The color is different – white, black, red and brindle. The most common is red.

● Character. Akita Inu is a wonderful companion, suitable for single people and families with children and other pets. Very active, playful and friendly pet. These dogs are smart and stubborn, so most likely the training will require the help of a professional dog handler. If the house has never had a dog, you should not start with an Akita Inu.

● Keeping. Due to the thick coat, the dog needs to be brushed at least once a week, and preferably more often. During molting, it makes sense to visit the groomer. It is not necessary to bathe the Akita Inu too often – three to four times a year is enough if the dog is not dirty. You can wash the animal by treating the hair on the face with a special lotion. You also need to take care of your pet’s teeth and ears. Regarding nutrition, you need to consult a veterinarian specialist – he will help you choose a well-balanced diet.

Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu also comes from the Japanese island of Honshu. It is believed that the ancestors of modern dogs were brought to Japan more than two and a half thousand years ago. According to the classification of the ICF, this breed, like the Akita, belongs to the spitz and breeds of a primitive species. These are medium-sized dogs – up to 41 cm at the withers and up to 15 kg in weight. Shiba Inu live an average of 12 years.

● Appearance. Shiba Inu looks very similar to Akita, but much smaller. Their physique is strong and proportional. The head is small, the muzzle is elongated towards the nose. The ears are small and triangular. The coat is very thick and dense, the most common color is all shades of red.

● Character. A very wayward dog that has its own opinion on everything, which is similar to a cat. The owner must be an unquestioned authority, otherwise the pet will do whatever he pleases. Specialist assistance may be required to train and teach teams. Representatives of the breed are distinguished by curiosity and perfectly tolerate high physical exertion.

● Keeping. Just like the Akita, the Shiba Inu will need to be combed out very often and taken to the groomer for a haircut. It is necessary to wash the dog no more than once every six months or when a clear unpleasant odor appears. You should carefully consider the choice of a nursery – Shiba Inu has hereditary diseases, although in general these are dogs with excellent health.

Breed differences

The main difference between Akita Inu and Shiba Inu is size and character. Akita Inu are larger, friendlier and easier to train, while Shiba Inu are small and independent dogs, similar to a cat in character. Both breeds are not particularly fond of voicing, so neighbors will not often hear them.

When choosing a dog, you must carefully choose the breeder and check the documents. The puppy also needs to be examined in a veterinary clinic.

See also:

Grooming and bathing instructions for your dog Do’s and don’ts to discipline your dog What do dogs like and how to pamper them?