The Akita and the Shiba Inu are two of the cutest dog breeds in the world. The two belong to the spitz family, and look quite similar to one another which might be confusing for many people. However, there are certain distinct physical features that make the Akita and Shiba Inu different from one another.
The Akita and the Shiba Inu also have a number of differences in terms of their behaviour and grooming requirements. This article would tell you about everything you need to know to understand the similarities as well as the differences between Akitas and Shibas, so that you can decide on which one to bring home.
Size
The Akita is a large sized dog breed that stands tall at 24 to 28 inches. The male Akita weighs between 100 to 130 pounds while the female weighs between 70 to 130 pounds.
The Shiba Inu is a small to medium sized dog breed that stands tall at 13 to 16 inches generally. The male Shiba Inu weighs up to 23 pounds while the female weighs around 17 pounds.
Characteristics
The Akita is a large sized dog breed that is burly and heavy boned. It is of the spitz type and has an imposing stature. The coat of an Akita comes in several shades including white. An Akita has a broad and huge head, and a fluffy or full tail which stays curled over. It has erect ears and dark shiny eyes.
The Shiba Inu has a double coat that comes in combination of the shades of white, red, black, red sesame and tan. They are almost fox-like and look extremely cute and smart. The Shiba Inu has a sturdy physique that is enhanced by its personality. They have an effortless gait and are agile and quick.
Temperament
The Akita is a courageous, profoundly loyal breed. A breed of Japanese lineage that is famous for its dignity, Akitas are considered to be a symbol of good health and happiness in their native land, and are extremely helpful and protective. Akitas are generally not very fond of strangers or other animals, and tend to crave for attention from their loving humans.
The Shiba Inu is a dog breed that adapts to different kinds of homes and in different kinds of families. It is a sweet natured dog. The Shiba Inu is a confident dog breed which remains alert under all kinds of circumstances. They are lively and playful, and are always game for adventures.
Grooming
The Akita is a breed that tends to stay clean, and has very little doggy odour. The breed does not require heavy or extensive breeding. All you need to do is make sure to brush its thick coat once or twice a week. Brushing its coat keeps it luxurious and at its best. They shed twice a year, and it is suggested to brush the coat more frequently during that period of time to help them get rid of the dead fur. The nails of an Akita should be trimmed regularly, and its teeth need to be brushed regularly as well.
Shiba Inu does shed a lot. Though it is said that they shed twice a year during their seasonal shedding periods, that sometimes lasts for weeks or even months. Brushing or combing a Shiba Inu frequently helps to reduce the amount of shedding. Shibas tend to object to trimming of its nails, but starting early often helps. It’s good to brush the teeth of Shibas frequently too.
Monthly Maintenance
The monthly maintenance cost of an Akita ranges between Rs. 2500 to Rs. 8000 depending upon the kind of grooming that is provided to the dog. It also varies due to the location of the dog, which sometimes determines the basic health conditions of an Akita.
The monthly maintenance of a Shiba Inu ranges between Rs. 8000 to Rs. 12000. It is quite higher than that of an Akita because the shedding of Shibas is much more frequent. So grooming kits and other hygiene related products also get included in the cost.
Diet and Nutrition
An Akita should be given high quality dog food. It does well on both commercially manufactured food products and home-made dog food. Akitas that are older than seven years of age should be given a lighter or less calorie diet. Akitas tend to gain weight, so that treats need to be kept in check.
Just like an Akita, Shibas require high quality food. Some Shiba Inus tend to be picky about their food, but it gets easier with time. The veterinarian’s advice should be followed for a Shiba Inu to be fed the proper amount of food with nutritional values. Raw minced meat like beef or lamb can be fed, but must be consulted first.
Exercise
The Akita is not highly active as a breed, and requires a moderate amount of exercise. A brisk walk or a jog once a day helps to keep an Akita fit and fine.
The Shiba Inu loves to play and go on walks. They tend to climb walls if not taken for their daily walk! Shibas require daily exercise because they are very hyper. You can also engage them in some fun physical games or even the good ol’ catch!
Training
Akitas are loyal by nature. They also, however, have an independent and headstrong side to their personality. Therefore, consistent training is important for the Akita. Early socialization makes it easier for the Akita to understand and remember that not every stranger is a threat to its family.
The Shiba Inu is an extremely curious and hyper dog breed, which makes it almost impossible to guarantee that training would teach a Shiba Inu to remain calm and intact at one place. Shibas may just run off at the sight of an open gate or any other kind of distraction. So it becomes extremely important to be attentive throughout. It is important to train a Shiba Inu puppy so that it learns to follow the very basic commands.
To know more about these two breeds, read these detailed articles on Akita and Shiba Inu.
