One thing that everyone has heard about dogs is that as a pet they will love you without any bounds and will put your needs above themselves. But sometimes, we humans have our restrictions when it comes to being compatible with an animal.
Humans have to make a choice on which dog will be best suited for their lifestyle. So here is all the information you’ll need if you’re stuck between getting a Shiba Inu or a Chihuahua.
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What are the main differences and similarities between a Shiba Inu vs chihuahua?
The Shiba Inu and the Chihuahua are both very different dogs. They both have distinct personality quirks and physical appearances. But in many aspects, they are quite similar. If you look closely enough and examine their behaviors, you can observe these differences and similarities yourself.
Characteristics
Both the dogs are extremely alert, and they always stay on their feet. The Shiba Inu is confident, fearless, and faithful. And the Chihuahua is loving, lively, and devoted.
These traits might not seem too different, but in actuality, they are two very different characteristics. It makes Shiba Inu a shy dog, which has to get to know a person before being comfortable, and it makes a Chihuahua a dog that is eager to get to know strangers.
See also: Shiba Inu vs. German Shepherd
Shiba Inu comes in tan, sesame, and cream colors, whereas the Chihuahua comes in darker colors like black, grey, and chocolate brown. Shiba Inus aren’t vocal dogs hence they rarely ever bark. Unlike them, Chihuahua bark loudly and boldly due to their comfort with social interactions, which Shiba Inus lack.
Personality
Shiba Inus originated from Japan, where they were used as hunting dogs to hunt small game. That says a lot about their personalities. Shiba Inu are smart dogs, they aren’t just tough, but they’re also genius.
Chihuahuas, however, are simple dogs that lack intelligence. Another big difference between both breeds is that Shiba Inu doesn’t need attention from strangers whereas Chihuahua demands attention and adoration.
Shiba Inu are much less emotionally demanding than Chihuahua. Chihuahua likes to have regular routines and hates disruption but Shiba Inu are fast to adjust. Shibas Inu are affectionate, just like Chihuahuas. Both breeds are extremely loyal, but the Chihuahua is soft and gentle too.
Size
Chihuahua and Shiba Inu are very different in size. Their height is one of the features that can be used to differentiate them. The Reader View of Wikipedia says that an average-sized Chihuahua weighs between 4 to 6 pounds.
Whereas, a Shiba Inu weighs between 18 to 25 pounds. They also are very different in heights with a Shiba Inu being 13 to 15 inches tall and a Chihuahua being 6 to 9 inches tall.
Trainability
Training a dog is one of the most significant moments in the bonding experience between a dog and its owner. Col. Konrad talks about training dogs in his book, ‘Training Dogs: A Manual,’ and how important inducement in training is, especially for dogs like the Shiba Inu.
Shiba Inu is a tough dog to train. Because of its independent nature, it likes to stay in control. That is why the owner should always make the dog believe that he has some independence and can make his own choices. It will help the owner gain its trust and build a strong, long-lasting bond with the dog, which is the key to gaining the dog’s trust successfully.
Chihuahuas are quite the opposite. They are extremely easy to train. Due to their lack of intellectual ability, and attention-seeking nature, the positive reinforcement method works well on them. Chihuahuas are not just loving, but also very agreeable. They like to please their owner, which makes training them easy.
Lifespan
The lifespan of both these breeds is similar, with the Shiba Inu living up to 12 to 16 years and the Chihuahua living up to 13 to 14 years. However, both breeds are prone to a few illnesses.
The Shiba Inu is threatened by diseases like allergies, cancer, and epilepsy. Chihuahuas can get diseases like Hydrocephalus, Hypoglycemia, and Open Fontanel. However, these diseases are quite rare, and these breeds end up living healthy and full lives.
Which one is best for you?
Both breeds have their benefits, so no one can point out and say which breed is objectively better than the other. But, it depends on who wants to adopt the dog. It depends on how convenient it is for you.
Chihuahuas originated in Mexico, which makes them prefer the warm environment. So if you live in a slightly chilly area, Shiba Inu might be the dog for you. If you need it to stay awake at night for safety purposes, Shiba Inu is what you should go with, as they barely require any sleep. Chihuahua is sleepy and lazy dogs compared to Shiba Inu.
It also depends on what you need the dog for. For example, if you need the dog to live amongst senior citizens, Shiba Inu is better as Chihuahua isn’t good with the elderly. But if you need a therapy dog, Chihuahua will be ideal due to its loving nature.
In the same way, if you are looking for search and rescue dogs, they both won’t be any good. And if you’re looking for a dog as an indoor pet, both breeds will be ideal.
Before getting any pet, the owner must first evaluate their living situation and make decisions in line with it. That way the owner will pick the right breed for themselves. It is also the best way to ensure that the dog comes into a house where they are loved and they can feel at home.
Can Shiba Inu and Chihuahuas get along?
Shiba Inu and Chihuahua are both very different breeds, in nature and appearance. Chihuahua is a small dog, and Shiba Inu is a larger dog. They might not get along well together.
Shiba Inu is a very independent and self-reliant dog. It is stubborn, and uncomfortable in a public situation. Not only is it possible that a Shiba doesn’t get along with a Chihuahua but your Shiba might not get along with any dog, especially the same sex.
