When it comes to choosing a dog breed, it can be a daunting task, especially when you find yourself stuck between two exceptional breeds like Huskies and Shiba Inus. This article will help you gain a deeper understanding of these two breeds to help you make a more informed decision.
The Siberian Husky, commonly known as Husky, originated in Northeast Asia and was initially bred for sled pulling and companionship. They are famous for their resemblance to wolves, high energy levels, athleticism, and harsh winter conditions adaptability. On the other hand, the Shiba Inu originated in Japan and was initially bred for hunting small and large game. They possess a fox-like appearance, are alert, attentive, watchful, and independent, capturing the hearts of many.
Visual Differences
The Husky averages 20–23½ inches in height, weighs 35–60 pounds, has a lifespan of 12–14 years, requires at least 1+ hour of exercise per day, has moderate grooming needs, is family-friendly, pet-friendly, outgoing, loyal, mischievous, energetic, and independent. On the other hand, the Shiba Inu has an average height of 13½–16½ inches, weighs 17–23 pounds, has a lifespan of 13–16 years, requires at least 45+ minutes of exercise per day, has moderate grooming needs, is family-friendly, pet-friendly, active, alert, intelligent, and independent.
Husky Overview
Husky Appearance:
The Husky is a medium-sized dog with a thick double coat, erect ears, and almond-shaped eyes that are either brown, blue, or occasionally one of each. They have an agouti and white, black and white, gray and white, red and white, sable and white, white, brown and white, black, tan, and white, black color coat.
Husky Personality:
Huskies are incredibly friendly, outgoing, and independent dogs with infinite energy levels. They are known for being extremely vocal and will “speak” often through howling, yelping, whining, and screaming. This playful breed is very affectionate with their family and often great with children of all ages. They are not ideal watchdogs, as they are very open to strangers. Despite requiring plenty of physical and mental stimulation, they are highly adaptable and can do well in various living environments, including apartments, as long as their daily needs are met.
Exercise:
Huskies are incredibly active and athletic working breeds that thrive with a job to do. They require at least 1 hour of exercise daily, but Ideally closer to 2 hours. This breed is not suitable for owners that do not have time to meet their exercise needs. If their daily exercise needs are not met, they can be incredibly destructive. Owners should take note that Huskies are escape artists by nature and are excellent at escaping their fenced-in yards.
Training:
Huskies are not easy to train and can present a challenge for first-time dog owners. Their independent nature and abilities to pull sleds over long distances compel them to be independent of a handler. Positive reinforcement is key to a successful training regimen, and consistent training sessions will help build trust between owner and dog.
Diet:
Huskies require a high-quality dog food that caters to their age and activity level. Owners may adjust the amount of protein in the dog’s diet based on its activity levels. A nutritious, well-balanced diet is key to maintaining healthy skin and coat, optimal immunity, and great overall health. Huskies that work in harsh winter conditions will require higher levels of protein.
Health:
Health-wise, the Husky is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of up to 14 years. They have a predisposition to hip dysplasia and cataracts, necessitating regular veterinary checkups and necessary vaccinations and preventative medication administration.
Grooming:
Huskies boast a dense double coat that is built for the harsh winter weather of their Siberian homeland. Regular brushing is critical for skin and coat health, and to control shedding. They are clean dogs that do a lot of self-grooming, similar to a cat. They possess guard hairs that help repel water and dirt and an insulating undercoat that sheds seasonally, twice per year.
Suitable For:
Huskies suit active families and owners who have the time and energy to meet their exercise needs. They are typically great with children of all ages and love to expend energy during playtime. Owners should remember that the breed is built to work as a team with other dogs and are highly skilled escape artists. Therefore, they are best suited for owners who can keep them secure and meet their mental and physical needs.
Shiba Inu Overview
Appearance:
The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog with a compact body, double coat, erect ears, and curled tail. They have a very agile gait, and their appearance is more fox-like. They come in four different coat colors: cream, red, red sesame, and black and tan, with white markings except for cream.
Personality:
Shiba Inus are confident, independent dogs with high energy levels. They are active, alert, lively, and form strong bonds with their families, often experiencing separation anxiety when left alone. This breed has very strong prey drive and can be territorial and wary of strangers, making them great watchdogs. However, they are not suitable for homes with smaller animals like cats. Early socialization with other animals can help address this problem.
Exercise:
Shiba Inus love to go out for daily walks and make great hiking companions who enjoy playtime with their owners. Owners should dedicate at least 45 minutes per day to meet their exercise needs. Failure to meet them may lead to destructive behavior. Their hunting instincts and independent nature may also make them unpredictable with other dogs.
Training:
Shiba Inus require patience and consistency during training sessions, as they can be potentially stubborn. Positive reinforcement through praise and treat rewards is the best way to train them. It is also important to start training early and introduce them to various situations from a young age.
Diet:
Like all dogs, Shiba Inus require high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and level of activity. Owners can adjust their protein intake based on their activity levels.
Health:
Shiba Inus are generally healthy dogs with a lifespan of up to 16 years. They are predisposed to certain health conditions such as hip dysplasia and are prone to obesity.
Grooming:
Shiba Inus have a double coat that sheds seasonally. Regular brushing is required to maintain healthy skin and coat. Owners should note that excessive bathing may result in dry skin.
Suitable For:
Shiba Inus are ideal for active families, owners, and individuals who can meet their exercise needs and have the patience and experience to train them. They are confident and independent dogs that form strong bonds with their family and make excellent watchdogs. However, their high prey drive and territorial behavior may make them unpredictable with other animals.
Conclusion
In summary, when selecting a dog breed, it is essential to consider the breed’s needs and its suitability with your lifestyle and environment. Both Huskies and Shiba Inus are unique and exceptional breeds that require active owners who have the time, energy, and patience to meet their needs. With consistent exercise, proper diet, regular grooming, and training, these breeds make excellent pets and loyal companions.
