Chow Chow vs Shiba Inu: Which Breed Is Right For You?

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If you have found yourself torn between the adorable Chow Chow and the charming Shiba Inu, fret not! In this article, we will help you navigate through the decision-making process by examining the characteristics of each breed and determining which one might be right for you. Let’s begin our exploration by delving into the history and background of these two breeds.

Breed Comparison Table

BREED	Chow Chow	Shiba Inu
Hypoallergenic?	No	No
Restricted Breed?	Yes	No
Coat Type	Thick, double coat	Double coat
Grooming Needs	Daily brushing, occasional hand stripping	Regular brushing, occasional hand stripping
Male Height	17-20 inches	17-19 inches
Male Weight	45-70 pounds	23-27 pounds
Female Height	16-19 inches	16-18 inches
Female Weight	40-60 pounds	20-24 pounds
Temperament	Independent, aloof, loyal, protective	Independent, loyal, protective, reserved
Energy Level	5/5	4/5
Exercise Needs	5/5	3/5
Trainability	2/5	3/5
Good For Novice Owners	2/5	4/5
Amount Of Shedding	3/5	4/5
Easy To Groom	3/5	4/5
Prey Drive	3/5	3/5
General Health	2/5	3/5
Tolerates Being Alone	1/5	5/5
Tolerates Cold Weather	4/5	4/5
Affectionate With Family	5/5	4/5
Kid-Friendly	4/5	3/5
Dog Friendly	3/5	3/5
Friendly Toward Strangers	5/5	3/5
Tolerates Hot Weather	4/5	3/5
Intelligence	5/5	4/5
Lifespan	12 to 15 years	12 to 16 years
Popularity	#92	#42
Price	$1,000 – $2,500	$1,000 – 2,500

About Shiba Inus

The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog breed from Japan known for their fox-like features, spirited nature, and expressive personality. Their well-proportioned body, erect ears, and curled tail add to their charm, and their dense double coat provides excellent insulation.

They are agile, speedy, and have remarkable hunting instincts that require physical exercise and mental stimulation. Although they tend to be territorial by nature, they can form deep bonds with humans and coexist harmoniously in a well-socialized environment.

About Chow Chow

The Chow Chow is a distinctive breed from China with a fascinating history. They have a lion-like appearance, medium to large build, and weigh between 45 to 70 pounds.

Their double coat is dense and abundant, with an outer coat that is straight and coarse, and an undercoat that is soft and thick. They come in various colors and require regular grooming. While they have an independent nature, they are loyal and devoted to their families.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Size and Weight

Chow Chows are known for their robust frame, standing between 17 to 20 inches tall and weighing 45 to 70 pounds. Meanwhile, Shiba Inus are smaller, reaching a height of 13.5 to 16.5 inches and weighing between 17 to 23 pounds. Despite their smaller size, Shibas are agile and athletic companions.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Coat Type

Chow Chows and Shiba Inus have different coat types. Chow Chows have a dense, straight, and coarse outer coat with a soft and woolly undercoat, while Shiba Inus have a shorter but plush double coat.

Both breeds come in various colors and require regular grooming, although Chow Chows may need more attention due to their longer and denser fur. Shedding season occurs twice a year for both breeds.

Are Either Breed Hypoallergenic?

Chow Chows have a thick double coat that sheds a lot, potentially releasing allergens. However, they have minimal dander production and are low-shedding.

Shiba Inus have a short double coat that requires regular brushing and moderate shedding year-round, which can exacerbate allergy symptoms. It’s important to spend time around both breeds before deciding.

Proper grooming practices and maintaining clean living spaces can reduce allergen levels in your home.

Grooming Needs

Beginning with Chow Chows, their thick double coat requires regular combing with a quality slicker brush or wide-toothed comb to prevent tangling and maintain their luxurious appearance. Their beautiful mane, especially around the neck, demands extra care to keep it pristine.

A weekly bath suffices for these royal beings unless they find something particularly odorous to roll in. Turning our attention to the grooming of Shiba Inus, their double coat is less dense than that of the Chow Chow, resulting in less shedding.

Regular brushing is still in order, yet they are less prone to leaving hair on your garments and furnishings. A slicker brush or medium-toothed comb keeps their coat attractive and well-kept.

Bathing these self-cleaning wonders is less frequent – once every few months should suffice unless they decide to partake in some muddy fun.

Regardless of breed, routine nail clipping and ear cleansing are vital for both pet and household health, and dental care is key to their oral well-being.

While both these breeds have distinct grooming requirements, the Chow Chow’s dense fur calls for more frequent attention to avoid matting. Conversely, the Shiba Inu sheds less but still needs regular grooming. No matter the choice between these two, the grooming routine should be welcomed as a special bonding time with your furry friend.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Colors

Both the Chow Chow and the Shiba Inu have a variety of coat colors. The Chow Chow comes in shades of red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream, while Shiba Inus are commonly red or orange with white markings, but can also be black and tan or sesame.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Diet

Understanding the specific nutritional needs of Chow Chows and Shiba Inus is crucial. Both breeds have unique dietary requirements that should be met to keep them healthy.

Chow Chows tend to gain weight easily, so it’s important to monitor their calorie intake and provide them with high-quality dog food that is low in fat but high in protein. They can also benefit from a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

On the other hand, Shiba Inus are known for having sensitive stomachs and can be prone to food allergies or sensitivities, so it’s essential to choose a dog food formula that is gentle on their digestive system and free from common allergens such as wheat, corn, or soy.

Both breeds generally require around 1-1.5 cups of quality dog food per day, divided into two meals. It’s worth noting that all dogs benefit from regular access to fresh water throughout the day.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Health Problems

Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise can help prevent or manage these issues. Chow Chows may experience hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, entropion, and cataracts.

Meanwhile, Shiba Inus commonly suffer from allergies, patellar luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy. Always watch out for any unusual symptoms or changes in behavior and promptly address any developing health concerns.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Temperament

Chow Chows tend to be aloof and dignified, while Shiba Inus are more outgoing and lively. Both breeds require early training and socialization, and may not be suitable for first-time owners or those seeking submissive pets.

Which Breed Is More Playful?

When it comes to playfulness, both the Chow Chow and Shiba Inu have unique personalities. The Shiba Inu is spirited and energetic, with a curious nature and love for exploration and play.

Chows, while less exuberant, enjoy playtime in their own way with a more relaxed and dignified approach. Each dog’s individual personality greatly influences their level of playfulness, and providing mental stimulation through interactive toys and engaging activities is crucial for their overall well-being.

Are Chow Chow Good Family Dogs?

Chow Chows are often perceived as aloof but can become loving and loyal with early socialization and training. They are incredibly protective of their families and make excellent watchdogs.

Chow Chows have a natural affinity for children, but it’s important to teach children how to interact appropriately with them. While they may appreciate alone time, they still enjoy spending quality time with their human family members.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Trainability

Chow Chows and Shiba Inus have unique characteristics that affect their trainability. Chow Chows, with their independent nature, can be challenging to train. Shiba Inus are highly intelligent but sometimes stubborn. Both require consistent positive reinforcement training.

Are Chow Chow or Shiba Inus Harder to Train?

Chow Chows may be more difficult to train due to their independent nature and stubbornness, while Shiba Inus are known for their strong-willed personalities and independent thinking. Both breeds benefit from early socialization and obedience training, as well as consistency and positive reinforcement techniques.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Life Expectancy

It’s important to consider the average lifespan of different dog breeds when choosing a furry friend. Chow Chows typically live 9-15 years, but with proper care, some can live up to 17-18 years. Shiba Inus have a lifespan of 12-16 years and are known for their spunky personalities and good health.

Remember that individual dogs may vary depending on various factors.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Prey Drive

Both Chow Chows and Shiba Inus possess instincts related to prey drive; however, Shibas tend to exhibit a higher intensity due to their hunting background. Each individual dog can vary in their level of intensity, but proper training and socialization can help manage their instincts and minimize potential issues.

Are Chow Chow or Shibas Better With Other Pets?

Chow Chows and Shiba Inus have varying tendencies when it comes to getting along with other pets. Chow Chows can be aloof or territorial around other animals due to their independent nature and protective behavior towards their family.

Proper socialization from an early age is crucial. Shiba Inus, on the other hand, are more sociable and can get along well with other pets if introduced properly. Every dog is an individual, and their compatibility with other pets can vary based on factors such as personality, upbringing, and previous experiences.

Careful monitoring and gradual introductions are important for a harmonious relationship between pets.

Are Chow Chow or Shibas Better With Kids?

Chow Chows, known for their independence, can be aloof with strangers, including kids, but can form strong bonds with proper socialization. Meanwhile, Shiba Inus are playful and excellent companions for older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs.

However, supervision and teaching kids basic dog etiquette is crucial for both breeds to coexist harmoniously with children.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Intelligence

Both the Chow Chow and Shiba Inu are intelligent breeds, but have unique personalities and tendencies that affect their trainability and problem-solving skills. Consistent training and positive reinforcement can help unlock their full potential as intelligent and obedient companions.

Chow Chow Vs Shiba Inu: Popularity

Both the Chow Chow and the Shiba Inu have dedicated fan bases. The Chow Chow, with its distinctive lion-like appearance, has been a companion to nobles and aristocracy for centuries.

The Shiba Inu, known for its fox-like features and spirited personality, has gained popularity recently. Both breeds have earned recognition from kennel clubs, but Chows are more popular in terms of sheer numbers.

However, popularity should not be the sole factor in choosing a furry companion.

Chow Chow Vs. Shiba Inu: How Much Do They Cost?

Chow Chows and Shiba Inus are unique breeds, each with their own price tags. The cost of a Chow Chow ranges from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on factors like pedigree, show quality, and breeder reputation.

Meanwhile, a Shiba Inu from a reputable breeder costs around $1,000 to $2,500. It’s vital not to skimp on price when it comes to these adorable pups, as investing in a healthy and well-socialized pup will save you potential medical bills down the line.

Additionally, both breeds require high-quality dog food, regular grooming, and routine vet visits for vaccinations and check-ups. Adopting from shelters or rescue organizations is also an option.

Conclusion: Should You Get a Chow Chow or Shiba Inu?

When deciding between a Chow Chow and a Shiba Inu as a pet, there are several factors to consider. Both breeds have unique characteristics and requirements, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and lifestyle.

The majestic Chow Chow might be the perfect choice for those seeking a larger, more laid-back companion that thrives in calm environments. On the other hand, the Shiba Inu is ideal for those who prefer an active and spirited dog with a bit of mischief in their personality.

Shibas are playful and intelligent but require firm training to channel these traits effectively. Both breeds have their pros and cons when it comes to compatibility with children or other pets in the household. Owning any breed of dog is a long-term commitment that requires time, effort, patience, and resources.

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