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

This post contains affiliate links.

Deciding to bring a new furry companion into your life is always an exciting adventure. However, with so many breeds to choose from, it can be quite overwhelming trying to find the perfect match for you and your lifestyle. Two popular options that often catch the eye of potential dog owners are the Pomsky and the Shiba Inu.

Breed Comparison Table

BREED	Pomsky	Shiba Inu
Hypoallergenic?	No	No
Restricted Breed?	No	No
Coat Type	Double coat	Double coat
Grooming Needs	Daily brushing	Regular brushing, occasional hand stripping
Male Height	15-18 inches	17-19 inches
Male Weight	30-40 pounds	23-27 pounds
Female Height	14-17 inches	16-18 inches
Female Weight	25-35 pounds	20-24 pounds
Temperament	Playful, alert, loyal, friendly	Independent, loyal, protective, reserved
Energy Level	4/5	4/5
Exercise Needs	3/5	3/5
Trainability	3/5	3/5
Good For Novice Owners	2/5	4/5
Amount Of Shedding	4/5	4/5
Easy To Groom	2/5	4/5
Prey Drive	4/5	3/5
General Health	3/5	3/5
Tolerates Being Alone	1/5	5/5
Tolerates Cold Weather	5/5	4/5
Affectionate With Family	5/5	4/5
Kid-Friendly	2/5	3/5
Dog Friendly	3/5	3/5
Friendly Toward Strangers	3/5	3/5
Tolerates Hot Weather	3/5	3/5
Intelligence	4/5	4/5
Lifespan	12 to 15 years	12 to 16 years
Popularity	>200	#42
Price	$2,000 – $5,000	$1,000 – 2,500

About Shiba Inus

Shiba Inus, also known as Shibas, are an ancient Japanese breed with a fox-like appearance and spirited personalities. They stand at 13.5-16.5 inches tall and weigh 17-23 pounds.

Despite their small size, they have a sturdy build and a plush double coat that comes in various colors. While they shed, they have low grooming needs. Shibas are intelligent and curious dogs but can be stubborn and reserved with strangers.

They require mental stimulation and careful training to prevent destructive behaviors. Due to their hunting heritage, they have a strong prey drive and should be kept on a leash or in a secure area while outdoors.

About Pomsky

The Pomsky is a popular hybrid breed resulting from a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky mix. They have a small to medium size, striking looks, and an energetic personality.

Their coat comes in various colors and requires regular grooming. Pomskies are playful, active, and intelligent dogs that need plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, training, and socialization.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Size and Weight

Pomskies, a cross between a Siberian Husky and a Pomeranian, weigh between 20 to 30 pounds, with some reaching up to 40 pounds. Shiba Inus, small dogs weighing between 17 to 23 pounds, have a sturdy build that exudes strength and agility.

While Pomskies tend to be slightly larger than Shiba Inus, individual variations within each breed can occur.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Coat Type

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus have a variety of coat types inherited from their parent breeds. Pomskies can range from fluffy to shorter fur, while Shiba Inus have a signature double coat that is thick and plush.

Pomskies require more frequent brushing due to their longer hair, while Shiba Inus need consistent brushing throughout the year as they shed heavily twice a year.

Are Either Breed Hypoallergenic?

Unfortunately, both Pomskies and Shiba Inus shed their fur regularly and can’t be classified as hypoallergenic. Dander, a common allergen, can trigger reactions in susceptible individuals.

Regular grooming can help reduce dander in the environment, but won’t completely eliminate it. While some individuals with mild allergies may tolerate these breeds better, those with severe allergies or asthma should consider other hypoallergenic breeds or consult an allergist before committing to either of these breeds.

Grooming Needs

Pomskies require regular brushing due to their thick coat and shedding, while Shiba Inus have a dense and waterproof coat that needs attention during shedding seasons.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Colors

Both the Pomsky and Shiba Inu offer a range of coat colors. Pomskies can have black, white, cream, gray, brown, or merle patterns, and may have blue or multi-colored eyes.

Shiba Inus are limited to red, sesame, black and tan, or cream. Breeders select parent dogs carefully to ensure each litter has a diverse range of colors. Some Pomskies’ coats may resemble those of their Husky ancestors more closely, while others may take after their Pomeranian lineage more subtly with solid or lighter shades.

Sesame-coated Shiba Inus are particularly cherished due to the intricate mix of red and black hairs creating an eye-catching effect. Ultimately, whether you prefer the broad spectrum of colors offered by Pomskies or are captivated by the classic elegance of Shiba Inu’s reddish hues is a matter of personal preference.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Diet

Pomskies require a protein-rich diet to support their active lifestyle, while Shiba Inus need to be monitored for overfeeding and weight gain. Both breeds benefit from high-quality dog food and additional supplements based on their individual needs. Consult with a veterinarian for specific requirements.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Health Problems

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus have their own health concerns. Pomskies may have hip dysplasia and eye problems, while Shiba Inus are prone to patellar luxation and allergies. Responsible breeding and regular vet check-ups are important for prevention and early detection of health issues.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Temperament

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus have unique temperaments. Pomskies are energetic, social, and affectionate, while Shiba Inus are independent, strong-willed, and self-assured. Both breeds require early socialization and training. Deciding between these two breeds should depend on personal preferences and lifestyle factors.

Which Breed Is More Playful?

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus are playful, but their play styles differ. Pomskies are energetic, love interactive toys and outdoor activities, while Shiba Inus have independent playfulness and enjoy exploring. Playfulness varies among individuals and depends on training and socialization.

Mental stimulation through play is essential for both breeds.

Are Pomsky Good Family Dogs?

Pomskies are an excellent choice for families looking for a playful, sociable, and adaptable dog. They thrive on attention, love being part of family activities, and get along well with both humans and other pets. Proper socialization is crucial to ensure they grow up into well-rounded adult dogs.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Trainability

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus have unique quirks that can make training challenging. Pomskies are easily distracted, while Shibas are independent and strong-willed. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key for both breeds.

Are Pomsky or Shiba Inus Harder to Train?

Pomskies are intelligent and eager to please, but can be stubborn. Shiba Inus are independent thinkers and may need creative methods to stay engaged. Early socialization and positive reinforcement are crucial for both breeds.

Pomskies catch on quickly to house training with a consistent schedule, but accidents can happen due to their small size. Shiba Inus are bred for hunting and have a strong sense of cleanliness, making house training easier.

Both breeds respond well to positive reinforcement, but Pomskies may occasionally ignore commands. Shiba Inus require tasks that engage their intellect and keep them mentally stimulated.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Life Expectancy

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus have relatively long lifespans, but there are several factors that can influence their lifespan, such as genetics, overall health, size, and health maintenance.

While Pomskies can live anywhere between 12 to 15 years, Shiba Inus tend to have a slightly longer life expectancy, ranging from 13 to 16 years. However, individual dogs are unique and may exceed or fall within these averages.

Proper care and regular veterinary check-ups can greatly enhance the chances of your furry companion living a long and happy life.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Prey Drive

Prey drive is a dog’s natural inclination to chase and catch small animals. It is essential to consider when selecting a breed, particularly if you have other small pets in your home or live in an area with a lot of wildlife.

Pomskies and Shiba Inus differ in their prey drive. Pomskies, a cross between Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies, are known for their strong prey drive. This implies that Pomskies may be more inclined to pursue small animals like squirrels or rabbits.

On the other hand, Shiba Inus were initially bred to hunt small game in Japan. They have a strong prey drive and may be more prone to chasing smaller animals. While Shibas are generally well-matched for families, their hunting instincts can make them less dependable around smaller pets like cats or birds.

Are Pomsky or Shibas Better With Other Pets?

Both Pomskies and Shiba Inus have unique characteristics that can impact their interactions with other pets. Pomskies have a strong prey drive due to their Siberian Husky ancestry, while Shiba Inus have a dominant personality and territorial instincts.

Proper socialization and cautious introductions are essential for successful integration with other pets.

Are Pomsky or Shibas Better With Kids?

Both breeds have unique qualities that can make them great companions for kids. Pomskies, a mix of Pomeranian and Husky, inherit the playful and energetic nature of both parent breeds.

They are friendly and enjoy being around people, including children. However, Pomskies are generally small to medium-sized dogs, so they might not be as sturdy as larger breeds when it comes to rough play with boisterous kids.

It’s important to supervise interactions between Pomskies and young children to prevent accidental injuries. Shiba Inus have a more independent and somewhat aloof temperament compared to Pomskies.

They are generally good with older children who understand how to approach them politely and respect their boundaries. However, Shibas may not tolerate rough handling or excessive noise from younger kids.

Their reserved nature means they may prefer quieter environments or time alone occasionally. Ultimately, whether a Pomsky or Shiba Inu is better suited for your family will depend on the age of your children and their ability to interact responsibly with dogs.

Proper socialization of any breed with children from an early age, while also teaching kids how to appropriately handle and interact with dogs, is crucial to foster mutual respect and understanding between them. Parents or guardians should always supervise interactions between pets and children.

Teaching kids about proper pet care responsibilities will help create a harmonious environment where both dog and child can thrive together in companionship.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Intelligence

Both the Pomsky and Shiba Inu are intelligent and independent breeds, with the Pomsky being a cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky. While Pomskies inherit traits from both breeds, Pomeranians are known to be highly trainable.

On the other hand, Shiba Inus were originally bred as hunting dogs in Japan and possess excellent problem-solving skills, making them adaptable in various situations. It’s important to note that each dog is unique, and individual personalities can vary within each breed.

Owners should establish themselves as firm leaders through positive reinforcement training techniques to harness their intelligence effectively.

Pomsky Vs Shiba Inu: Popularity

Both the Pomsky and Shiba Inu have become popular dog breeds in recent years. Pomskies are adored for their cute looks and resemblance to smaller Siberian Huskies, while Shiba Inus are sought after for their unique fox-like features and independent nature.

Both breeds have gained significant followings on social media and forums, but it’s important to consider lifestyle and personality traits when selecting a furry companion.

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

When considering a new pet, cost is important. Pomskies and Shiba Inus are designer breeds in high demand, impacting their price.

Pomskies, a crossbreed of Pomeranians and Siberian Huskies, can cost between $2,000 – $5,000 on average, varying based on breeder’s reputation, lineage of parents, location, size, and markings.

Similarly, Shiba Inus, charming Japanese dogs with increasing popularity worldwide, can cost $1,000 – 2,500 on average, also dependent on breeder reputation and location. It’s important to note that initial costs are only a part of owning a pet, with ongoing expenses such as food, grooming, veterinary care, and training.

If budget is a major concern, consider adoption or rescue organizations for more affordable options.

Conclusion: Should You Get a Pomsky or Shiba Inu?

Both breeds have unique characteristics and quirks that can make them excellent additions to your family. If you want a smaller, playful, and affectionate dog, the Pomsky may be perfect.

However, they require more grooming. If you prefer an independent yet loyal companion with an air of regality, the Shiba Inu might be your ideal match. They are low-maintenance but may present some challenges when it comes to training.

Consider size, energy levels, trainability, temperament around kids or other pets, and potential health issues when making your decision. Research reputable breeders or consider adoption options.

Other Dog Breed Comparisons

Large Breeds

Medium Breeds

Small Breeds