Shiba Inu vs Corgi: How Do These Canines Compare?
Published: Last updated: by Jessi LarsonDeciding between two popular pups, the Shiba Inu vs Corgi, may be tougher than it seems. How do the breeds compare?
Though both dogs are very charming choices for new and experienced dog owners alike, there are many aspects where they differ, which can be an important deciding factor for many.
So in what ways are they different? And how are they similar? The Shiba Inu vs Corgi debate starts now!
Shiba Inu vs Corgi
To fully understand how the two breeds compare, we’ll review their appearance, temperament, training and grooming needs, and overall health.
This will give you a full picture of the Shiba Inu vs Corgi.
Before we get started, however, one important note: For the Corgi, we’re specifically talking about the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the most popular and recognizable Corgi breed.
Another version is the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. It’s a wonderful dog breed but not nearly as popular as the Pembroke Welsh. Here are the differences between the two.
Appearance
When it comes to height, the Shiba Inu is noticeably taller than the Corgi, measuring up to 17 inches. The Corgi, on the other hand, has much shorter legs and can only grow up to 12 inches.
Despite their shorter height, the Corgi can in fact weigh more than the Shiba Inu. The breed averages 22-30 pounds. The Shiba Inu, on the other hand, only weighs 18-24 pounds.
With these dimensions, it’s not surprising the Shiba is a taller and leaner dog than the Corgi. As for the Corgi, the breed is of course recognized for its low-riding build. Let’s face it, those short, stubby legs are downright adorable!
Continuing the Shiba Inu vs Corgi comparison, both breeds have erect ears but they vary in appearance. The Shiba’s ears are a bit smaller whereas the Corgi’s ears are bigger and taller.
Another key difference is the tail. The Shiba sports a curled tail that curls upward toward its back. For the Corgi, this is where things get interesting. The Pembroke Corgi actually does not have a tail! (The Cardigan Welsh version, however, does have a long, fluffy tail, which is a key difference between the breeds.)
As for fur, the Shiba Inu has a double coat that includes a coarse and straight outer coat and a thick, fluffy undercoat. The breed can be found in a variety of colors, including black sesame, sesame, red, black and tan, and cream.
Though the Shiba’s fur does not tangle or become matted, they do shed very frequently, so have your lint-rollers on hand.
In comparison, the Corgi also has a double coat but with a relatively longer outer coat. Colors include red, sable, fawn and tri-colored.
Temperament
The Shiba Inu is an intelligent dog with a very independent and strong-willed spirit. In fact, thanks to their aloof, self-reliant personality and fastidious grooming habits, it’s been said that the Shiba is a cat in a dog’s body.
Originally bred for hunting, the Shiba Inu is alert, active and always on the move. Their superb agility makes them excellent runners – which is why they should always be on a leash or in an enclosed space.
One of the least affectionate dog breeds, the Shiba often prefers to be by itself and do what it wants. They will warm up to their owners but are almost always standoffish to strangers.
In stark contrast to the Shiba Inu’s dominant hunter personality, the Corgi initially was bred to herd cattle and other livestock and is much more of a people-pleaser.
They love being the center of attention and are generally cheerful, trusting and outgoing. Corgi owners will tell you just how loyal and loving the breed is.
Like the Shiba Inu, the Corgi can be strong-willed and independent at times. And because they have high energy levels, it’s important that the breed gets plenty of exercise and has lots of room to play.
Funny enough, these tiny canines often act like they are the biggest dogs on the block. They are known to bark and protect their home like a guard dog – even though they’re less than a foot tall!
Training
The Shiba Inu vs Corgi debate continues to the topic of training. Both breeds are highly intelligent, which makes them easier to train.
But while these dogs are smart and trainable, making them follow you is another matter. Both of these breeds are highly independent and do what they want, when they want.
With this in mind, patience and persistence is the key to training both these breeds.
Being the more sociable and eager of the two, however, the Corgi is relatively easier to train than the Shiba Inu.
Since both of these breeds are a bit headstrong, it’s highly recommended that you train them in their earlier years since it will be tougher as they grow older.
Grooming
Grooming needs is another important factor to consider when comparing the Shiba Inu vs Corgi.
The Shiba Inu sheds a good amount, especially in the spring and fall seasons when the weather changes. Because of this, they need to be brushed regularly, about once a week.
As mentioned before, the Shiba is known for its self grooming habits – a rarity among dog breeds! Even so, they do need to be bathed by you occasionally.
Like all dog breeds, they need their nails trimmed regularly as well.
As for the Corgi, they are also big shedders and need to be brushed several times a week. Regular baths and nail trims are also important.
The Corgi doesn’t clean itself like the Shiba does, which means a little more work for you. So when comparing the Shiba Inu vs Corgi for grooming, the Shiba is less maintenance.
Health
The Shiba Inu has a lifespan of up to 16 years, while the Corgi can live up to 14. Both breeds are generally healthy, but there are a few health issues to watch out for in each breed
All Corgis have achondroplasia, better known as dwarfism, caused by having shorter legs. Though this is intentionally bred within Corgis, it can cause potential health problems later on.
Corgis also have an increased risk of getting Degenerative Myelopathy, which is a condition relating to the nerves. Its symptoms include muscle atrophy and full limb paralysis. It is an untreatable issue, but there are many ways to manage it.
Shiba Inus, on the other hand, tend to have vulnerable eyes and are prone to diseases such as Glaucoma (caused by fluid buildup) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (caused by genetics).
A common worry among all breeds, including the Shiba Inu and Corgi, is hip dysplasia, which is a disease of the hip that causes dogs to limp.
Diseases linked to their breed may come up at any time, so it is important to make sure your dog makes regular trips to the veterinarian to catch early symptoms of these potential diseases.
Final Thoughts: Shiba Inu vs Corgi
Who do you think won the Shiba Inu vs Corgi face-off? Did the Shiba Inu dominate, or did the Corgi get your attention?
If you’re looking for an independent, athletic dog with a striking appearance, the Shiba Inu is your breed. While the majority of dog breeds need a ton of attention, the Shiba is not one of them, which could be appealing to you.
On the other hand, if you want a more cuddly canine companion, then look to the Corgi. They are cheerful, affectionate and fun creatures in a low-riding body that’s doggone adorable.
Ultimately, both make wonderful pets, and you can’t go wrong with either one!
Shiba Inu vs Corgi Bonus Tip: How to Pick the Right Dog
When you’re looking for a dog but don’t know what breed to get, these nine easy questions can help quickly narrow down your search and find a four-legged friend who perfectly fits your lifestyle.
This guide will help you in the Shiba Inu vs Corgi debate and give you a clearer idea of which one is for you.
1. Why Do You Want a Dog?
First things first, let’s talk about why you want a dog. This will guide you more than you realize!
For example, do you love cuddling up on the couch and want a furball to curl up in your lap and keep you company? Or do you want an energetic and enthusiastic dog who fits your active lifestyle?
Stop for a minute, close your eyes and think about it.
2. What Type of Dog Did You Have Growing up?
Believe it or not, the dog (or dogs) you grew up with often have an impact on what type of dog you want when you’re older.
That’s certainly not to say you couldn’t pick a different type of dog by any means. It’s just that people often have a comfort level with the type of canine they were conditioned to growing up.
3. Do You Have Any Allergies?
Dogs can be awful for allergies. But fortunately, there are many hypoallergenic dog breeds that make it easier for allergies sufferers.
Always learn more about the breed before bringing it into your home.
4. Who’s in Your Household?
Another important thing to think about is who is in your household.
Is it just you? Or do you have a partner? Roommates? Children?
This is incredibly important to consider. Especially if you have little ones in the household.
5. Where Do You Live?
As you think about which dog breed is right for you, where you live is incredibly important.
It goes without saying that certain breeds just aren’t cut out for small spaces. For example, a Great Dane in a tiny apartment would be a disaster!
Both the Shiba Inu and Corgi do well in any sort of home. Just make sure they get lots of exercise and stimulation no matter where you are.
6. How Much Time and Energy Do You Have?
Dogs are A LOT of work. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. But some dogs require much more effort than others.
Potential pup parents should always make sure they have the time, energy and resources to care for a dog, no matter what the breed. But that level of care can increase depending on the dog.
Before making a decision regarding the Shiba Inu vs Corgi, make sure you understand their instincts and just how much mental and physical stimulation they’ll require.
7. What is the Dog’s Temperament?
Just like appearance, a pup’s temperament can vary greatly by breed. And it’s absolutely critical to find out how a dog will act based on their breed instincts.
Both the Shiba Inu and Corgi are smart and independent. The Shiba is more aloof and prefers to be by itself whereas the Corgi tends to be an affectionate people-pleaser.
8. How Much Does the Breed Cost?
Owning a dog isn’t cheap, but some breeds are more expensive than others. Especially for some of the rarer canines.
Cost is a consideration, and it’s always a good idea to understand the full picture before making a commitment.
Things to consider include the initial expense, vet bills, food, grooming and other expenses like daycare or boarding.
9. Breed Finder
And finally, try out our online breed selector and get a list of the best breeds for you and your lifestyle.
It allows you to enter details like where you live, who’s in your house, your climate, what size of dog you’re looking for and more. You’ll receive a list of breeds that will work for you.
This could settle the Shiba Inu vs Corgi debate once and for all.
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1 Comment
Ummm. Pembroke Corgis have tails. They’re docked early on