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Bernese Mountain Dog vs Shiba Inu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Berner or Shiba?

Compare the Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Berner or a Shiba? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Berner Sennenhund, Berner, Bernese Cattle Dog
Japanese Small-Size Dog, Brushwood Dog, Shiba Ken, Shiba, Japanese Shiba Inu

Weight

What is the average weight of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?
97.5 pounds ( 44 kg )
23.0 pounds ( 10 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu
23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )
15.0 inches ( 38.1 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Bernese Mountain Dog has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Shiba Inu has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Hypoallergenic

Are Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Bernese Mountain Dog nor Shiba Inu are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu dogs?
Affectionate
Intelligent
Faithful
Loyal

Alert
Confident
Fearless
Going
Charming
Faithful
Keen

Shedding Level

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs shed more than Shiba Inus, or which breed sheds more, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus?

Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu dogs are heavy shedders, they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Choose a Bernese Mountain Dog if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Shiba Inus make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu dog breeds?
Switzerland

Japan

Ancestry

What are the origins of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds?
Molosser, Mastiff-type

Spitz

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds first developed?
Ancient Times

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?
Working (AKC:1937)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Non Sporting (AKC:1992)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds?
Black
Brown
White

Black
Red
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds?

Bernese Mountain Dogs have medium-length coats.

Shiba Inus have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?
Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?

7-10 puppies per pregnancy

A Bernese Mountain Dog can have a litter of 7-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Shiba Inu can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Bernese Mountain Dogs have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Shiba Inus are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The Bernese Mountain Dog breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Shiba Inu breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds?
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat
Histicytosis
Dental Disease
Meningitis
Obesity

Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Allergies
Epilepsy
Cerebellar Abiotrophy
Kidney Problems
Color Dilution Alopecia

Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Hip Dysplasia

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds?
Eye
Hip
Elbow
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Up:Uc Ratio For Kidney Function
CT Scan
Dental Examination
Allergy Tests

Hip
Knee
X-Rays
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Shiba Inus compare?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, these breeds may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Shiba Inu social needs comparison

Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Shiba Inu exercise need comparison.

The Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu breeds require a moderate amount of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are ideal for people who have a moderate amount of time to devote to their pets and enjoy regular physical activity themselves. They also make great family pets as they have the energy to keep up with children and the temperament to be great companions.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Bernese Mountain Dog drools quite a bit, consider a different breed if drool is unappealing.

Shiba Inu minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus bark more/less frequently?

Bernese Mountain Dogs bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Shiba Inu dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu a better guard dog?

These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Shiba Inu?

Roaming urge

Bernese Mountain Dog vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu entertained?
Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Exploring, Playing, Fetching, Smelling, Greeting, Jumping, Running, Cuddling, Rolling around, Sunbathing, Sniffing grass, Rolling, Walk, Bark, Play, Run, Pet, Lick, Chase, Fetch, Kiss, Shake, Eating Snacks, Nap, Soccer, Road trip, Tug-of-war

Sniff, Walk, Run, Hunt, Eating Snacks, Nap, Short walks, Rest, Groom, Meeting people, Walking, Shake, Sniffing, Dog Parks, Catch treats, Play, Hike, Play keep away, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Socializing, Sniffin, Playing, Running, Eating, Digging, Say hello, Hide & Seek, Napping, Car rides

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus?

Medium

Both Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu walk each week?

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Bernese Mountain Dog, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Shiba Inu, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus require more exercise?

60 minutes

Both Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus?

The Bernese Mountain Dog requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

The Shiba Inu has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu dogs?

Weekly

Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Bernese Mountain Dogs and Shiba Inus?
Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 90-120 pound (41 - 54 kg) Bernese Mountain Dog feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2 cups

For an average 20-26 pound (9 - 12 kg) Shiba Inu feed 2 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of a Bernese Mountain Dog is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Shiba Inu is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of a Bernese Mountain Dog is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Shiba Inu is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Bernese Mountain Dogs vs Shiba Inus

Bernese Mountain Dog is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Shiba Inus are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Shiba Inus have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Bernese Mountain Dog vs Shiba Inu?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Bernese Mountain Dogs can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Shiba Inus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Bernese Mountain Dogs or Shiba Inus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Shiba Inus have an average level of friendliness towards children.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Cat Friendly

Do Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Shiba Inus are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

{Bernese Mountain Dogs and Shiba Inus are average friendly towards other dogs. If they are raised with other dogs, they are likely to get along with them. And, if they are socialized properly from a young age, they will usually be great with other dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Bernese Mountain Dog or Shiba Inu?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Shiba Inus are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu?

Bernese Mountain Dog and Shiba Inu have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Shiba Inus compare?

Bernese Mountain Dogs are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Shiba Inus may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

Common match-ups