Dorkie vs Shiba Inu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Dorkie Terrier or Shiba?
Compare the Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Dorkie Terrier or a Shiba? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Dorkie Terrier
Japanese Small-Size Dog, Brushwood Dog, Shiba Ken, Shiba, Japanese Shiba Inu
Weight
What is the average weight of Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
77.5 pounds
( 35 kg )
23.0 pounds
( 10 kg )
Height
What is the average height of Dorkie and Shiba Inu
19.5 inches
( 49.5 cm )
15.0 inches
( 38.1 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
Dorkie has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.
Shiba Inu has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.
Hypoallergenic
Are Dorkies or Shiba Inus hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither Dorkie 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 Dorkie and Shiba Inu dogs?
Do Dorkies shed more than Shiba Inus, or which breed sheds more, Dorkies or Shiba Inus?
Dorkies shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.
Shiba Inus are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
Dorkie and Shiba Inu are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, these breeds are going to make sure everyone knows about it.
Origin
What is the origin of Dorkie and Shiba Inu dog breeds?
United States
Japan
Ancestry
What are the origins of Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds?
Yorkshire Terrier and Dachshund
Spitz
Breed recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize/register Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
American Canine Hybrid Club Designer Breed Registry Designer Dogs Kennel Club International Designer 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 Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds first developed?
1990
Ancient Times
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of Dorkie and Shiba Inu dogs?
Brown
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds?
Brown Black Red Blue
Black Red Cream
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds?
Dorkies have longer coats compared to most dogs.
Shiba Inus have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
13-15 puppies per pregnancy
A Dorkie can have a litter of 13-15 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.
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
Dorkies are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Shiba Inus are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.
Health Issues
Between Dorkie and Shiba Inu, which breed is more prone to health problems?
Dorkies typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.
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 Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds?
Hip Knee X-Rays Physical Examination Allergy Tests
Energy
How do the energy levels of Dorkies and Shiba Inus compare?
Dorkie 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
Dorkie vs Shiba Inu social needs comparison
Dorkie has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.
Shiba Inu has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Exercise Needed
Dorkie vs Shiba Inu exercise need comparison.
Dorkies need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.
Shiba Inus need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
Dorkie 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, Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
The Dorkie and Shiba Inu breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do Dorkies or Shiba Inus bark more/less frequently?
Dorkie dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.
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 Dorkie or Shiba Inu a better guard dog?
While Dorkie dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.
Shiba Inu dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: Dorkie vs Shiba Inu?
Roaming urge
Dorkie vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
Dorkie or Shiba Inu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Past times
What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Dorkie and Shiba Inu entertained?
Walking, Napping, Snuggling, Playing, Playing outside, Cudling, Running, Walk, Nap, Fetch, Tug, Balls, Walks, Reading, Tug-of-war, Bath time, Frisbee, Road trip, Soccer, Play, Chase, Off-leash, Eating Snacks, Shopping, High Five, Cuddling, Cows, Bird Dog, Playing fetch, Chasing
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, Dorkies or Shiba Inus?
Low
Dorkies are low-energy dogs. This breed make a great companion for a relatively inactive person. Dorkie dogs require a few short daily walks, and then they're happy snuggling next to you for the rest of the day.
Medium
Shiba Inus are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should Dorkie or Shiba Inu walk each week?
4 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Dorkie, it's at least 4 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 Dorkies or Shiba Inus require more exercise?
45 minutes
In general most Dorkies usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
60 minutes
In general most Shiba Inus usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Dorkies or Shiba Inus?
Dorkies require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.
The Shiba Inu has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for Dorkie and Shiba Inu dogs?
Weekly
Dorkie 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 Dorkies and Shiba Inus?
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Slicker Brush Comb Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to Dorkie or Shiba Inu in cups?
1 cups
For an average 7-12 pound (3 - 5 kg) Dorkie feed 1 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, Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
$1.10 - $1.40 / day
The average cost of a Dorkie is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 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, Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
$32 - $42 / month
The average per month expenses of a Dorkie is between $32 - $42. This makes an average of $384 - $504 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: Dorkies vs Shiba Inus
Dorkie and Shiba Inu have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.
Sensitivity Level
How do Dorkie 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: Dorkie vs Shiba Inu?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
Dorkies and Shiba Inus are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.
Child Friendly
Do Dorkies or Shiba Inus have a friendlier temperament towards children?
Dorkies are not the best choice for families with kids.
Shiba Inus have an average level of friendliness towards children.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
Cat Friendly
Do Dorkie or Shiba Inu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
Dorkies 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: Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
Dorkies are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.
Shiba Inus are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.
Pet friendly
How do Dorkie or Shiba Inu dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Dorkie or Shiba Inu?
They can be below average friendly around strangers, being keen of eye and sharp of tongue, and very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Dorkie and Shiba Inu may be friendly and outgoing, while others can be standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between Dorkie and Shiba Inu?
Dorkie 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 Dorkies and Shiba Inus compare?
Dorkies are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.
Shiba Inus may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.
