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Japanese Terrier vs Sheltie Inu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Nihon Teria or Sheltie Inu?

Compare the Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Nihon Teria or a Sheltie Inu? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Mikado Terrier, Kobe Terrier, Oyuki (Snowy) Terrier, Nihon Terrier, Nihon Teria, Nippon Terrier

Weight

What is the average weight of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?
7.0 pounds ( 3 kg )
20.5 pounds ( 9 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu
10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )
15.5 inches ( 39.4 cm )

Hypoallergenic

Are Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

Unfortunately, neither Japanese Terrier nor Sheltie 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 Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu dogs?
Active
Cheerful
Swift
Affectionate
Lively
Vigilant

Playful
Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Responsive
Affectionate
Lively
Gentle
Going
Fearless
Keen
Faithful
Charming

Shedding Level

Do Japanese Terriers shed more than Sheltie Inus, or which breed sheds more, Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus?

Japanese Terriers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Sheltie 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 Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

Japanese Terriers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Sheltie Inus aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds?
Smooth Fox Terrier, German Pinscher, Kobe Terrier

Shiba Inu and Shetland Sheepdog

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?
ACA = American Canine Association Inc.
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds first developed?
1600s

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu dogs?
Brown

Blue
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?
Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds?
White
Black
Pied

Black
Pied
Red
Brown
Sable
Cream

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds?

Japanese Terriers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

Sheltie Inus have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Japanese Terrier 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.

4-6 puppies per pregnancy

A Sheltie Inu can have a litter of 4-6 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

Japanese Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Sheltie Inus are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

Japanese Terriers 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 Sheltie 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 Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds?
Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Patellar Luxation
Canine Hip Dysplasia
Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
Ulcerative Dermatosis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?
Ear Infections
Patellar Luxation
Eye Problems

Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Corneal Dystrophy
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
vonWillebrand’s Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu breeds?
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Yearly Eye Exam
Yearly Physical Examination

Thyroid Tests
Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Blood Analysis
Electrocardiograph (ECG - measures rate and rhythm)
Hip and Elbow X-rays

Energy

How do the energy levels of Japanese Terriers and Sheltie Inus compare?

Japanese Terriers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Sheltie Inus are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Social Needs

Japanese Terrier vs Sheltie Inu social needs comparison

Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Japanese Terrier vs Sheltie Inu exercise need comparison.

Japanese Terriers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sheltie Inus need only a small amount of physical activity, ideal for busy or elderly people or those with limited space.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

Japanese Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Sheltie Inus sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Tendency to Bark

Do Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus bark more/less frequently?

The Japanese Terrier is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

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

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Japanese Terrier vs Sheltie Inu?

Roaming urge

Japanese Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu entertained?
Run playin

Catch treats, Tug-of-war, Catch, Hiking, Squeaky Toys

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus?

High

Japanese Terriers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Sheltie 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 Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu walk each week?

8 miles / week

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

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Sheltie Inu, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus require more exercise?

30 minutes

In general most Japanese Terriers usually need at least 30 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 Sheltie 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, Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus?

The Japanese Terrier is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Sheltie Inus 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.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu dogs?

Weekly

Japanese Terrier 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

Daily

Ideally, Sheltie Inu should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Japanese Terriers and Sheltie Inus?
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu in cups?

1 cups

Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu share the same recommended daily food intake of 1 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

$1.10 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Japanese Terrier is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

$1.30 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Sheltie Inu is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

$28 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Japanese Terrier is between $28 - $42. This makes an average of $336 - $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.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Sheltie Inu is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Japanese Terriers vs Sheltie Inus

Japanese Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

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

Sensitivity Level

How do Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

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

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Japanese Terrier vs Sheltie Inu?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

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

The Sheltie Inu is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

Child Friendly

Do Japanese Terriers or Sheltie Inus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

Cat Friendly

Do Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

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

Sheltie Inus are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

Japanese Terriers and Sheltie Inus are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

How do Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Japanese Terrier or Sheltie Inu?

Japanese Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

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

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Japanese Terrier and Sheltie Inu?

Japanese Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Sheltie Inus have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Japanese Terriers and Sheltie Inus compare?

Japanese Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Sheltie Inus are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

Common match-ups