Airedale Terrier vs Shiba Inu

Terrier · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Airedale Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 23 lbs for the Shiba Inu.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.
  • The Airedale Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierShiba Inu
Group
TerrierNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
EnglandJapan
Height (male)
23"14.5–16.5"
Height (female)
22"13.5–15.5"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs23 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years13–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an alert, active, attentive small Spitz — Japan's most popular national dog and the original 'doge' meme. Originally from Japan, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 23 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, active, attentive.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies