Border Terrier vs Shiba Inu

Terrier · Small vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Shiba Inu is the larger breed at 23 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Border Terrier sheds less.
  • The Border Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierShiba Inu
Group
TerrierNon-Sporting
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
EnglandJapan
Height (male)
13–15"14.5–16.5"
Height (female)
13–15"13.5–15.5"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs23 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 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.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)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
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

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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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies