Rottweiler vs Shiba Inu

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 lbs (males) vs 23 lbs for the Shiba Inu.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Rottweiler sheds less.
  • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitRottweilerShiba Inu
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
GermanyJapan
Height (male)
24–27"14.5–16.5"
Height (female)
22–25"13.5–15.5"
Weight (male)
95–135 lbs23 lbs
Weight (female)
80–100 lbs17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–10 years13–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.

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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Rottweiler health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Bloat

Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies