Shiba Inu vs Yorkshire Terrier

Non-Sporting · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Shiba Inu is the larger breed at 23 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Yorkshire Terrier.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Yorkshire Terrier sheds less.
  • The Yorkshire Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitShiba InuYorkshire Terrier
Group
Non-SportingToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
JapanEngland
Height (male)
14.5–16.5"7–8"
Height (female)
13.5–15.5"7–8"
Weight (male)
23 lbs7 lbs
Weight (female)
17 lbs7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
13–16 years11–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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.

About the Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a feisty, brave, tomboyish toy terrier with a glamorous floor-length silk coat. Originally from England, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish.

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Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies

Yorkshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Liver shunt
  • Dental disease