Japanese Inu dog breeds. Akita Inu and Shiba Inu: description of breeds, differences, standard, content features

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

Japanese dogs Akita Inu and Shiba Inu are breeds popular with breeders and lovers of four-legged friends. The pedigree of both breeds is rooted in ancient times and is closely connected with the history of Japan. The best Akita Inu and Shiba Inu puppies that meet the standards are still delivered from the Land of the Rising Sun.

The similarity of the two breeds often leads to the fact that people who do not have experience in dog breeding confuse them with each other. In fact, these are two completely different breeds of Japanese dogs: Akita Inu and Shiba Inu differ both in appearance and in character. We offer you to understand the features of the breeds of four-legged pets and understand which puppy is right for you.

Description of Akita Inu dogs

This breed is chosen not only because of its exterior. Such a dog is an indicator of success and the owner's goal is to demonstrate an attitude to history andcultural values. This is largely due to the role played by Akita Inu dogs in the Russo-Japanese War and their natural origin.

Origin of the breed

A feature of the Akita Inu, which determines its high value as a domestic breed, is that no selection was used to breed it. Dogs began to live with humans as a result of a long process of domestication, retaining their natural features. For cynologists and dog breeders, the value of non-artificially bred breeds is incredibly high.

The Akita Inu breed is more than eight thousand years old: archaeologists first discovered the remains of dogs in the burial places of primitive people. Originally this Japanese breed was intended for protection. Dogs lived in rich houses and were considered a kind of indicator of the high status of the owner. We althy Japanese gave their pets separate rooms, dressed them in the best clothes and assigned a staff of servants to meet the needs of their pets. At night, adult Akita Inu guarded the homes of their owners, warned of the intrusion of strangers and were very aggressive towards strangers trying to enter protected areas.

The rank status of the Akita Inu and its noble past make the breed more valuable than the similar Shiba Inu, and it costs many times more. Changes in the state order in Japan have made Akita Inu more accessible to a wide layer of citizens, but the title of dogs of we althy people, enshrined in centuries of history, has left its mark on the price of puppies.

The wide distribution of the Akita inu across the country has significantly increasedthe number of the breed, improving the exterior of dogs that have become more hardy, quick-witted and strong. Cynologists and dog breeders carefully monitored the purity of the breed, crossing only purebred representatives.

Military history of dogs

Dogs with high intelligence, dexterity, power, trained to protect the life and property of their owners, attracted the attention of people not only in peacetime, but also in wartime. Akita Inu participated in the fighting along with the Japanese, defending their masters to the last.

In military conditions, the endurance and agility of dogs did not always save them, which led to the almost complete destruction of the breed. The number of Akita Inu was declining daily, and by the end of the war there were single specimens that were valued by dog breeders worth their weight in gold. The breed began to be considered not just a rank, but a heroic one due to participation in the war. Breeders diligently increased the number of dogs and achieved incredible success in this. The losses suffered by the Akita Inu in the war were more than compensated for by the birth of purebred puppies who found loving and devoted owners.

Character traits

Degree is a hallmark of the Akita Inu. Loyal but proud dogs are ready to give their lives for their masters. Akita Inu in the apartment is by no means a cute, fluffy toy, ready to be worn with children. Being excellent watchmen, they can act as nannies, but only for children of primary school age, and not for toddlers. They will not react with aggression to children's provocations,but they will not tolerate inappropriate behavior in their opinion and will simply go away from the offender. However, among the dogs that protect children, they have no equal, so the Akita Inu can really be trusted with a child.

The breed does not show aggression either to relatives or to people. Akita will not pay attention to the bullying cat or dog, but will simply pass by. The only exception when a dog can show cruelty and aggression is an attack on the owner or his property. The pet will fight to the last, protecting what is expensive and should - it is thanks to this that the Akita Inu was taken to war.

Akita Inu is an excellent companion for those who prefer calm, peaceful and loyal dogs. The breed is also perfect for lovers of Japan, its culture and history.

Appearance

Almost all representatives of the breed meet the standards: Akita Inu are distinguished by a compact physique and well-developed muscles. A short and flat muzzle makes dogs look like bears, a dense physique - like wolves.

Features of maintenance and care

Akita Inu are picky in care, but their maintenance requires certain features to ensure maximum comfort for pets. First of all, it affects nutrition. The original Japanese origin of the breed affects the intolerance of fatty meats. The digestive system of dogs is adapted to certain foods, including fish, rice, vegetables, seafood, and fruits. Mostly the pet's menu should consist oflisted ingredients, but may include chicken, lean veal and beef, cereals, dairy products, and broths.

Akita Inu is forbidden to give flour and bakery products, fatty meat, lard and sweets. Dry food is also not recommended - its use can adversely affect the dog's digestive tract. It can only be given in small amounts and soaked in milk or water.

Akita Inu's daily diet should consist of 20% protein, while carbohydrates are preferred. In addition to the standard diet, seasonal courses of therapy with microelements and multivitamins are carried out.

Akita is a breed eager for walks: the longer they are, the better. The dog should run without a leash at least once a week, relieving the tension that has accumulated while sitting in the apartment. The ideal option is active games with the owner.

Minimum duration of walks - one hour, frequency - twice a day. It is advisable to walk the dog away from the roads and city limits, in the fresh air. The abundance of oxygen and regular physical activity will have a positive effect on the appearance of the pet - the coat will shine and shine, the bones and muscles will improve.

The dog needs hair care: it is combed out against the growth of hair with different combs three times a week. The frequency of the procedure increases during the seasonal molt up to one or two times a day; the exact amount depends on the characteristics of the dog.

Akita Inu bed should be made of easy-to-clean natural fabrics. It should be placed in a passable place, from where everything is perfectly visible.rooms and entrances / exits from them - so the dog will be able to control the situation and satisfy the instinct of the guard. The personal place of the dog should not be located near open windows and heaters.

Akita Inu needs to be washed periodically. Twice a week, the pet's muzzle is wiped with a damp cloth, and once a week, the ears are cleaned with a damp cotton pad or napkin. You shouldn't wash your dog too often - 2-3 times a year is enough.

Akita Inu cost

The price of Akita Inu puppies depends on their pedigree, the nursery in which they were born and raised, compliance with breed standards. The average cost of a dog in Russia is about 10 thousand rubles, but it can be several times higher depending on the criteria mentioned.

Shiba Inu: breed description

Now about these dogs. The external similarity of Japanese dog breeds raises many questions about what is the difference? Shiba Inu and Akita are different breeds, differing from each other in origin, character and appearance.

Origin

The history of Japanese Inu dog breeds goes back thousands of years: only the Sibe is about two thousand years old. The breeding of this particular breed was carried out by Japanese monks, who set themselves the goal of protecting and protecting the monasteries. At the same time, the dogs had to be small and silent - it was these qualities of the Inu dog breed that were considered important for maintaining peace and quiet in the monastery.

In addition, the dog required physical endurance, reaction speedand dexterity. All qualities were required to successfully fulfill the duties of a hunter, and not just a guard.

Japanese Inu dog breed is considered not just a watchdog, but also a hunting one. The monks of the Land of the Rising Sun needed a combination of these two qualities. The purity of the blood of the breed bred by the selection method was devoutly kept and maintained: Sibu were bred only in monasteries. Originally, this breed was considered a monastery, which is why ordinary citizens of Japan could not get such a pet.

Somewhat later, the breed of Inu dogs - Shiba - became ubiquitous, and many people started it to protect the territory, however, restlessness, ardor of character and the desire to hunt provoked outbreaks of aggression in the dog, which entailed a danger to owners and family members. Today, both breeds of native Japanese dogs are very popular due to their character traits and the convenience of keeping in an apartment.

Character traits

The character of the Shiba is largely determined by its hunting nature: dogs are agile, agile and very playful. Being very active even in adulthood, representatives of the Inu dog breed easily get into fights with other dogs, are often in an excited state, and are very aggressive towards animals and people that threaten the owner. Being very loyal, Shiba stands to the last, protecting "their" from offenders. A violent temper does not affect the attitude towards children, although you should not expect manifestations of tenderness from the dog: he prefers games more. If the child annoys the siba, then she will simply leave the room,but will not show aggression.

The hunting potential of Inu dogs is fully compensated by active, long walks. This helps to neutralize the aggressiveness of the pet, so that he becomes more good-natured and easily converges with people. Sibs have a developed intellect, which is often used for arrogant and cunning begging for sweets from the owner. Inu dogs are ideal companions for families with small children.

An interesting feature of the character of the Shiba Inu breed is a reverent attitude towards toys. In no case should they be taken away: the pet itself will bring its owner's favorite trinket in order to play. This is how her hunting instinct manifests itself: a dog associates a toy with prey.

Exterior

Despite its compact size, the Shiba is a hardy, strong and robust dog. During the hunt, she can kill not only a bird, but also a larger animal, inflicting deep wounds and holding her until the hunter arrives.

Features of care

What is the difference between Shiba Inu and Akita in care? Due to their common origin, both breeds have similar dietary preferences. Dog breeders do not recommend feeding dogs fatty meat and dry food - this can adversely affect the he alth of the animal and lead to serious illnesses.

The Shiba's walking routine is identical to that of the Akita: daily active exits lasting at least an hour and a half are required. A few times a week, the dog should walk off-leash.

Shiba's thick coat requires frequent brushing. Duringseasonal molting, you have to scratch your pet every day, as a standard - two to three times a week. To do this, they resort to plastic combs and metal combs.

In other respects, caring for a Shiba is no different from caring for an Akita Inu; the bed of a four-legged pet should be located in a place with good visibility. The only problem that the owner may face and which, however, is easily solved by training the Shiba Inu, is the dog's craving for shoes and their destruction.

Chiba likes to take shoes around the apartment and gnaw. You can solve the problem by buying a quality toy that the dog could carry around.

Shiba cost

The price of Shiba puppies is several times higher than Akita Inu, which is associated with different aspects: pedigree, appearance, color of Shiba Inu. In a professional kennel, you can buy a dog for 30-50 thousand rubles.

Comparative analysis of external characteristics

In 1992, cynologists and breeders around the world came to a consensus regarding the standards of Shiba Inu and Akita Inu, compiling a list of parameters that symbolize purebredness and conformity to the breed.

Exterior	Parameters of an adult Akita Inu	Parameters of an adult Shiba Inu

Height (height at withers)	60 – 70 cm	35 – 40 cm
Weight	30 - 40 kg - Akita weight -inu	8 – 10 kg
Color	Two-tone, but dominated by a dark shade. There are light spots on the belly, chest, paws and the inside of the tail. The following color options are allowed: black and white; red-white; black and red; black and steel The color of females and males can be the same. Puppies are most often born light; their fur thickens and changes color as they mature	Shiba is similar in color to Akita; the exceptions are individuals with a unique "sesame" color. This coloring visually increases the volume of the dog's body due to the pronounced ripples on the back. Multiple color mixing options are allowed: black and white; black and red; black and steel; red-white; red and steel
Muzzle shape	Wide, pointed, fox-like. The nose is black, cold in a he althy individual, the teeth are neat, small, the lips are thin	Wide pointed muzzle. Powerful jaws, thin lips, medium sized pointed teeth
Eye color	Dark brown	Brown
Ear shape	Triangular, pointed ears	Triangular, pointed ears
Case	Narrow chest, short neck flows smoothly into the sternum. Abdomen strongly drawn in	The short neck blends smoothly into the sternum. Body is not wide
Tail	Stuck up, bent into a ring, rather long	Curled into a ring, very fluffy
Legs	Straight, short. The hind legs are higher in the thigh than the front ones	Straight, short, well muscled. Front and back are the same length. Paws are wide, massive
Wool	Hard, thick coat with soft and thick undercoat	Dense, hard and resilient coat. The undercoat is more voluminous

Deviation from the standards accepted by cynologists and dog breeders indicates the mixing of Inu dogs with each other or with other breeds. The purebredness of the selected individual is easily checked by the pedigree, which must be accompanied by every puppy purchased from official kennels.

Which dog to choose?

Both Japanese dog breeds have their advantages, but when choosing a four-legged pet, you should rely on several criteria:

1. Having children in the family.
2. Preferred dog temperament: playful, active, calm.
3. Amount of time that can be spent on daily walks.
4. Dog size.
5. Estimated amount allocated for the purchase of a pet.

Based on the above criteria, a specific breed is selected - Shiba Inu or Akita Inu. Each of them is unique, but both combine love for people, excellent hunting and guarding instincts, devotion and the ability to protect the owner in the event of an attack onhim.

Which breed is suitable for keeping on the street, which - in the apartment?

There are practically no equals in terms of activity and sociability of the Shiba Inu. Regular physical activity will help keep the apartment in order and keep your pet in excellent shape. The excess energy of the shiba will be directed to local destruction and gnawing of everything that gets on her tooth. Dogs begin to gnaw on various things not because of harmfulness and the desire to mischief, but because they want to play with the owner.

When keeping Shiba in the yard, it is necessary to take into account the fact that this breed does not tolerate collars and leashes. It is undesirable to keep a dog on a chain, despite the fact that it is prone to escape, otherwise it can provoke aggression. An aviary or yard is possible only under one condition: the owner must give the pet the necessary level of attention and communication.

Akita Inu is much better suited for apartment maintenance. They also need regular physical and mental exercise to keep fit and release excess energy, but they are much less likely to misbehave. Akita is able to spend most of the time in her corner with its competent equipment with interesting toys and a soft bed.

Aviary content immediately increases the requirements for the comfort of the dog: it is necessary to build a warm and spacious booth, a large area for walking and a high fence. Akita Inu will feel the love and care of the owner only if these conditions are met.

Who will suit the Akita Inu, and who will the Shiba?

The above features of bothbreeds, their differences cannot but affect the maintenance and training of dogs. When choosing a particular dog - Shiba or Akita - they rely not only on the features of its content, but also on the character of the future owner. For example, the Akita Inu is the perfect loyal friend who would be a great fit:

• A strong-willed and strong person, often an introvert, as this breed makes excellent companions who feel great in the company of people.
• A person who has the time and resources to take care of himself as the Akita requires care, quality food, attention, active play and a large area.
• To a leader who won't run into trouble when training a dog. Akita Inu will not listen to someone who does not become an authority for her.

As the first dog, you should not start an Akita puppy: the upbringing of such a dog begins with young claws, and amateurs may not be able to cope with this. However, the owners of such pets are the proud owners of loyal and intelligent dogs.

Four-legged lovers, when considering the Shiba Inu variant, must take into account completely different criteria and nuances of content. This breed is ideal for those people who:

• Prefers an active lifestyle as the Shiba loves long walks, exercise and outdoor play.
• Loves cats. Shiba Inu in habits and appearance is very similar to cats - the same affectionate and cleanliness, at times - independent.
• Able to put up with pet curiosity and inquisitiveness. Sibu beckons all the unknown, soshe is not averse to exploring new territory and rushing off for something unidentified and interesting.

Both breeds require the attention and care of the owner. Japanese breed dogs are very sociable, and a lack of response from the owner can lead to lethargy and illness. Both the Shiba and the Akita become devoted family friends and repay the love of their owners with love.