Shiba Inu vs Corgi: 5 Key Differences

When it comes to popular and adorable dog breeds, there’s a lot to learn about the Shiba Inu vs Corgi. Both of these dogs are notoriously entertaining and beloved around the world, but how are these two dogs breeds similar, and what sets them apart from one another when many people consider them equally cute? 

In this article, we will compare and contrast all of the similarities and differences between Shiba Inus and Corgis so that you can learn how to tell them apart. We will also address their ancestral differences as well as their behavioral quirks. That way, you can have a full understanding of both of these breeds. Let’s get started and talk about them now! 

Comparing Shiba Inu vs Corgi

Key Differences Between Shiba Inu vs Corgi

There are many key differences between Shiba Inus and Corgis. The average Shiba Inu is taller than the average Corgi, but Corgis weigh more than Shiba Inus on average. The coat of the Shiba Inu is much fluffier in appearance compared to the coat of the Corgi. While Corgis are well known for their farming and herding behavior, Shiba Inus are regarded as hunting dogs. But there are even more differences than this. 

Let’s discuss all of these comparisons in more detail now. 

Shiba Inu vs Corgi: Size

You can easily tell the difference between a Shiba Inu and a Corgi based on their size. For example, Corgis are well known for their short and thick legs, while Shiba Inus have longer and more narrow legs in comparison. This leads to a height difference between these two breeds, as Corgis only reach 10 to 12 inches tall, while Shiba Inus reach 13 to 16 inches tall. 

However, even though Shiba Inus are taller than Corgis, they weigh less than the average Corgi overall. For example, Corgis weigh anywhere from 22 to 35 pounds, while Shiba Inus weigh 17 to 23 pounds on average. The Shiba Inu is a smaller dog than the Corgi, though both dogs are ultimately similar in size. 

Shiba Inu vs Corgi: Appearance

The most popular color for the Shiba Inu and the Corgi has to be a mix of red and white. However, this is where their similar appearances end. Both breeds are found in other colors, including black, tan, and white. Overall, the fur of the Shiba Inu is much fluffier than the fur of the Corgi, though Corgis have an incredibly thick double coat known for its shedding. 

Both of these dogs also have erect ears, though the ears of the Corgi are much larger and rounder than the triangular shaped ears of the Shiba Inu. One of the main differences in the physical appearances of these two dogs is the fact that Shiba Inus have fluffy and curly tails, While most Corgis have their tails docked. However, Cardigan Welsh Corgis have long and luxurious tails that don’t curl. 

Shiba Inu vs Corgi: Ancestry and Breeding

There is a vast difference in the ancestry of the Shiba Inu versus the ancestry of a Corgi. For example, Corgis were originally bred in the Welsh countryside, while Shiba Inus are a native dog breed from Japan. Both of these breeds are fairly old, if not ancient, but they were bred for different purposes. Let’s talk more about that now.

You may already know this, but Corgis are capable farmhands and herding dogs, while Shiba Inus were originally bred for hunting and taking down a variety of game. This makes their personalities and ancestry very different from each other. 

Shiba Inu vs Corgi: Behavior

Both the Corgi and the Shiba Inu are notorious for their alert and present personalities. They are both known for barking, whether it be as watch dogs or simply because they have something to say. However, the average Corgi is much friendlier compared to the average Shiba Inu. Shiba Inus enjoy spending time with their family, but they do not enjoy strangers or other dogs, while Corgis tend to gravitate toward other people and animals. 

Additionally, Shiba Inus are extremely intelligent and known for being stubborn, while Corgis are eager to please and easier to train given their high food motivation and desire for praise. However, every dog has their own unique personality, so keep this in mind if you plan on adopting either of these two breeds! 

Shiba Inu vs Corgi: Lifespan

The final difference between Shiba Inus and Corgis is their lifespan. Both of these dogs live a similar life, though Shiba Inus live slightly longer than Corgis on average based on the amount of health issues that most Corgis have. Shiba Inus live an average of 12 to 15 years, while corgis live an average of 11 to 14 years.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Natalia Fedosova/Shutterstock.com