What is the difference between a Italian Greyhound and a Shiba Inu?

The Italian Greyhound is 7–14 lbs, 13–15 in sized while the Shiba Inu is 17–23 lbs, 14–17 in sized. They differ in size (7–14 lbs, 13–15 in vs 17–23 lbs, 14–17 in), lifespan (14–15 years vs 13–16 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Italian Greyhound or Shiba Inu?

Italian Greyhound is not typically good with kids. Shiba Inu is not typically good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Italian Greyhound or Shiba Inu?

The Italian Greyhound has a lifespan of 14–15 years while the Shiba Inu has a lifespan of 13–16 years.

Italian Greyhound vs Shiba Inu — Breed Comparison

About the Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound — a miniaturized version of the Greyhound — has been a prized companion of nobility for over 2,000 years, favored by the likes of Frederick the Great, Queen Victoria, and Catherine the Great. Standing 13–15 inches tall and weighing just 7–14 pounds, this dainty sighthound has a short, satiny coat in shades of fawn, cream, red, blue, black, and various combinations — always with an elegant, high-stepping gait that exudes refinement. Their slender, graceful build and deer-like appearance make them one of the most aesthetically striking toy breeds.

Temperament & Personality

Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, playful, and surprisingly mischievous — alternating between bursts of zoomie energy and hours of burrowing under blankets for warmth. They bond intensely with their owners and can be clingy — often insisting on being held, carried, or curled up in their person's lap. While sweet with family, they tend to be reserved or shy around strangers and may tremble when overstimulated or anxious.

Pros

Elegant, low-shedding coat that produces minimal dander — suitable for many allergy sufferers
Compact size and moderate exercise needs make them ideal apartment companions
Deeply affectionate and bonded to their owners — devoted lapdogs
Long lifespan of 14–15 years with proper care and dental maintenance

Cons

Extremely fragile bones — leg fractures are common, especially in puppies and young adults
Among the most difficult small breeds to housebreak — many owners resort to indoor potty solutions
Sensitive to cold — requires sweaters, coats, and warm sleeping arrangements year-round
Prone to severe dental disease — often require multiple tooth extractions by middle age

Searching for an elegant, loving companion in a tiny package? Browse Italian Greyhounds on Puplister.

About the Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is Japan's oldest and smallest native breed, originally bred to flush birds and small game in the dense mountain underbrush — "shiba" may refer to brushwood or the breed's red color, while "inu" simply means dog. These compact, agile dogs stand 13.5 to 16.5 inches tall and weigh 17 to 23 pounds, with a fox-like face, small triangular ears, and a curled tail. Their stiff, plush double coat comes in red, sesame, black and tan, or cream, with distinctive "urajiro" (cream to white ventral markings).

Temperament & Personality

Shiba Inus are bold, alert, and fiercely independent — often described as more cat-like than dog-like in their self-possession and fastidious grooming habits. They are loyal to their families but on their own terms, and their strong-willed nature means they do not blindly follow commands. Shibas are known for the infamous "Shiba scream" — a loud, distinctive vocalization produced when displeased or overjoyed — and they can be aloof with strangers and sometimes aggressive toward other dogs.

Pros

Naturally clean and almost cat-like — easy to housetrain and self-grooming
Compact, manageable size for apartments with adequate exercise
Loyal and devoted to their family once trust is established
Healthy breed with a long lifespan of 13 to 16 years

Cons

Extremely independent and stubborn — not recommended for first-time owners
Strong prey drive and unreliable recall make off-leash freedom risky
Can be possessive of food, toys, and territory (resource guarding)
Prone to allergies, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia

The Shiba Inu's spirited independence and striking looks have won fans worldwide — discover Shibas on Puplister.

Italian Greyhound vs Shiba Inu