What is the difference between a Norwegian Elkhound and a Shiba Inu?

The Norwegian Elkhound is 48–55 lbs, 20–21 in sized while the Shiba Inu is 17–23 lbs, 14–17 in sized. They differ in size (48–55 lbs, 20–21 in vs 17–23 lbs, 14–17 in), lifespan (12–15 years vs 13–16 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Norwegian Elkhound or Shiba Inu?

Norwegian Elkhound is generally good with kids. Shiba Inu is not typically good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Norwegian Elkhound or Shiba Inu?

The Norwegian Elkhound has a lifespan of 12–15 years while the Shiba Inu has a lifespan of 13–16 years.

Norwegian Elkhound vs Shiba Inu — Breed Comparison

About the Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is one of the oldest European breeds, with archaeological evidence dating its partnership with humans back over 6,000 years in Scandinavia. These medium-sized spitz-type dogs stand 19.5 to 20.5 inches tall and weigh 48 to 55 pounds, built for endurance in rugged terrain. Their dense, silver-gray double coat with black-tipped guard hairs and lighter undercoat provided vital insulation against harsh Nordic winters.

Temperament & Personality

Norwegian Elkhounds are bold, independent, and deeply loyal — bred to track moose and hold them at bay while alerting hunters with their distinctive bark. They are affectionate and playful with family members, including children, and possess a dignified confidence around strangers. Their independent nature means they think for themselves, which can be both endearing and challenging during training.

Pros

Hardy constitution with excellent stamina for hiking and outdoor adventures
Loyal and protective family companion with natural watchdog instincts
Adapts well to cold climates and enjoys winter activities
Relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years

Cons

Heavy seasonal shedding — blows coat twice yearly in massive amounts
Independent and stubborn, requiring patient and consistent training
High barking tendency — bred to bark while tracking game
Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and Fanconi syndrome

If you love the outdoors and want a steadfast Nordic companion, explore Norwegian Elkhound listings 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.

Norwegian Elkhound vs Shiba Inu