Finnish SpitzVSShiba Inu
The Finnish Spitz and the Shiba Inu are both beautiful, fox-like spitz breeds with prick ears, curled tails, and bold, independent personalities rooted in primitive hunting heritage. The Finnish Spitz is Finland's national dog, bred to bark-point birds, while the Shiba Inu is Japan's most popular native breed. Here is a complete comparison of these two spirited northern breeds.
Last reviewed: June 2026
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Finnish Spitz | Shiba Inu |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ✓20–33 lbs, 15.5–20 in | 17–23 lbs, 13.5–16.5 in |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Trainability | ✓Moderate (independent) | Difficult (stubborn) |
| Shedding | Heavy (seasonal) | Heavy (seasonal) |
| Good With Kids | ✓Good | Fair |
| Good With Other Dogs | ✓Good | Fair (can be dominant) |
| Barking | Very High (bred to bark) | ✓Moderate |
| Life Expectancy | 13–15 years | ✓13–16 years |
| Apartment Living | Poor (very vocal) | ✓Good (quieter) |
| Price Range | ✓$1,000–$2,000 | $1,400–$3,500 |
✓ indicates advantage in this category. Tie = comparable.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Choose a Finnish Spitz if…
Choose a Finnish Spitz if you want an active, friendly hunting companion who is more social than a Shiba Inu and do not mind a very vocal dog in a rural or suburban setting.
Choose a Shiba Inu if…
Choose a Shiba Inu if you want the more widely available, cat-like fox-dog who is more suitable for apartments due to lower barking tendencies and is deeply loyal to one owner.
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Compare Pet Insurance QuotesFrequently Asked Questions
Why do Finnish Spitz bark so much?
Finnish Spitz were bred specifically to locate birds such as grouse and capercaillie and then bark continuously to alert hunters to the location of the treed bird — this barking behavior is called "bark pointing" and is a defining trait of the breed. They are actually evaluated in hunting competitions partly on the quality and frequency of their bark. This deeply ingrained instinct means Finnish Spitz bark frequently and loudly, making them unsuitable for apartments or noise-sensitive environments.
Which is more cat-like, Finnish Spitz or Shiba Inu?
Shiba Inus are more commonly described as cat-like — they are fastidiously clean, aloof with strangers, self-directed, and do not exhibit the eager-to-please behavior of most dog breeds. Finnish Spitz are more social and enthusiastic with their family while still being independent. The Shiba Inu's catlike self-sufficiency is one of its most distinctive and appealing traits to their devoted owners.
Are Finnish Spitz good family dogs?
Finnish Spitz can be good family dogs for active families with enough outdoor space for their exercise and vocalization needs. They are more family-oriented and socially warm than Shiba Inus and generally do better with children. However, their extreme barking tendency makes them challenging in suburban or urban environments. They are best suited to rural or semi-rural settings where their vocal nature will not disturb neighbors.
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