Shiba Inu vs Basenji: Best Apartment Dog Comparison

Shiba Inus and Basenjis are both medium-sized dogs with unique traits. They have distinct physical features and fascinating histories that set them apart from other breeds. Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between these two breeds.

Physical Characteristics

• Shiba Inus are compact dogs with a fox-like appearance. 
• They have a thick double coat that comes in colors like red, black and tan, or cream. 
• Their average height is 13-17 inches, and they weigh between 17-23 pounds.
• Basenjis are sleek and muscular dogs. 
• They have short, fine coats that are typically red, black, or brindle with white markings. 
• Basenjis stand 16-17 inches tall and weigh 22-24 pounds on average.

Personality and Temperament

Shiba Inus and Basenjis have unique personalities that shape their behavior as apartment dogs. Both breeds are known for their independent nature and strong-willed attitudes.

Character Traits

• Shiba Inus are alert and loyal dogs. 
• They can be affectionate with their families but often keep their distance from strangers. 
• These dogs have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals.
• Basenjis are also independent and can be stubborn. 
• They’re known for their intelligence and curiosity. 
• Like Shiba Inus, they have a high prey drive due to their hunting background.

Behavioral Tendencies

• Shiba Inus tend to be more vocal than Basenjis. 
• They may bark to alert you of strangers or unusual noises. 
• Basenjis, on the other hand, are known as “barkless” dogs. They make unique vocalizations called “yodels” instead.

Both breeds have high energy levels and need regular exercise. Without enough mental and physical stimulation, they may become destructive in your apartment.

Living Environment

Both Shiba Inus and Basenjis can adapt well to apartment living. These breeds are small and don’t need a lot of space to be happy.

• You’ll find that Shibas and Basenjis are quiet dogs.
• Regular walks and mental stimulation are key for both breeds. 
• Basenjis and Shiba Inus are clean dogs. 
• Both breeds can be good with children if raised with them. 
• When looking for a pet-friendly apartment, check the rules.

Remember, both dogs need training and socialization. This helps them behave well in an apartment setting. Your living environment should be safe for these curious dogs. They like to explore, so keep harmful items out of reach.

Training and Socialization

Both Shiba Inus and Basenjis can be challenging to train. They need consistent socialization from an early age. Different techniques work best for each breed.

Trainability Challenges

Shiba Inus and Basenjis are known for their stubbornness. This makes training more difficult than with other breeds. Shibas have a strong-willed nature and may ignore commands if they’re not interested. Basenjis are independent thinkers and can be easily distracted.

• You’ll need patience and persistence to train either breed. 
• Short, fun training sessions work best. 
• Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise. 
• Avoid harsh corrections, as these can make them less cooperative.

Remember that both breeds are intelligent. They can learn quickly when motivated. The key is finding what drives your dog and using it to your advantage.

Socialization Importance

Early socialization is crucial for both Shiba Inus and Basenjis. It helps prevent behavioral issues later in life. Start exposing your puppy to different people, animals, and environments as soon as possible.

• Basenjis may need more creative socialization approaches. 
• Shiba Inus also benefit from early socialization.

Training Techniques

For Shiba Inus, focus on leash training early. They have a strong prey drive and may try to chase small animals. Use positive reinforcement and be consistent with commands.

Basenjis respond well to clicker training. This method can help keep their attention during training sessions. Use high-value treats to motivate them.

Both breeds benefit from:

• Short, frequent training sessions
• Consistency in commands and rules
• Mental stimulation through puzzle toys
• Regular exercise to burn off energy

Avoid punishments or harsh corrections. These can damage your relationship with your dog and make training harder.

Health and Care

Basenjis and Shiba Inus have different health needs and care requirements. Both breeds need regular exercise and grooming, but they have unique health concerns to watch for.

Common Health Issues

• Basenjis may face eye problems and hip dysplasia. 
• They can also get a condition called Fanconi syndrome, which affects their kidneys.
• Shiba Inus might develop hip dysplasia too. They can also have eye issues and allergies.

Both breeds can live 12-15 years with good care. Regular vet check-ups are important to catch health issues early.

Exercise Needs

• Basenjis are very active dogs. 
• Take your Basenji for long walks or let them run in a fenced yard. 
• Shiba Inus need less exercise than Basenjis. 

Grooming Requirements

• Basenjis are easy to groom. 
• Brush them once a week to remove loose hair.
• They don’t shed much or have a strong dog smell because Basenjis clean themselves like cats.
• Shiba Inus shed more than Basenjis — they have a thick double coat that needs brushing a few times a week.
• During shedding seasons, brush your Shiba Inu daily.
• Both breeds need regular nail trims and teeth cleaning to stay healthy.

Size and Physical Needs

When choosing between a Shiba Inu and a Basenji for your apartment, size is an important factor to consider. Both breeds are relatively small, making them suitable for compact living spaces.

• Shiba Inus typically stand 13.5 to 16.5 inches tall at the shoulder. They weigh between 17 to 23 pounds. These compact dogs have a sturdy build and a fox-like appearance.
• Basenjis are slightly taller, measuring 16 to 17 inches in height. Their weight range is similar to Shiba Inus, usually between 22 to 24 pounds.

Both breeds have moderate exercise needs, but Basenjis tend to be more energetic. You should plan for at least an hour of daily physical activity for either breed. This can include:

• Walks
• Playtime in a secure area
• Indoor games

Remember that mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys and training sessions can help keep both breeds engaged and well-behaved in an apartment setting.

Behavioral Characteristics

Shiba Inus and Basenjis have distinct personality traits that affect their suitability as apartment dogs. Their behaviors impact noise levels, exercise needs, and protective instincts.

Vocalization and Barking

• Basenjis are known as the “barkless dog”. This doesn’t mean they’re silent. They make unique yodel-like sounds called “barooos.”
• Shiba Inus bark more than Basenjis. They have a sharp, high-pitched bark.
• Both breeds can be vocal in other ways — they might whine or howl when excited or seeking attention.

Hunting and Chasing Instincts

• Basenjis and Shiba Inus were bred as hunting dogs.
• Basenjis have a strong prey drive.
• Shiba Inus also have a chase instinct, but it’s often less intense than Basenjis.

Both breeds need secure leashes on walks. They might dart after squirrels or other small animals. In apartments, provide toys that satisfy their hunting instincts.

Guarding and Protection

• Shiba Inus are naturally alert and can make good watchdogs.
• Basenjis are also alert but less vocal in their guarding.
• Both breeds have confident personalities.

Neither breed is typically aggressive, but they can be territorial. Early training is key to manage these instincts in close quarters.