Siberian Shiba vs. Cairn Terrier: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the Siberian Shiba is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Cairn Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier dogs?

Alert
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Outgoing
Gentle
Going
Fearless
Keen
Faithful
Charming

Active
Courageous
Intelligent
Assertive
Fearless

Shedding Level

Do Siberian Shibas shed more than Cairn Terriers, or which breed sheds more, Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers?

4 / 5

Siberian Shibas are heavy shedders, but regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote a healthy coat.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

2 / 5

Siberian Shibas aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier dog breeds?

United States

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier breeds?

Shiba Inu, Siberian Husky

Scottish Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Skye Terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

ACHC = American Canine Hybrid Club
DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

Date of Birth

When were Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier breeds first developed?

Unknown

1500s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier dogs?

Blue
Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier breeds?

Black
Fawn
Brown
White
Red
Pied
Gray

Cream
Black
Brindle
Gray
Red

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

A Siberian Shiba can have a litter of 4-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Cairn Terrier can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Siberian Shibas are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

3 / 5

While the Siberian Shiba breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

2 / 5

Cairn Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier breeds?

Glaucoma
Hip Dysplasia

Flea Allergy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

Patellar Luxation
Cataracts

Weight Gain

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier breeds?

X-Rays
MRI
CT Scan
Physical Examination
Ultrasound
Urinalysis
Complete Blood Profile
Intraocular Pressure
Blood Count
Chemical Analysis
Ophthalmic Examination

Eye Examination
Physical Examination
Allergy Tests

Energy

How do the energy levels of Siberian Shibas and Cairn Terriers compare?

3 / 5

Siberian Shibas are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

5 / 5

Cairn Terriers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Siberian Shiba vs Cairn Terrier social needs comparison

3 / 5

Siberian Shiba has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

5 / 5

Cairn Terrier has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Siberian Shiba vs Cairn Terrier exercise need comparison.

3 / 5

Siberian Shibas need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

2 / 5

Siberian Shibas sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

1 / 5

Cairn Terriers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Tendency to Bark

Do Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers bark more/less frequently?

3 / 5

Siberian Shibas bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

5 / 5

Cairn Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Siberian Shiba vs Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Siberian Shiba vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

5 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier entertained?

Walk, Tug-of-war, Fetch, Tug of war, Tag

Socializing, Eating Snacks, Walking, Fetch, Playing, Running, Chasing, Barking, Snuggling, Walk, Play with ball, Jump, Run, Chew, Sniffing, Marking

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers?

Siberian Shibas are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Cairn Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Siberian Shiba, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Cairn Terrier, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers require more exercise?

In general most Siberian Shibas usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Cairn Terriers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers?

3 / 5

Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier dogs?

Siberian Shiba should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

In general Cairn Terrier should be brushed at least once a month. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes, especially if they enjoyed it

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Siberian Shibas and Cairn Terriers?

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier in cups?

For an average 15-30 pound (7 - 14 kg) Siberian Shiba feed 1 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 12-14 pound (5 - 6 kg) Cairn Terrier feed 1.3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

The average cost of a Siberian Shiba is somewhere $1.30 - $1.40 per day.

The average cost of a Cairn Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.80 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

When it comes to monthly expenses, both Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier have a similar average cost, ranging from $35 - $42. This results in an average yearly cost of around $420 - $504.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Siberian Shibas vs Cairn Terriers

2 / 5

Siberian Shiba has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

4 / 5

Cairn Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Siberian Shiba vs Cairn Terrier?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

The Siberian Shiba is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Siberian Shibas or Cairn Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

2 / 5

Siberian Shibas are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

Siberian Shibas are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

3 / 5

Cairn Terriers are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Siberian Shiba or Cairn Terrier?

3 / 5

Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier?

4 / 5

Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Siberian Shiba and Cairn Terrier is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Siberian Shibas and Cairn Terriers compare?

2 / 5

Siberian Shibas may require more time and patience to learn commands, but with consistency, they can be trained.

4 / 5

Cairn Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.