Better dog to have as a pet in an apartment, Shiba Inu or Labrador?

Question

And are Shiba's difficult or just a myth?

Answer 1

I think your best bet is a Shiba... Labs are great but require a lot more room to exercise... Shibas also need exercise but they can get enough from walks with you or running and playing with you in your apartment...

As for the being difficult thing.... They need a lot of socialization! While they may be shy to people they may be dog aggressive! You need to take the time and check out any breeders in your area and get some info...
Then I recommend a rescue program.... Rescue a shiba that is looking for a safe home! You will feel even more attachment to a dog that looks to you and your home as his or her safe place!!

Answer 2

Please do not get a Shiba Inu. They need to run and your apartments probably don't have a an area for this. The Shiba Inu is an unusual dog in that some people have described it as being one of the least domesticated dogs that exist today. That is not to say it is wild and untrainable, it is, however, independent. The hunting instinct is very strong in this breed of dog. For this reason a Shiba Inu should never be off lead outside. If the dog spots a squirrel, or rabbit, anything that kicks in the prey drive, the Shiba will give chase and simply will not hear its owner calling it back. They do like to roam and can be very headstrong.
This breed will need to have an outdoor run, not just a fenced in yard. This run will need to have a roof and be built with a cement floor. Its nature is to be an escape artist, and they are very clever.
The Shiba is extremely intelligent, almost cunning, but this does not necessarily mean to say that the dog is obedient. This dog is inquisitive, active, and good natured. It can be loyal and affectionate to those humans that earn its respect. The Shiba is reserved and aloof towards strangers, and will not be interested in seeking friendship from outsiders.

A lab will need a ton of excercise, but not like a Shiba. As long as your apartment is big enough and you're prepared to go for multiple walks with your dog throughout the day, then get a lab.

Answer 3

both depending on your lifestyle. If you're willing to take long walks or let the dog run and play at the park, then labs are great. I live in an apt. and have a LabX and 2 Shih-tzus, there are many large dogs that live in our complex and there is also one Shiba Inu. Labs are a lot friendlier around other people and other dogs than Shibas, most Shibas I know tend to be more aloof towards people outside of their family and usually don't do well with other dogs.

Answer 4

Shiba Inu

Answer 5

I wouldn't suggest getting a labrador for an apartment because they are very active dogs. Although I don't know much about Shiba Inu's, I would do extensive research. Trained dogs can live anywhere, as long as you are a responsible owner and walk them and let them get their energy out somehow. I wouldn't get a dog unless you know that you have the time, remember it is a long time commitment and companion.

Answer 6

Labs require a great deal of exercise - this is also a breed with a tendency to become overweight if they don't get it. And yes, the shibas I've known are rather difficult and can also be very dog aggressive.

Answer 7

Shiba's are great dogs, but i don't really think a dog that big should be living in an apartment.
You should try a smaller size like a corgi.
But it's your choice.........

Answer 8

Shiba Inu wont need as much room as the Lab. plus, u'd have to walk the Lab more.

Answer 9

Labradors get fat and over what very easily. And are to big in my opinion for an apartment.
I love Shiba-Inus

Glad I could help

Answer 10

I would highly suggest a dog that has a less tendency to shed, which is probably a Lab. Smaller dogs are probably for living, but if you give the larger dogs enough exercise then it probbaly won't matter as much.