Ryukyu Inu vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

Ryukyu Inu vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed ComparisonCatalan Sheepdog is originated from Spain but Ryukyu Inu is originated from Japan. Both Catalan Sheepdog and Ryukyu Inu are having almost same height. Both Catalan Sheepdog and Ryukyu Inu are of same weight. Both Catalan Sheepdog and Ryukyu Inu has almost same life span. Both Catalan Sheepdog and Ryukyu Inu has almost same litter size. Catalan Sheepdog requires Moderate Maintenance. But Ryukyu Inu requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Working dog
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Spain
Japan
Height Male:
47 - 55 cm
18 - 22 inches
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
Height Female:
45 - 53 cm
17 - 21 inches
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
3 - 8
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Gos d'Atura Català, Catalan shepherd
Okinawa Native Dog, Ryukyu Dog
Colors Available:
Fawn, brownish, dark grey, black
liver or black - stripes like a Tiger, Brindle, red, white
Coat:
Long coat - fairly wavy
Shortish - single- and double-coated varieties
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

catalan sheepdogThe Catalan Sheepdog, known also as the Gos d’Atura, hails from Catalonia, Spain. It is believed that the dog is related to the Portuguese- and Pyrenean Sheepdogs.

The standard for this breed was formulated in 1929. The sheepdog developed during Roman Empire times between 200 and 100 BC already, being used as livestock guard dogs. With the breed dwindling in the 1970s, Catalonian Sheepdog lovers started promoting it, but it remains a rare breed.

ryukyu inuThe Ryukyu Inu is a medium-sized dog that comes from Okinawa, Japan.

It’s a dog that is fairly rare having been used to track boar. There isn’t much information on the dog’s history but after its numbers declined after World War II, there was an urge in the 1980s to save the breed.

The dog isn’t recognized by any major Kennel Clubs.

Description

catalan sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe Catalan is a medium sized dog but gives the impression of being bigger than he actually is. He stands from 45 – 55cm in height and weighs between 20 to 25kg.

This breed also has double dew claws on the hind feet. He has a long coat which is slightly wavy and available in different shades such as fawn to brownish to dark grey to black. He has floppy, feathery ears and a fairly long, feathery tail. He has quite a bit of hair on he face too, so you’ll notice a beard, moustache as well as hair which covers the eyes somewhat.

Temperament

Brave and courageous, the Catalan Sheepdog is also intelligent, active and hardy. He has a round face with a friendly, amicable expression. He is totally pleasant and sweet natured. However, in his role as guardian of sheep he took his role seriously, forming a strong relationship with both shepherd and sheep.

He is wary of strangers. Early socialization and training is always important, and while he makes a wonderful family pet, this training and socialization makes him more relaxed and obedient and he gets on well with children in the home as well as with other pets. While he is a placid, docile and gentle pet, he is also looked upon as a protector, and will defend his family.

ryukyu inu puppy - descriptionJapanese dog breeds end with the word ‘Inu’ or ‘Ken’ . It means ‘dog’.

The medium sized Ryukyu Inu stands at between 46 to 50cm in height and weighs between 15 to 25kg. He has a black nose, dark brown eyes and erect ears. The tail is long and curls over the back.

The dog’s coat is short and you get the single- and double coated varieties. The coat can be brindle, red, white, liver or black. Some of the dogs have tiger-like stripes in the coat. People are amazed at these dogs as they have incredible climbing abilities and are even capable of climbing a tree.

Temperament:

These dogs are quiet, unobtrusive dogs. The Ryukyu Inu looks very much like a wild dog, which gives the impression of being un-trainable and ferocious but they are easily trained and make splendid pets.

Many people who have had them as pets say they would choose this dog over and over again. They are brave too and get on well with children or pets in the home. They don’t look for trouble, and their kind, stable natures make them excellent therapy dogs.

They’re intelligent dogs and will require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They will also need to be trained and socialized as they are confident, strong-willed dogs who might not obey you if left to do what they want.

Characteristics

catalan sheepdog dog - characteristicsThe Catalan Sheepdog is such an amicable character – he is going to make an awesome pet. He is an intelligent and obedient dog and is easily trained.

He has been used for guarding- and herding work and as a family pet makes a excellent guard dog as well. Capable of being gentle too, he is everything his human family wants him to be and just becomes a regular member of the family.

ryukyu inu dog - characteristicsThis dog has always been a hunting dog so he will want to have his fair share of good exercise – long walks as well as ball and rope games.

He makes a splendid pet because he has an amicable nature wanting to please. He is quiet, loving and loyal, and with such a dog in your home and heart, you just keep discovering what a wonderful pet this 4-legged friend can be.

Health Problems

catalan sheepdog puppies - health problemsThe Catalan Sheepdog is a fairly healthy breed and has a life expectancy of 12, 13 or 14 years. Nonetheless you will still need to watch out with common dog ailments with him, particularly hip dysplasia.

Hyp Dysplasia:

This is a joint and hip disease which can start with symptoms from 6 months of age already. Your dog will be hesitant to play and jump, doesn’t like to go upstairs, tires easily during a walk and develops a hop-like way to walk. You’ll notice that when he lies down, he battles to- or is reluctant to get up again.

X-rays may be required to confirm the diagnosis of hip dysplasia. There are different treatment options, all with the wellbeing of your pet in mind. You don’t want him to have a life of pain and lameness.

ryukyu inu puppies - health problemsThese Japanese dogs are thought to be fairly healthy dogs, but like with most other dogs, you would need to be aware of hip dysplasia, bloat, caner and hypothyroidism.

The Ryukyu Inu, with its 10 to 12 years lifespan, will be prone to minor ailments, but with good care he is not likely to succumb to any of them.

Cataract:

Cataracts have a number of causes in dogs. This disease of the eye can occur at any age, and can develop over weeks or even years.

Cataracts can occur in just one eye or both eyes and a disease such as diabetes can bring on a cataract.

Good nutrition is important for a dog to build a strong immune system, and nutritional supplementation can certainly help to enhance lens health. Cataract surgery can be performed to remove the cataracts.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

catalan sheepdog dogs - caringThe Catalan Sheepdog is a working breed, so he is going to need plenty of exercise. While he adapts easily to city- or country life, it will be to his benefit to have a garden to romp in. You will still need to take him for walks and play ball- and rope games with him. This will prevent boredom and destructive behavior from him.

Grooming:

The Catalan Sheepdog has long hair so he will need to be brushed twice a week to avoid matting. This will help to remove loose hair too, but also distribute natural oils through his coat, keeping his hair and skin healthy and free from skin rashes and itchiness.

This brushing ensures other benefits as you can simultaneously check him for parasites such as fleas and ticks.

Diet:

If you feed him commercial dog food, make sure its a high quality one. He is an active breed so will require high protein. Give him some homemade rice, vegetables and meat, and include raw meat in his food from time to time too. Always ensure that there is fresh, cool water constantly within reach.

ryukyu inu dogs - caringThe coat of the Ryukya Inu requires brushing twice a week to remove loose hairs. At the same time check your dog over for new lumps and check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Bad teeth can cause lots of pain and toxins within the body. You can also choose to have the teeth seen to and cleaned by your vet.

Provide him with his own warm, dry place to sleep.

Provide him with top quality food. There are some excellent commercially manufactured foods on the market that make a point of ensuring good ingredients in them. Your Ryukya Inu needs good food to ensure longevity and health.

Try to include some home-made food for him which can be simply mixed into the dry kibble twice a week. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots is super tasty and nutritious. This food can all be chopped up, refrigerated and added warmed up and in small portions to your pets dry kibble once or twice a week. Your dog will love it.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Have him neutered or spayed if you aren’t wanting puppies.

Keep his vaccines up to date against some deadly canine diseases.

Get him to the vet when he is injured, in pain or sick.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Ryukyu Inu vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  5. Ryukyu Inu vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Ryukyu Inu vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Ryukyu Inu vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Ryukyu Inu vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Ryukyu Inu vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Ryukyu Inu vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Ryukyu Inu vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Ryukyu Inu vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Ryukyu Inu vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Ryukyu Inu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Ryukyu Inu vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Ryukyu Inu vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Ryukyu Inu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
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  24. Ryukyu Inu vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Ryukyu Inu vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Catalan Sheepdog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Catalan Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Catalan Sheepdog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Catalan Sheepdog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Catalan Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Catalan Sheepdog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Catalan Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Catalan Sheepdog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Catalan Sheepdog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Catalan Sheepdog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Catalan Sheepdog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Catalan Sheepdog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Catalan Sheepdog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Catalan Sheepdog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Catalan Sheepdog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Catalan Sheepdog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Catalan Sheepdog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Catalan Sheepdog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Catalan Sheepdog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Catalan Sheepdog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Catalan Sheepdog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Catalan Sheepdog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Catalan Sheepdog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Catalan Sheepdog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Catalan Sheepdog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison