Akita
Japan's national dog, the Akita is dignified, calm and legendarily loyal, but independent and intolerant of other dogs.
Akita vs American Akita
Side by side
| Trait | Akita | American Akita |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Spitz and primitive types | Spitz and primitive types |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Weight | 30–45 kg | 32–59 kg |
| Height at withers | 58–70 cm | 61–71 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–14 years | 10–12 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: American Akita (about 45.5 kg vs 37.5 kg on average)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
American Akita
Heavier than the Japanese Akita, the American Akita is a powerful, calm and very loyal guardian for experienced owners only.