Akita
Japan's national dog, the Akita is dignified, calm and legendarily loyal, but independent and intolerant of other dogs.
Akita vs Shiba Inu
Side by side
| Trait | Akita | Shiba Inu |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Spitz and primitive types | Spitz and primitive types |
| Size | Large | Small |
| Weight | 30–45 kg | 7–11 kg |
| Height at withers | 58–70 cm | 35–41 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–14 years | 12–16 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Yes |
Key differences
- Heavier: Akita (about 37.5 kg vs 9 kg on average)
- Taller: Akita (about 64 cm vs 38 cm on average)
- Longer life expectancy: Shiba Inu (about 14 years vs 12 years on average)
- Suited to apartments: Shiba Inu only
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
- Shiba Inu is the better fitBased 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
- Shiba Inu is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Shiba Inu
A small fox-like Japanese dog, the Shiba is clean, independent and proud, with a rather cat-like character.