Akita vs Shiba Inu
Which breed is right for you?
Quick verdict
Both are bold, independent Japanese spitz breeds that bond closely with their family and stay aloof with strangers, but the biggest difference is size: the Akita is a large 32 to 59 kg working guardian, while the Shiba Inu is a small 8 to 10 kg companion. The Akita suits an experienced owner who wants an imposing watchdog and can manage its dog aggression, whereas the Shiba Inu fits someone who wants the same spirited personality in a compact, apartment-friendly package. Neither is an easy first dog, since both are strong-willed with only moderate trainability.
At a glance
| Akita | Shiba Inu | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Working | Non-Sporting |
| Size | Large | Small |
| Weight | 32-59 kg | 8-10 kg |
| Height | 61-71 cm | 34-42 cm |
| Lifespan | 10-13 yr | 13-16 yr |
| Origin | Japan | Japan |
| Energy | 3 / 5 | 4 / 5 |
| Trainability | 3 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Friendliness | 2 / 5 | 3 / 5 |
| Shedding | 4 / 5 | 4 / 5 |
| Barking | 2 / 5 | 2 / 5 |
| Good with kids | Better with older kids | Good |
| With other dogs | Often dog-aggressive | With care |
| With cats | Low, high prey drive | With care |
Choose the Akita if:
Choose the Akita if you have dog-owning experience, want a large, dignified guardian, and can handle a powerful breed that is often dog-aggressive and best in a home with older children and no other pets.
Full Akita profileChoose the Shiba Inu if:
Choose the Shiba Inu if you want a small, clean, long-lived dog with a bold personality, a better fit for families and apartments, that still respects an owner who accepts its stubborn, independent streak.
Full Shiba Inu profileFrequently asked questions
Which is better for an apartment?
The Shiba Inu, by a wide margin. At 8 to 10 kg it is compact and sturdy, while the Akita is a large breed that needs more space, a secure yard, and careful management around neighbors and other dogs.
Which is better with families and kids?
The Shiba Inu is rated good with kids, while the Akita does better with older children and experienced households. Both are loyal but aloof, so neither is an ideal pick for homes with toddlers or other pets.
Which is easier to train for a first-time owner?
Neither is truly easy, since both score the same on trainability and are intelligent but headstrong. The Akita's size and dog reactivity make it the harder and riskier choice for a beginner, so the Shiba Inu is the more forgiving of the two.