Compare

Akita vs Shiba Inu

Two reserved, independent Japanese spitz breeds that shed heavily; the Akita is a large, dignified guardian, the Shiba a small dog that suits apartments.

Akita profileShiba Inu profile

Verdict

The Akita and the Shiba Inu are Japanese spitz breeds with a reserved manner, an independent streak and low trainability. Both shed heavily, handle cold far better than heat, need 45 to 60 minutes of daily activity and suit experienced owners with a secure yard.

Size is the big difference. The Akita is a large, dignified guardian of 70 to 130 pounds, bonded to its own family and sometimes needing separation from other dogs, and it is a poor fit for apartments. The Shiba weighs 17 to 23 pounds, is alert and spirited, adapts to apartments with daily outings and has a longer listed life. A Shiba is also unreliable off leash and does not welcome every guest.

Choose the Akita if

  • You want a courageous, devoted one-family guardian
  • You are experienced and have a fenced yard
  • Your home is calm, with few guests
  • You can manage a very large dog

Choose the Shiba Inu if

  • You want a small, clean, spirited dog
  • You live in an apartment and can provide daily outings
  • You are patient through independent training
  • You are ready for heavy seasonal shedding

Side by side

Akita Shiba Inu
AKC group Working Group Non-Sporting Group
Size class Large Small
Typical weight 70 to 130 lb 17 to 23 lb
Height 24 to 28 in at the shoulder 13.5 to 16.5 in at the shoulder
Typical lifespan 10 to 13 years 13 to 16 years
AKC popularity, 2025 62 of 202 44 of 202
Shedding Very heavy Very heavy
Grooming needs Moderate Moderate
Energy Moderate Moderate
Trainability Below average Below average
Barking Rarely barks Seldom barks
With children Good with supervision Good with supervision
Apartment living Fair Good
First-time owners Experienced owners only Challenging
Heat tolerance Below average Below average
Cold tolerance Excellent Excellent
Temperament
  • dignified
  • loyal
  • courageous
  • reserved
  • independent
  • alert
  • spirited
  • reserved
Health concerns to know about
  • hip dysplasia
  • autoimmune diseases
  • progressive retinal atrophy
  • hypothyroidism
  • bloat
  • allergies
  • patellar luxation
  • glaucoma
  • hip dysplasia
  • hypothyroidism
Suits
  • experienced owners
  • quiet homes with a fenced yard
  • people who want a devoted one-family dog
  • experienced owners
  • people who admire an independent dog
  • homes with a securely fenced yard

Facts and ratings come from each breed's profile. They describe a breed as a whole, and individual dogs vary, so meet the dog before you choose.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

In the index now