Breed comparison
Akita vs. Shiba Inu
Side-by-side comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
Size
large (70-130 lbs)
small (17-23 lbs)
Life expectancy
10-14 yrs
13-16 yrs
Activity
moderate
moderate
Grooming
high
high
Coat
double
double
Temperament
dignified, courageous, loyal, alert
alert, confident, independent, spirited
First-year cost
$1,800-$5,000
$1,200-$3,575
Ongoing annual
$1,425-$3,525
$1,000-$2,475
Health comparison
Shared concerns
hip dysplasiaprogressive retinal atrophyatopic dermatitis
Akita specific
bloat (GDV)autoimmune thyroiditishypothyroidismsebaceous adenitismicrophthalmia
Shiba Inu specific
atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies)patellar luxationglaucoma
Cost comparison
Akita
$1,800-$5,000year one
Food: $750-$1,800
Vet: $500-$850
Grooming: $50-$600
Gear: $300-$650
Shiba Inu
$1,200-$3,575year one
Food: $450-$950
Vet: $425-$725
Grooming: $50-$600
Gear: $175-$400
Which breed is right for you?
Consider an Akita if:
- —You want a calmer, lower-energy companion
- —You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- —You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
- —You appreciate a dog with an independent streak
Consider a Shiba Inu if:
- —You want a calmer, lower-energy companion
- —You live in an apartment or smaller home
- —You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- —You want a longer-lived breed (13-16 yrs)
Common symptoms to watch
Full guide
Akita →
Food, supplements, gear, training
Full guide
Shiba Inu →
Food, supplements, gear, training