Shiba Inu vs Akita
Same spitz look, very different weight class. The Shiba is a cat in a fox costume; the Akita is a dignified bodyguard who doesn't share.
Side by side
| Shiba Inu | Akita | Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 3/5 | 4/5 | The Akita is bigger |
| Energy | 3/5 | 3/5 | Tie |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 4/5 | Tie |
| Barking | 2/5 | 2/5 | Tie |
| Trainability | 2/5 | 2/5 | Tie |
| Kid-friendliness | 3/5 | 3/5 | Tie |
| Drooling | 1/5 | 3/5 | The Akita drools more |
| Life expectancy | 13–16 years | 10–13 years | The Shiba Inu lives longer |
Vet costs
Age 1, U.S.-average prices, $2,000 emergency savings.
Shiba Inu
- First-year expected vet cost: $810
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $55/mo
- Top cost drivers: Allergies / itchy skin · Glaucoma
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $20,906
Akita
- First-year expected vet cost: $798
- Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: $54/mo
- Top cost drivers: Sebaceous adenitis · VKH syndrome
- Expected lifetime vet cost: $14,908
Lifetime totals include lifespan: the Shiba Inu is expected to live 13–16 years, the Akita 10–13 years.
About the same.
Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Choose the Shiba Inu if…
- You want a smaller, independent dog
- You like a clean, almost cat-like companion
- You're okay with a dog that comes when it decides to
Choose the Akita if…
- You want a large, loyal guardian
- You're an experienced owner
- You can manage a strong dog that's selective with other dogs
FAQ
Which is cheaper to insure?
About the same. Fair monthly insurance price at age 1: Shiba Inu $55, Akita $54. Statistical estimate, not a quote or insurance advice.
Which sheds more?
It's a tie on shedding. Shedding: Shiba Inu 4/5, Akita 4/5.
Which lives longer?
The Shiba Inu lives longer. Shiba Inu: 13–16 years; Akita: 10–13 years.
Which is better with kids?
It's a tie on kid-friendliness. Kid-friendliness: Shiba Inu 3/5, Akita 3/5.
Test-drive the Shiba Inu · Test-drive the Akita · Shiba Inu profile · Akita profile