At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Chow Chow | Akita |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Working Dogs | Working Dogs |
| Size | Large | Large |
| Height | 17 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder | 24 inches to 28 tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 40 to 70 pounds | 70 to 130 pounds |
| Life span | 12 to 15 years | 10 to 12 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Shedding
The Akita sheds more than the Chow Chow.
Barking
The Akita barks more than the Chow Chow.
Copes alone
The Chow Chow copes better when left alone than the Akita.
Energy
The Akita has more energy than the Chow Chow.
Exercise needs
The Akita needs more exercise than the Chow Chow.
Intelligence
The Akita is quicker to learn than the Chow Chow.
Which to choose
Chow Chow or Akita?
Choose the Chow Chow if…
- You want a dog that sheds less
- You want a dog that barks less
- You want a dog that copes better when left alone
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
Choose the Akita if…
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
- You want a dog that tends to have fewer health problems
Questions.
Is the Chow Chow or the Akita bigger, and which lives longer?
The Akita is the bigger breed, about 20 kg heavier on average. The Chow Chow tends to live about 3 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Chow Chow or the Akita?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Chow Chow or the Akita?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Chow Chow sheds less than the Akita. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
