Airedale Terrier vs Akita

Terrier · Large vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 50–70 lbs for the Airedale Terrier.
  • The Airedale Terrier typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Airedale Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.
  • The Airedale Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierAkita
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
EnglandJapan
Height (male)
23"26–28"
Height (female)
22"24–26"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs100–130 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs70–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years10–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the Akita

The Akita is a courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal Japanese guardian — one breed, one master philosophy. Originally from Japan, this large working breed typically weighs 100–130 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism