Akita vs Beagle

Working · Large vs Hound · Small

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 20–30 lbs for the Beagle.
  • The Beagle typically lives longer (10–15 years).
  • The Beagle has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Beagle sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaBeagle
Group
WorkingHound
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
JapanEngland
Height (male)
26–28"13–15"
Height (female)
24–26"13–15"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs20–30 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs20–30 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Beagle

The Beagle is a friendly, curious, merry scenthound — the world's most popular small hound, famous for its bay. Originally from England, this small hound breed typically weighs 20–30 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, curious, merry.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Beagle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Obesity
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Ear infections