Akita vs Boxer

Working · Large vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 65–80 lbs for the Boxer.
  • The Akita typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Boxer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Boxer sheds less.
  • The Boxer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaBoxer
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
JapanGermany
Height (male)
26–28"23–25"
Height (female)
24–26"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs50–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 Boxer

The Boxer is a bright, fun-loving, active working dog — eternally puppyish, devoted to family, wary of strangers. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as bright, fun-loving, active.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Boxer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Heart conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat