Akita vs Cocker Spaniel

Working · Large vs Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Cocker Spaniel.
  • The Cocker Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cocker Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaCocker Spaniel
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
JapanUSA
Height (male)
26–28"14.5–15.5"
Height (female)
24–26"13.5–14.5"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs20–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
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
mediumlong
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 Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, smart, happy gundog — Disney's Lady, with the gorgeous flowing coat and merry tail. Originally from USA, this small sporting breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, smart, happy.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease