Akita vs Keeshond

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 35–45 lbs for the Keeshond.
  • The Keeshond typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Keeshond has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Akita sheds less.
  • The Keeshond is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaKeeshond
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
JapanNetherlands
Height (male)
26–28"18"
Height (female)
24–26"17"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs35–45 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–15 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)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
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 Keeshond

The Keeshond is a friendly, lively, outgoing Dutch barge dog — Holland's national dog with a fluffy 'spectacles' face. Originally from Netherlands, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, lively, outgoing.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Keeshond health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart issues
  • Epilepsy