Akita vs Maltese
Working · Large vs Toy · Toy
AkitaLarge
A courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal Japanese guardian — one breed, one master philosophy.
Weight: 100–130 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
MalteseToy
A gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat.
Weight: 7 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 7 lbs for the Maltese.
- • The Maltese typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Maltese sheds less.
- • The Maltese is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Akita | Maltese |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Toy |
Size | Large | Toy |
Origin | Japan | Malta |
Height (male) | 26–28" | 7–9" |
Height (female) | 24–26" | 7–9" |
Weight (male) | 100–130 lbs | 7 lbs |
Weight (female) | 70–100 lbs | 7 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Maltese
The Maltese is a gentle, playful, charming aristocrat — ancient Mediterranean lapdog with a flowing snow-white coat. Originally from Malta, this toy toy breed typically weighs 7 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, playful, charming.
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Akita health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Maltese health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Liver shunt
- • Dental issues
- • White shaker syndrome