Akita vs Newfoundland
Working · Large vs Working · Giant
AkitaLarge
A courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal Japanese guardian — one breed, one master philosophy.
Weight: 100–130 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
NewfoundlandGiant
A sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast.
Weight: 130–150 lbsLifespan: 9–10 years
Quick take
- • Newfoundland is the larger breed at 130–150 lbs (males) vs 100–130 lbs for the Akita.
- • The Akita typically lives longer (10–14 years).
- • The Akita has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Akita sheds less.
- • The Newfoundland is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Akita | Newfoundland |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Working |
Size | Large | Giant |
Origin | Japan | Canada |
Height (male) | 26–28" | 28" |
Height (female) | 24–26" | 26" |
Weight (male) | 100–130 lbs | 130–150 lbs |
Weight (female) | 70–100 lbs | 100–120 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 9–10 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with strangers | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a sweet, patient, devoted water-rescue dog — the gentle 'nanny dog' from Canada's Atlantic coast. Originally from Canada, this giant working breed typically weighs 130–150 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as sweet, patient, devoted.
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Akita health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Newfoundland health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Bloat
- • Cystinuria