Akita vs Old English Sheepdog
Working · Large vs Herding · Large
AkitaLarge
A courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal Japanese guardian — one breed, one master philosophy.
Weight: 100–130 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Old English SheepdogLarge
An adaptable, smart, gentle drover from western England — the shaggy 'Dulux dog' with hidden eyes.
Weight: 60–100 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Quick take
- • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 60–100 lbs for the Old English Sheepdog.
- • The Akita typically lives longer (10–14 years).
- • The Old English Sheepdog is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Akita | Old English Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Herding |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | Japan | England |
Height (male) | 26–28" | 22–24" |
Height (female) | 24–26" | 21–23" |
Weight (male) | 100–130 lbs | 60–100 lbs |
Weight (female) | 70–100 lbs | 60–100 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 10–12 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) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | 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 Old English Sheepdog
The Old English Sheepdog is an adaptable, smart, gentle drover from western England — the shaggy 'Dulux dog' with hidden eyes. Originally from England, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, smart, gentle.
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Akita health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Eye disorders
- • Hypothyroidism
Old English Sheepdog health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Deafness