Akita vs Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Working · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 30–50 lbs for the Polish Lowland Sheepdog.
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog sheds less.
  • The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaPolish Lowland Sheepdog
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
JapanPoland
Height (male)
26–28"18–20"
Height (female)
24–26"17–19"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs30–50 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs30–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–14 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)High (4/5)
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)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)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a clever, lively, perceptive Polish shaggy herder — shaggy-coated dog known for memory and adaptability. Originally from Poland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 30–50 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, lively, perceptive.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Polish Lowland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders