Akita vs Rottweiler

Working · Large vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 lbs (males) vs 100–130 lbs for the Akita.
  • The Akita typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Rottweiler has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Rottweiler sheds less.
  • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaRottweiler
Group
WorkingWorking
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
JapanGermany
Height (male)
26–28"24–27"
Height (female)
24–26"22–25"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs95–135 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs80–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years9–10 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
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 Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Rottweiler health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Bloat