Akita vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Working · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Akita typically lives longer (10–14 years).
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaChinese Shar-Pei
Group
WorkingNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
JapanChina
Height (male)
26–28"18–20"
Height (female)
24–26"18–20"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
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 Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies