Akita vs Weimaraner

Working · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Akita is the larger breed at 100–130 lbs (males) vs 70–90 lbs for the Weimaraner.
  • The Weimaraner typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Weimaraner has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Weimaraner sheds less.
  • The Weimaraner is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAkitaWeimaraner
Group
WorkingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
JapanGermany
Height (male)
26–28"25–27"
Height (female)
24–26"23–25"
Weight (male)
100–130 lbs70–90 lbs
Weight (female)
70–100 lbs55–75 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years11–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
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 Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a friendly, fearless, obedient gundog with a striking silver-grey coat — the 'grey ghost' from Germany. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70–90 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, fearless, obedient.

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Akita health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Weimaraner health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Von Willebrand's disease