Akita vs Alaskan Malamute
Compare two breeds
Pick two breeds to see them compared side by side.
Akita
The Akita originates from Japan's Akita Prefecture, where it hunted large game, bear included, for centuries before becoming a national symbol of loyalty, embodied by Hachiko, the dog who kept waiting at a train station for his owner years after the man had died. The dense double coat, with a short, harsh outer layer, blows out heavily twice a year. A build up to 45 kilograms stays solid and muscular, and the breed is considered one of the most independent and dominant among spitz-type dogs. It can be confrontational with other dogs, especially of the same sex, so early socialization matters. With its owner it tends to be deeply loyal, though reserved with strangers. Life expectancy runs 10 to 13 years.
Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is named after the Mahlemiut Inuit people of northwest Alaska, who kept the breed for centuries to haul heavy freight, a job built around power rather than speed. Unlike the lighter Siberian Husky, the Malamute was bred to pull heavy loads slowly over long distances, which is why a build up to 43 kilograms runs heavier and more muscular. The dense double coat sheds heavily and needs regular brushing, especially through the seasonal blowout. The breed carries a strong prey drive toward small animals and tends to be strong-willed, so training needs to start early and stay consistent. Life expectancy runs 10 to 14 years.
At a glance
| Akita | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Height (male) | 64.0–70.0 cm | 61.0–66.0 cm |
| Weight (male) | 32.0–45.0 kg | 34.0–43.0 kg |
| Life expectancy | 10–13 yrs | 10–14 yrs |
| Coat | double coat, short-medium harsh outer coat | double coat, thick, medium length |
Temperament & Family Life
| Akita | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Family friendly | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Trainability |
Exercise, Energy & Space
| Akita | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | ||
| Exercise need | ||
| Apartment friendly | ||
| Prey drive | ||
| Hunting instinct |
Guarding & Alertness
| Akita | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Guarding instinct | ||
| Watchfulness | ||
| Barking level |
Grooming & Care
| Akita | Alaskan Malamute | |
|---|---|---|
| Shedding | ||
| Drooling | ||
| Grooming need |
Temperament and care scores (1-5) are a general guide based on the breed standard — every individual dog is different.