Alaskan Malamute vs Akita

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Alaskan Malamute
Category
Akita

📏 Physical Stats

65 - 100
Weight (lbs)
65 - 115
23 - 25
Height (inches)
24 - 28
12 - 15 years
Life Expectancy
10 - 14 years
Working
Breed Group
Working
Alaska
Origin
Japan
Hauling heavy freight, Sled pulling
Bred For
Hunting bears

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

3/5
Energy Level
5/5
Better
3/5
Better
Trainability
2/5
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
5/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
4/5
Grooming Needs
2/5
Better

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$3,506
Alaskan Malamute
vs
Annual Cost
$3,506
Akita
Alaskan Malamute
Expense
Akita
$3,506
Annual Cost
$3,506
$4,226
First Year
$4,226
$48,051
Lifetime Total
$42,792
Lower ✓
$1,116
Food (annual)
$1,116
$735
Vet Care (annual)
$735
$550
Grooming (annual)
$550
$1,080
Insurance (annual)
$1,080
$90
Insurance (monthly)
$90

Over their lifetimes, a Akita (~12 yrs) costs approximately $5,259 less than a Alaskan Malamute (~14 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Alaskan Malamute

Friendly, Affectionate, Devoted, Loyal, Dignified, Playful, Brave, Gentle, Curious, Energetic, Independent, Quiet

Akita

Docile, Alert, Responsive, Dignified, Composed, Friendly, Receptive, Faithful, Courageous, Brave, Loyal, Playful, Affectionate