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West Highland White Terrier vs Akita Inu Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Westie (or Westy) or American Akita?

Compare the West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Westie (or Westy) or a American Akita? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Other names

Westie (or Westy), Poltalloch Terrier, Roseneath Terrier, White Roseneath Terrier
Japanese Akita, American Akita, Great Japanese Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?
18.0 pounds ( 8 kg )
110.0 pounds ( 50 kg )

Height

What is the average height of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu
11.0 inches ( 27.9 cm )
27.0 inches ( 68.6 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

Both the West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds have an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus hypoallergenic, or neither?

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, West Highland White Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

No

Unfortunately, the Akita Inu is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dogs?
Affectionate
Courageous
Friendly
Independent
Alert
Intelligent

Alert
Dignified
Friendly
Responsive
Courageous
Docile
Intelligent
Vigilant
Independent
Faithful
Willing
Protective

Shedding Level

Do West Highland White Terriers shed more than Akita Inus, or which breed sheds more, West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus?

West Highland White Terriers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Akita Inus shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Choose an Akita Inu if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

Origin

What is the origin of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dog breeds?
Scotland

Japan

Ancestry

What are the origins of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds?
scottish, skye, dandie dinmont, and cairn terriers

Northern Spitz

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds first developed?
1800s

1600s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dogs?
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds?
White

Brindle
White
Silver
Fawn
Red
Black
Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds?

The coat of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?
Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?

12-16 puppies per pregnancy

A West Highland White Terrier can have a litter of 12-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

10-14 puppies per pregnancy

An Akita Inu can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

West Highland White Terriers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Akita Inus are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The West Highland White Terrier breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

While the Akita Inu breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds?
Inguinal Hernias
Copper Toxicosis
Addison's Disease
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Bloat
Von Willebrand's Disease
Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Elbow Dysplasia
Pemphigus
Sebaceous Adenitis

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds?
Hip
Knee
Blood Test
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Blood
Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of West Highland White Terriers and Akita Inus compare?

West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, these breeds may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

West Highland White Terrier vs Akita Inu social needs comparison

West Highland White Terrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Akita Inu has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

West Highland White Terrier vs Akita Inu exercise need comparison.

The West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu breeds need significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dogs tend to sleep less than some other breeds, but it's still important for them to get adequate sleep in order to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Akita Inu excessively drools, consider a different breed if not appealing.

Tendency to Bark

Do West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus bark more/less frequently?

West Highland White Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

Akita Inus are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Territorial

Is the West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu a better guard dog?

These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: West Highland White Terrier vs Akita Inu?

Roaming urge

West Highland White Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu entertained?
Belly rubs, Walking, Petting, Playing, Nap, Walk, Play, Run, Walking slow, Daily walks, River rafting, Camping, Hike

Run, Frisbee, Chase, Sniff, Swim, Play, Walk, Fetch, Walking, Tug-of-war, Running, Training, Listen to me, Belly rubs

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus?

Medium

Both West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu walk each week?

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For West Highland White Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Akita Inu, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus require more exercise?

30 minutes

In general most West Highland White Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

In general most Akita Inus usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus?

West Highland White Terriers require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

The Akita Inu has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dogs?

Weekly

West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for West Highland White Terriers and Akita Inus?
Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu in cups?

1.8 cups

For an average 15-21 pound (7 - 10 kg) West Highland White Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

3 cups

For an average 100-130 pound (45 - 59 kg) Akita Inu feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

$1.40 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a West Highland White Terrier is somewhere $1.40 - $1.40 per day.

$2.80 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an Akita Inu is somewhere $2.80 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a West Highland White Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$84 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an Akita Inu is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: West Highland White Terriers vs Akita Inus

West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: West Highland White Terrier vs Akita Inu?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terriers are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Akita Inus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do West Highland White Terriers or Akita Inus have a friendlier temperament towards children?

West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

Cat Friendly

Do West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

West Highland White Terriers and Akita Inus are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terriers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Akita Inus are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

Pet friendly

How do West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: West Highland White Terrier or Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Akita Inus are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu?

West Highland White Terriers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Akita Inus have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of West Highland White Terriers and Akita Inus compare?

West Highland White Terrier and Akita Inu dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.

Common match-ups