Akita vs West Highland White Terrier
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Akita: Energetic0.8
West Highland White Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Akita: Eager to Please1.0
West Highland White Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Akita: Daily Brushing0.8
West Highland White Terrier: Daily Brushing0.8
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Akita3/5
West Highland White Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Akita1/5
West Highland White Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Akita2/5
West Highland White Terrier4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Akita
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach torsion risk
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Adenitis: Skin condition
VKH Syndrome: Autoimmune disorder
West Highland White Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Addison's Disease: Hormone deficiency
White Shaker Syndrome: Tremor condition
Pulmonary Fibrosis: Lung tissue scarring
Skin Allergies: Dermatological issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
Akita
Pros
Extremely loyal to family
Excellent guard dog
Clean and fastidious
Quiet unless necessary
Independent nature
Cons
Strong prey drive
Same-sex dog aggression
Not ideal for first-time owners
Heavy shedding
Strong-willed personality
West Highland White Terrier
Pros
Adaptable to different living situations
Good with families
Low-shedding coat
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Regular grooming required
May chase small animals
Can be vocal
Akita Fun Fact
Hachiko, the famous Akita, waited nine years at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner's return.
West Highland White Terrier Fun Fact
Their white coat was specifically bred after a farmer accidentally shot his reddish-brown terrier, mistaking it for a fox!
Heritage & Purpose
Akita
Origin: Japan
Developed in Japan's mountainous Akita prefecture during the 17th century, these dogs served as skilled big-game hunters and loyal guardians of nobility.
West Highland White Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Scotland during the 1800s, these terriers were bred to hunt rats, foxes, and other vermin in the Scottish Highlands, with their white coat making them easily distinguishable from prey.
Special Considerations
Akita
Requires consistent grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise regimen, and early socialization. Health screening for breed-specific conditions essential.
West Highland White Terrier
Regular grooming is essential for their double coat. They need consistent training to manage terrier stubbornness and require proper socialization to prevent small animal chasing.
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