Alaskan Malamute vs Akita
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Alaskan Malamute: Energetic0.8
Akita: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Alaskan Malamute: Independent0.4
Akita: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Alaskan Malamute: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Akita: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Akita3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Akita1/5
Good with Strangers
Alaskan Malamute3/5
Akita2/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Alaskan Malamute
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Chondrodysplasia: Growth disorder
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Alaskan Malamute
Pros
Loyal and affectionate
Excellent cold weather dog
Strong and athletic
Good with children
Cons
Heavy shedding
Strong prey drive
Challenging to train
High exercise needs
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
Alaskan Malamute Fun Fact
Malamutes were among the first dogs to reach the South Pole during Admiral Byrd's expedition.
Akita Fun Fact
Hachiko, the famous Akita, waited nine years at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner's return.
Heritage & Purpose
Alaskan Malamute
Origin: United States (Alaska)
Developed by the Mahlemut people of Alaska's Norton Sound region, these dogs served as powerful freight haulers and hunting companions in the Arctic wilderness.
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.
Special Considerations
Alaskan Malamute
Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming. High exercise needs must be met daily. Watch for overheating in warm weather due to thick coat.
Akita
Requires consistent grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise regimen, and early socialization. Health screening for breed-specific conditions essential.
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