American Akita vs Cairn Terrier
Compare American Akita and Cairn Terrier side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
American Akita
Cairn Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
61 – 71 cm
28 – 31 cm
Weight
35 – 55 kg
7 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 14 years
12 – 17 years
Child friendly
3/5
5/5
Energy level
3/5
3/5
Intelligence
4/5
3/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
1/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
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Characteristics
American Akita
Super smart
Giant
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About American Akita
Large, powerful spitz-type dog with a broad, bear-like head and curled tail. Calm, loyal, and strongly protective with family, but reserved with strangers and often aloof with other dogs. Thick double coat sheds heavily. Intelligent, independent, and best suited to experienced, consistent owners.
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
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