Looking for a dog? Two great choices are the Akita vs Scottish Terrier. They are very different in size and personality.

An Akita is big and strong—it can weigh up to 130 pounds. Think of it as a gentle giant that is loyal and protective.

A Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, is small but full of spirit. It usually weighs about 20 pounds. Picture a tiny warrior with a big heart.

No matter which breed you choose, both the Akita and Scottish Terrier bring unique traits and a lot of love to your home.

Main Differences

• Size: Akitas are large; Scotties are small.
• Personality: Akitas are calm and protective. Scotties are bold and independent.
• Exercise: Akitas enjoy calm walks. Scotties love to run and play.
• Training: Akitas need a firm leader. Scotties can be stubborn.
• Best For: Akitas need space and an experienced owner. Scotties are great for smaller homes.

Whether you want a quiet guardian or a little adventurer, this guide will help you decide which dog fits your lifestyle. Let’s explore more!

Akita vs Scottish Terrier

Big and bold or small and spunky? Explore the unique traits of the Akita vs Scottish Terrier to find the perfect companion for your home and lifestyle!

The History of the Akita and Scottish Terrier

Dogs have been with people for a long time. The Akita and Scottish Terrier come from different places, but both are known for being brave and loyal.

Akita: A Loyal Dog from Japan

Where It Comes From

The Akita comes from Japan and is one of the country’s oldest dog breeds. It was first used for hunting big animals like bears and later became a guard dog for important families.

One famous Akita was Hachiko. He waited at a train station for 10 years after his owner died. Today, people in Japan see him as a symbol of loyalty.

Why It’s Special

In Japan, Akitas stand for strength and protection. A long time ago, only royal and noble families could own them. Even today, people give Akita statues as good luck gifts.

Scottish Terrier: A Brave Dog from Scotland

Where It Comes From

The Scottish Terrier, or Scottie, comes from Scotland. It was bred to hunt small animals like badgers and foxes. Scotties are tough and determined, which is why they are called “Diehards.”

Scotties became even more popular when Fala, a Scottie owned by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, became famous.

Why It’s Special

The Scottie is a symbol of Scotland. People love it for its bravery and independent spirit. Its bold personality and unique look make it one of the most famous dogs in the world.

Both the Akita and the Scottie have a long history. Their past helps us understand why they are such special dogs today!

Akita vs. Scottish Terrier: Physical Differences

The Akita and Scottish Terrier look very different. One is big and powerful, while the other is small and sturdy. Let’s compare their size, coat, and lifespan.

Size and Build

Akita

• Big and strong, weighing 70–130 lbs and standing 24–28 inches tall.
• Has a muscular body and looks noble and protective.

Scottish Terrier

• Small but tough, weighing 18–22 lbs and standing 10–11 inches tall.
• Has short legs and a bold look, with a beard and mustache.

Coat and Grooming

Akita

• Has a thick double coat that keeps it warm.
• Comes in white, brindle, and red colors.
• Sheds a lot, so needs regular brushing.

Scottish Terrier

• Has a wiry coat that protects it from rough weather.
• Comes in black, wheaten, or brindle colors.
• Doesn’t shed much, but needs grooming to stay neat.

Lifespan

• Akitas live 10–15 years and need more space and exercise.
• Scotties live 12–15 years and do well in smaller homes.

The Akita is big and protective, while the Scottie is small and bold. Both are strong in their own way!

Understanding the Personalities of the Akita and Scottish Terrier

Every dog has its own way of acting. The Akita and Scottish Terrier are very different in personality. Let’s see what makes them special.

Akita’s Personality

What They’re Like

• Very loyal and protective of their family.
• Quiet and dignified, but also independent.
• Wary of strangers and may not get along with other pets without training.

Things to Consider

• Needs an experienced owner who can train them properly.
• Can be strong-willed, so firm and steady training is important.
• Makes a great guard dog but needs socialization to be well-behaved.

Scottish Terrier’s Personality

What They’re Like?

• Confident and full of energy.
• Loves family but can be a little stubborn.
• Independent, which means training takes patience.

Things to Consider

• Can be friendly, but may bark a lot or dig if not guided.
• Needs consistent training to prevent bad habits.

How They Get Along with Others

• Akitas are best for people who want a calm but protective dog. They may not like other pets.
• Scottish Terriers are more social and playful, but they may chase small animals.
• Both breeds need early training to be well-mannered.

If you want a strong, loyal protector, the Akita is a great choice. If you prefer a small, bold, and loving friend, the Scottish Terrier could be perfect!

Training and Exercise Needs of the Akita and Scottish Terrier

Training and exercise are important for every dog, but the Akita and Scottish Terrier need different approaches. Let’s see what works best for each.

Training Challenges

Akita

• Strong-willed and independent, so training takes patience.
• Needs an experienced owner who can set clear rules.
• Early socialization is important to prevent aggression.

Scottish Terrier

• Smart but stubborn, so training needs to be fun and rewarding.
• Learns best with short, positive training sessions using treats and praise.
• Needs patience because they like to do things their own way.

Exercise Needs

Akita

• Needs daily walks and playtime to stay healthy.
• Likes having space to roam, so a yard is helpful.
• Best for homes with more space, like in the suburbs or countryside.

Scottish Terrier

• Needs moderate exercise, like short walks and play.
• Loves mental challenges, like puzzle toys or training games.
• Does well in apartments, as long as they get enough activity.

The Akita needs firm training and lots of space, while the Scottish Terrier learns best with fun training and structured activity.

Grooming Needs of the Akita and Scottish Terrier

Both dogs need grooming, but the Akita and Scottish Terrier have different care routines. Let’s see what it takes to keep them looking their best.

Akita Grooming

What They Need?

• Brushing once a week (every day during shedding season).
• Sheds a lot, especially in spring and fall.
• Bathing every 2–3 months unless they get dirty.

Things to Know:

• Their thick fur needs extra care when shedding.
• Be ready for lots of loose fur around the house.

Scottish Terrier Grooming

What They Need?

• Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to keep their coat neat.
• Minimal shedding, but their wiry fur needs trimming or hand-stripping.
• Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning to prevent infections.

Things to Know:

• Needs more professional grooming than the Akita.
• If not groomed, their fur can become rough or tangled.

The Akita needs brushing to manage shedding, while the Scottish Terrier needs regular trims to keep its coat in shape.

Health and Wellness of the Akita and Scottish Terrier

Just like people, dogs can have health problems. The Akita and Scottish Terrier each have issues to watch for.

Common Health Issues

Akita

• Can have hip problems that make movement painful.
• Some suffer from autoimmune diseases that affect their health.
• Bloat is a serious risk—this happens when the stomach twists.
• May develop certain cancers.

Scottish Terrier

• Can have knee problems, making it hard to walk.
• Some have blood clotting issues (von Willebrand’s disease).
• Skin allergies are common, causing itching.
• Also at risk for certain cancers.

Keeping Them Healthy

• Regular vet visits help catch problems early.
• Vaccines protect against diseases.
• A good diet keeps bones and joints strong.
• Exercise and a healthy weight prevent strain on the body.

Both dogs need good care, vet checkups, and a healthy lifestyle to live a happy life.

Best Living Environment for Akita and Scottish Terrier

Every dog needs the right home to be happy. Let’s see which environment works best for the Akita and Scottish Terrier.

Akita Living Conditions

Best for

• Homes with lots of space and a fenced yard.
• Owners who know how to handle big, independent dogs.
• Suburban or rural areas where they can move around freely.

Not Ideal for

• Small apartments—Akitas need room to stretch and play.
• First-time dog owners—they need firm training and leadership.

Scottish Terrier Living Conditions

Best for

• Apartments or small homes, as long as they get daily walks.
• City life, since they don’t need much space.
• Families who have time to play with them.

Things to Consider

• They need daily exercise to stay happy.
• They may bark a lot, so training helps in shared spaces.

The Akita needs space and an experienced owner, while the Scottish Terrier can live in small homes if they get enough exercise.

Cost of Owning an Akita or Scottish Terrier

Dogs need food, vet care, and grooming, so it’s important to know what each breed costs.

Akita Costs

What You’ll Spend

• Buying an Akita costs $1,500 to $4,500, depending on the breeder.
• They eat a lot, so food costs are high.
• Vet bills and grooming cost more because they are big dogs.

Scottish Terrier Costs

What You’ll Spend

• A Scottish Terrier costs $1,000 to $3,000 to buy.
• They eat less, so food costs are lower.
• They need regular grooming, which adds to the cost.
• Vet visits and health checkups are still important.

Things to Think About

• Akitas cost more overall because they are bigger and need more care.
• Scottish Terriers are cheaper but need grooming and vet visits.
• Both dogs need a long-term financial commitment, so plan before getting one.

Misconceptions About Akitas and Scottish Terriers

People often believe things about these breeds that aren’t true. Let’s clear up some common myths.

Akita Myths

Myth: “Akitas are aggressive.”

• Truth: They are protective, not aggressive.
• With training and socialization, they can be calm and loyal.

Scottish Terrier Myths

Myth: “Scottish Terriers are hypoallergenic.”

• Truth: They shed less, but no dog is completely allergy-free.
• People with allergies may still react to their dander.

Knowing the truth helps you choose the right dog and care for them properly.

Choosing the Right Breed for You: Akita or Scottish Terrier?

Not sure which dog to choose? Akita or Scottish Terrier—find out which breed matches your lifestyle, personality, and what you’re looking for in a furry friend!

Final Recap

• Akitas are big, protective, and need space. They’re great for experienced owners with room to move around.
• Scottish Terriers are small, confident, and do well in smaller spaces like apartments. They need regular walks and training.

Your choice depends on how much space you have, how active you are, and how much time you can spend on training. Akitas need more room and experience, while Scottish Terriers are a good fit for smaller homes and active families.

Encouragement and First Steps

Think about your lifestyle—how much space and time you have for a dog. Research more or connect with other dog owners to learn more.

What to Do Next?

We’d love to hear about your experiences with Akitas or Scottish Terriers. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with other dog lovers to help make your decision easier.

FAQs About Akitas and Scottish Terriers

Bill Ivey

Pet trainer with a passion for helping animals and owners build strong, loving bonds through positive reinforcement and expert care.