Akita Inu vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison

Akita Inu vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed ComparisonAkita Inu is originated from Japan but Fox Terrier (Smooth) is originated from United Kingdom. Akita Inu may grow 30 cm / 12 inches higher than Fox Terrier (Smooth). Akita Inu may weigh 30 kg / 67 pounds more than Fox Terrier (Smooth). Both Akita Inu and Fox Terrier (Smooth) has same life span. Both Akita Inu and Fox Terrier (Smooth) has almost same litter size. Both Akita Inu and Fox Terrier (Smooth) requires Moderate maintenance.

History

akita inu - historyThe Akita Inu, originating from Japan's snowy Akita Prefecture, has a long-standing legacy as a powerful hunting dog and loyal companion. Bred in the 1600s to track large game like boar and bear, the Akita quickly earned its place among Japanese nobility as a guardian and symbol of courage.

Its dignified nature and unwavering loyalty were immortalized in the true story of Hachikō, an Akita who waited nearly a decade for his deceased owner at a Tokyo train station. This devotion captured national and global admiration, leading to the breed’s recognition as a national treasure in Japan.

After World War II, American soldiers introduced Akitas to the West, giving rise to a larger, more robust variation known as the American Akita. Today, the Akita Inu remains a cherished breed worldwide for its strength, loyalty, and quiet dignity.

fox terrier smooth - historyThe Smooth Fox Terrier is one of two Fox Terrier breeds, the other being the Wirehaired Fox Terrier. Fox Terriers are believed to be one of the oldest terrier breeds and the ancestor of many terriers who came after. The Fox Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885 and the smooth Fox Terrier as a separate breed 100 years later in 1985. Some clubs still consider the two types of Fox Terriers as the same breed. The standard for smooth Fox Terrier was written in 1876 but not accepted until 1985.

Both breeds of Fox Terriers are thought to originate in the late 1800’s descended from various British Terriers, the beagle, the dachshund and the Fox Hound. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a base coat that is white. The hunters bred them this way, so they would not mistake them for the fox during the hunt. They have also been very successful in prestigious dog shows including Crufts in England and New York Westminster in the United States.

They are not that popular today unless you are hunting and showing them in Confirmation Competitions. However, the Smooth Fox Terrier is significant because of all the terriers that consider it their direct ancestor. This would include the Jack Russel, the Rat Terrier and the Miniature Fox Terrier.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
Origin:
Japan
United Kingdom
Height Male:
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
36 - 41 cm
14 - 17 inches
Height Female:
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
33 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
Weight Male:
32 - 39 kg
70 - 86 pounds
7 - 9 kg
15 - 20 pounds
Weight Female:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
6 - 8 kg
13 - 18 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 15 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
7 - 10
6 - 8
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Japanese Akita, American Akita, Great Japanese Dog , Akita
Smooths Fox Terrier Smooth Coat, Foxy, SFT
Colors Available:
White, Red Fawn, Sesame, Brindle
white with brown, black, tan or ginger markings
Coat:
Double coat
dense, flat
Shedding:
Constant
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Courageous, Energetic, Independent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet
Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Playful, Social, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

Description

akita inu puppy - descriptionThe Akita Inu is a large, powerful, and dignified dog breed known for its striking appearance, quiet nature, and unwavering loyalty.

Originating from Japan, it has a broad head, erect triangular ears, and a plush double coat that comes in red, white, brindle, or sesame, with characteristic urajiro (whitish markings). The Akita carries itself with pride and confidence, often aloof with strangers but deeply affectionate and protective toward its family.

Calm, intelligent, and strong-willed, the breed requires early socialization and firm, consistent training. Though not ideal for first-time owners, the Akita Inu is a loyal guardian and devoted companion for those who understand and respect its independent spirit.

fox terrier smooth puppy - descriptionThe Smooth Fox Terrier is distinguished from the Wirehaired and other terriers by his V-shaped head and white based coat. The coat can have tan, black and black and tan marks on the white coat. The Smooth Fox Terrier is sturdy, strong, sleek and symmetrical. The breed has a short back, and proportioned legs. The Smooth Fox Terrier has a flat skull and tapered muzzle. The nose is black, and the eyes are dark. He has v-shaped ears and a docked tail. Docking is no longer legal throughout the United Kingdom.

Characteristics

akita inu dog - characteristicsThe Akita Inu is a large, noble, and powerful breed known for its dignified presence, strong loyalty, and quiet confidence. Originally bred for hunting and guarding, Akitas are naturally protective, courageous, and independent thinkers.

They form deep bonds with their family but are often aloof with strangers. Calm and clean by nature, they rarely bark without reason and carry themselves with elegance and strength.

Their double coat is thick and weather-resistant, requiring regular grooming, and they shed heavily, especially seasonally.

While intelligent, Akitas can be stubborn, so they thrive best with experienced owners who can offer consistent training and leadership. With proper care and socialization, the Akita Inu is a devoted, majestic companion.

Characteristics

fox terrier smooth dog - characteristicsChildren friendliness They shouldn’t be trusted with young children but if raised with older children ok

Special talents

They are good at performing tricks, Search and rescue, narcotics detection, tracking, and disability assistance.

Adaptability

Fox Terrier is adaptable and can live anywhere. He is not a big dog but remember he is very high energy.

Learning ability

They have very good learning ability and are very intelligent but can be stubborn

Health Problems

akita inu puppies - health problemsThe Akita Inu is generally a strong and resilient breed, but it is prone to several genetic and breed-specific health issues.

Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and hypothyroidism, all of which can affect mobility, vision, and metabolism.

The breed is also susceptible to autoimmune disorders like VKH-like syndrome and sebaceous adenitis, a skin condition causing hair loss and irritation. Additionally, Akitas may experience bloat (gastric torsion), a life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested dogs.

Regular veterinary care, proper diet, and responsible breeding practices are essential to help minimize health risks and ensure a long, healthy life.

fox terrier smooth puppies - health problemsOne of the major problems for the Smooth Fox Terrier that the Wirehaired does not face is the potential for deafness. This is an issue in dogs that are mostly white in color. Other concerns that he does share with the Wirehaired Terrier are:

  1. Distichiasis
  2. Eye lash in an abnormal place causing pain
  3. Legg-Perthes Disease
  4. Causes a very serious muscle loss in the dog’s legs
  5. Shoulder Dislocation
  6. Causes pain and arthritis
  7. Post-nasal Drip
  8. Just annoying
  9. Mast Cell Tumor
  10. Cancer – could be fatal
  11. Myasthenia Gravis

Causes muscle weakness and problems swallowing.

Caring The Pet

akita inu dogs - caringCaring for an Akita Inu involves commitment, consistency, and understanding of the breed's unique needs. They require regular grooming, especially during seasonal shedding, with brushing at least 2–3 times a week and daily during coat blow periods.

Akitas thrive on routine exercise, such as long walks or playtime in a secure area, but they aren’t overly energetic. Training and socialization should start early, using positive reinforcement and calm, firm leadership to manage their independent and protective nature.

They are best suited to homes where they are the only pet or properly introduced to others. Akitas are clean, quiet, and typically bond closely with their family, so providing mental stimulation, affection, and clear boundaries is key.

Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and proper social interaction help keep your Akita healthy, happy, and well-adjusted.

Feeding the puppy

fox terrier smooth dogs - caringFeed 2-3 meals per day and divide 1/8-1/4 cup

Feeding the adult

Feed two meals per day and divide ½ cup

Points for Good Health

hearing and vision

Games and Exercises

The Smooth Fox Terrier is an athlete requiring a lot of exercise. Take him on long walks and play with him in a large fenced yard. Don’t coup him up in the house. Be careful not to exercise him off leash as he will chase anything that moves and will not come when called. They need mental stimulation as well as physical. They are good at hunting, agility, tracking, performing tricks and being a watchdog.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Akita Inu vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  2. Akita Inu vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  3. Akita Inu vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  4. Akita Inu vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  5. Akita Inu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  6. Akita Inu vs Samoyed - Breed Comparison
  7. Akita Inu vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  8. Akita Inu vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  9. Akita Inu vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  10. Akita Inu vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  11. Akita Inu vs Presa Canario - Breed Comparison
  12. Akita Inu vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  13. Akita Inu vs Labrador Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Akita Inu vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  15. Akita Inu vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  16. Akita Inu vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  17. Akita Inu vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Akita Inu vs Goldador - Breed Comparison
  19. Akita Inu vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  20. Akita Inu vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  21. Akita Inu vs Dogo Cubano - Breed Comparison
  22. Akita Inu vs Dogo Sardesco - Breed Comparison
  23. Akita Inu vs Beauceron - Breed Comparison
  24. Akita Inu vs Central Asian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Akita Inu vs Mackenzie River Husky - Breed Comparison
  26. Schnauzer vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  27. Irish Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  28. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  30. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Fox Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Bull and Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  35. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Blue Paul Terrier - Breed Comparison
  37. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Brazilian Terrier - Breed Comparison
  38. Kerry Blue Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  39. Lakeland Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  40. Jagdterrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  41. Indian Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  42. Irish Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  43. Japanese Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  44. Old English Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  45. Scoland Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  46. Skye Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  47. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  48. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  49. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison
  50. Welsh Terrier vs Fox Terrier (Smooth) - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds