Comparison: American Akita and Chow Chow

American Akita and Chow Chow are marked as similar in our database. The table compares only the data we have on the breeds.

	American Akita	Chow Chow
FCI group	5. Spitz and primitive types	5. Spitz and primitive types
Country of origin	Japan	China
Category	Large	Large
Height at withers	–	46–56 cm
Weight	–	20–32 kg
Life span	–	9–12 years
Recognition features	Large, powerful dog with broad wedge-shaped head and small erect ears Large well-furred tail carried over the back in one or two curls Any colour including pinto and brindle; solid white dogs have no mask	Blue-black tongue Lion-like mane and thick plush coat Stocky build and short square muzzle
Coat	Double coat: thick, soft, dense undercoat and straight, harsh/stiff outer coat; any colour including pinto and brindle.	Dense straight outer coat (smooth or rough); red, black, blue, cream.
Purpose	Large companion dog developed in the USA from Japanese Akitas; powerful and dignified.	An ancient Chinese dog used for hunting, hauling and guarding, also for meat and fur; the blue tongue is a hallmark.

Breed page: American Akita · Breed page: Chow Chow

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The information is indicative. Texts are based on available sources and may contain inaccuracies; for binding details (e.g. for breeding or shows) use the official breed standard.