When it comes to comparing guard dog breeds, there are many similarities between the pitbull vs akita. They are large and imposing, often wary of strangers and loyal to their families. But what differences separate these two dog breeds from each other, and what similarities drive them together?
In this article, we will take a closer look at the pitbull as well as the akita so that you can get a full understanding of both of these dog breeds. We will take a look at their appearances as well as their ancestors and behaviors in case you are considering adopting either of these wonderful dogs. Let’s get started and dive in now!
Comparing Pitbull vs Akita
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| Pitbull | Akita | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 13-24 inches tall; 25-80 pounds | 24-28 inches; 70-130 pounds |
| Appearance | Large head and compact body found in a variety of colors. Short, erect ears and a long, straight tail. Short and soft fur; highly muscular and powerful frame | Large and impressive frame with a fluffy, thick coat. Only found in black, white, brown, red, and gray. Erect ears, curled tail, and round face. |
| Ancestry | Developed in 19th century England or Scotland for a variety of illegal fighting activities, including bull and dog fighting | Originated in Japan in the 17th century, kept by royalty. Bred for hunting among the rich and elite. |
| Behavior | Very loyal, affectionate, and kind to the people it trusts. Has a bad rap and a lot of bias toward the breed, which is largely unfounded. Still requires ample exercise and a firm hand during training to avoid any issues, but makes an ideal guard and family dog | Alert, wary, and protective of their people. Can be difficult to train and can be naturally suspicious of strangers and other dogs. Eager to work and take care of its pack once they feel comfortable, and makes a great guard dog |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years | 10-14 years |
Key Differences Between Pitbull vs Akita
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There are many key differences between the akita and the pitbull. The akita grows larger in both height and weight compared to the pitbull. Additionally, the fur of the pitbull is much shorter compared to the fluffy coat of the akita. The akita is a much older dog breed compared to the pitbull, and they were bred for very different reasons. Finally, the stereotypes surrounding pitbulls are typically more negative compared to the akita.
Let’s take a closer look at both of these dog breeds now.
Pitbull vs Akita: Size
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Overall, the akita is larger than the pitbull, in both height and weight. While the height of the dog depends on the gender of the pitbull, the akita still outweighs the pitbull at any age and across both genders. Let’s take a closer look at the figures now.
Overall, the pitbull reaches anywhere from 13-24 inches tall, while the akita averages 24-28 inches tall. This means that their smallest size is the largest possibility for the average pitbull! Additionally, the akita reaches an average weight of 70-130 pounds, while the pitbull only reaches 25-80 pounds total.
Pitbull vs Akita: Appearance
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You can easily tell a pitbull apart from an akita upon first glance. There are many physical differences that separate them, though both come in a variety of colors. However, the akita only comes in black, white, brown, red, and gray, while the pitbull comes in all of these colors and more! Both of these dogs have erect ears, though the tail of the akita is curled, while the tail of the pitbull is straight.
The main difference that separates these dogs from one another is their coat. For example, the akita has a thick and fluffy double coat, perfect for winter and cold weather, while the pitbull has extremely short fur in a single layer. In fact, most pitbulls get cold in the winter time, which is definitely not something that happens to the akita!
Pitbull vs Akita: Ancestry and Breeding
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There are some significant differences between the ancestries and breeding requirements of these two dog breeds. For example, the pitbull originated in either England or Scotland during the 19th century, while the akita originated in Japan sometime during the 17th century, if not before this point. Akita dogs are one of the original dog breeds from Japan.
The reasons that these dogs were bred in the first place also differ from one another. The akita was prized as a royal hunting dog, often held in high esteem, while the pitbull was bred for illegal bullfighting and dog fighting activities. Thankfully, both of these dogs enjoy companionship and domesticated bliss compared to their potentially harrowing pasts.
Pitbull vs Akita: Behavior
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Both the akita and the pitbull have a number of negative stereotypes surrounding their behavior, though the pitbull often gets a worse rap compared to the akita. Both of these dog breeds thrive under a firm hand and consistent training, though the akita is frequently more stubborn during training compared to the pitbull.
Additionally, the pitbull is more compassionate with its family compared to the aloof and alert akita. However, both of these dogs are fantastic for guarding their families as well as protecting property, though this is why it is extremely important to train them properly. Aggression is possible in both of these breeds without compassion and a firm hand.
Pitbull vs Akita: Lifespan
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The final difference between the pitbull and the akita is their life spans. The pitbull lives slightly longer than the akita, likely due to the fact that they are smaller overall. However, both of these dog breeds are healthy and reliable, and their lifespans often overlap. For example, the akita lives an average of 10 to 14 years, while the pitbull lives an average of 10 to 15 years. With plenty of exercise and a well-balanced diet, both of these dogs can live long and happy lives!
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