When choosing between popular dog breeds like the Akita and Pitbull, it can be tough to decide which is the best fit for your family. Both breeds have loyal fanbases of owners who will swear theirs is superior, but the reality is that both Akitas and Pitbulls have pros and cons.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: While Akitas tend to be calmer and more introverted, Pitbulls are extremely loving and affectionate dogs who crave human interaction. Akitas also shed heavily while Pitbulls have short, easy to groom coats.
Pitbulls may fit better with active families.
To help you make the right choice for your household, this comprehensive guide will compare these two powerful breeds across crucial factors like temperament, trainability, exercise needs, grooming requirements and health issues.
Read on to learn whether the dignified Akita or the energetic Pitbull is better suited to be your new furry best friend!
Akita vs Pitbull History
Origin of the Akita
The Akita is an ancient dog breed that originated in the Akita prefecture in northern Japan. It is believed that the Akita descended from a primitive breed of dog called the Matagi Inu, used for hunting by the Matagi tribes.
The Akita was originally bred as a hunting and guard dog and was occasionally used in dog fighting before these practices were outlawed. In the early 20th century, the Akita nearly went extinct after WWII, but it was revived thanks to the efforts of Japanese breeders.
The Akita was declared a national monument of Japan in 1931.
Origin of the Pitbull
The Pitbull was first bred in the 1800s in the UK by crossing bulldogs and terriers. The intent was to create a dog with the strength and athleticism of the bulldog combined with the agility and tenacity of the terrier.
Pitbulls were initially used for bull baiting and dog fighting, before these cruel sports were banned. When immigrants brought Pitbulls to the US in the mid-1800s, the dogs were used as farm dogs, protecting livestock from predators. Pitbulls also became loved family companions.
Despite their unfortunate past, Pitbulls exhibit undying loyalty and make devoted pets when properly trained and cared for.
Popularity Comparison
Both the Akita and Pitbull gained popularity in the 20th century, but the Akita has consistently ranked as more popular according to AKC registrations. As of 2020, the Akita was ranked #46 while the Pitbull ranked #72.
However, Pitbulls are still quite common in the US with an estimated 4.5 million Pitbulls spread across American households. The Akita is rarer with only around 30,000 Akitas registered with the AKC annually.
The Akita’s popularity surged after featuring prominently in the true story film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. While Pitbulls have a controversial reputation, Akitas are generally viewed as loyal companions and guardians. However, both require extensive training and care.
Akita vs Pitbull Appearance
Akita Physical Features
The Akita is a large and powerful dog with a bear-like head featuring triangular ears, deep-set eyes, and a blunt muzzle. Their body is sturdy and muscular with a straight back and proudly carried tail curled over the back.
Akitas have a thick double-coat that can be various colors like red, white, brindle, or pinto. The average height of an Akita is 24-28 inches and they usually weigh 70-130 pounds.
Pitbull Physical Features
The Pitbull is a medium to large, very muscular dog breed with a square shaped head featuring dropped ears, almond shaped eyes and strong jaws. Pitbulls have a stocky but agile body type with a smooth short coat that can come in many colors and patterns.
The average Pitbull stands 17-21 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 30-90 pounds.
Size Comparison
When comparing the size of an Akita vs a Pitbull, the Akita is clearly the larger of the two breeds. Akitas are 24-28 inches tall weighing 70-130 pounds while Pitbulls are just 17-21 inches tall and 30-90 pounds.
So Akitas are taller by up to 11 inches and heavier by up to 40 pounds than Pitbulls on average.
| Breed | Height | Weight |
| Akita | 24-28 inches | 70-130 pounds |
| Pitbull | 17-21 inches | 30-90 pounds |
So when considering size, the much larger Akita may be too big for some potential owners, while the medium sized Pitbull can suit a wider range of households.
Akita vs Pitbull Temperament
Akita Personality Traits
The Akita is a powerful and courageous dog breed that is known for being loyal and affectionate towards their family. Here are some of the common personality traits of the Akita:
- Extremely loyal and dedicated to their family. They form strong bonds with their owners.
- Intelligent and headstrong. Akitas are working dogs that need proper training and socialization.
- Courageous and will protect their family if needed. They make great guard dogs.
- Reserved towards strangers and can be aggressive with other dogs. Early socialization is a must.
- Calm and dignified indoors. They are moderately active inside.
- Stubborn at times and need a confident owner who can be the alpha.
Pitbull Personality Traits
Despite the negative reputation, Pitbulls can make excellent family pets with proper care and training. Here are some common traits of the Pitbull breed:
- Extremely loyal and affectionate towards their owners. They crave human companionship.
- Energetic and fun-loving. Pitbulls are very exuberant and enjoy playing.
- Intelligent and eager to please. They are highly trainable dogs.
- Courageous and protective of their family. Can make great watchdogs.
- May be dog aggressive due to past breeding. Proper socialization is critical.
- Strong-willed and needs an experienced owner who can be the pack leader.
Temperament Comparison
| Trait | Akita | Pitbull |
|---|---|---|
| Affection for owners | Extremely loyal | Extremely loyal |
| Energy Level | Moderate | High |
| Trainability | Challenging | Eager to please |
| Prey Drive | High | Moderate |
| Guarding Behavior | Excellent guard dog | Good watchdog |
| Child Friendliness | Moderate, supervision needed | Good with socialization |
Akita vs Pitbull Trainability
Training an Akita
Akitas are intelligent but also independent dogs. They are eager to please their owners but need consistent, firm training from an early age. Akitas respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as food rewards, praise, and play.
However, they can have a stubborn streak and may become bored with repetitive training. Patience and persistence are key when training an Akita.
Akitas were originally bred to hunt large game and guard their owners’ property. As a result, they can be strong-willed and domineering if not properly trained and socialized. It’s important to establish yourself as the calm, confident pack leader.
Akitas need daily mental and physical stimulation to prevent problem behaviors like destructiveness. Obedience training and a job to do are musts for this active working breed.
Leash training is essential as Akitas have a strong prey drive and may try to chase small animals or children if not controlled. Socialization from an early age is critical to minimize any aggression towards strangers and unfamiliar dogs.
Owners need to be alert and intervene immediately at the first sign of undesirable behavior. Professional training may be required for Akitas with dominance issues.
Training a Pitbull
The key to successfully training a Pitbull is starting young and using positive reinforcement techniques. Pitbulls are sensitive dogs who aim to please their owners. They respond extremely well to training methods that utilize praise, treats, toys, and play as rewards for good behavior.
Pitbulls are intelligent, athletic, and energetic. They thrive when given regular mental and physical exercise. Owners need to be committed to providing their Pitbull with adequate walks, runs, games, and training sessions.
A bored, under-exercised Pitbull may become destructive or develop other behavioral issues.
Early socialization is imperative for the outgoing but strong-willed Pitbull. Exposure to a wide variety of people, dogs, other animals, places, and situations will help minimize any antisocial tendencies. Pitbulls should be taught how to greet politely and play gently from a young age.
While Pitbulls are obedient dogs, they can be stubborn. Positive reinforcement training helps curb this tendency. Harsh training methods or punishment can make Pitbulls shut down or become aggressive. Owners need patience and consistency when training this affectionate breed.
Trainability Comparison
| Breed | Intelligence | Independence | Prey Drive | Trainability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Akita | High | High | High | Moderate |
| Pitbull | High | Moderate | Moderate | Eager |
Akita vs Pitbull Exercise & Care
Akita Exercise Needs
The Akita, originally bred as a hunting dog in Japan, requires a good amount of exercise each day to remain physically and mentally healthy. An adult Akita will need at least 60 minutes of vigorous activity per day, such as going for long walks, playing fetch, or participating in dog sports like agility.
As a large, active breed, Akitas need substantial daily exercise to prevent problem behaviors from boredom or excess energy. Multiple long walks, hikes, runs, or high-intensity games of fetch are ideal for meeting an Akita’s needs.
Additionally, access to a securely fenced yard gives them space to independently burn energy.
Pitbull Exercise Needs
Though Pitbulls vary some by type (American Pit Bull Terrier vs. American Staffordshire Terrier), most Pitbulls require at least 60 to 90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. As muscular, high-energy dogs originally bred for bear hunting and herding cattle, Pitbulls thrive when their physical and mental exercise needs are met.
Daily long walks, jogs, or hikes combined with high-intensity fetch, tug of war games, or access to a large yard or dog park can sufficiently tire out a Pitbull. Additionally, food puzzle toys and training sessions can engage their active minds. An exercised Pitbull is well-behaved in the home.
Grooming Comparison
In terms of grooming needs, both the Akita and Pitbull are relatively easy breeds to care for, requiring only occasional brushing and bathing. Akitas shed heavily a few times per year, while Pitbulls shed moderately year-round.
Both require more frequent nail trims and need their facial wrinkles cleaned regularly.
For both breeds, wiping facial wrinkles with a damp cloth keeps them clean and infection-free. Regular ear cleaning and nail trimming every few weeks promotes good hygiene as well.
Health Issues Comparison
When it comes to major health problems, Akitas are prone to a range of genetic conditions, while Pitbulls tend to have fewer breed-specific illnesses.
| Akitas | Pitbulls |
| – Hip dysplasia (40% affected) | – Hip dysplasia |
| – Bloat | – Skin allergies |
| – Eye issues | – Thyroid disease |
| – Immune disorders | – Knee issues |
| – Blood clotting abnormalities | – Heart disease |
According to (AKC.org), the Akita has a lifespan of 10-13 years while the Pitbull lives 12-16 years (AKC.org). With proper exercise, care and veterinary attention, both can live happily within their expected ranges.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between an Akita and a Pitbull, consider your lifestyle and experience with dogs. Akitas require firm leadership while Pitbulls crave human bonding. Both need daily exercise. Akitas shed heavily while Pitbulls have easy grooming needs.
While Akitas can be calmer, Pitbulls are extremely affectionate and energetic. Well-socialized and trained Pitbulls in an active home are less likely to display aggression issues. Take your time, do your research, and select the breed that best matches your family’s needs.
