Disclosure: Our content is reader-supported, which means we earn commissions from some links on Pet Chao. Commissions do not affect our editorial evaluations or opinions.

Akita vs Pitbull: Which is the Best Fit for You? (2024)

Last updated on March 10th, 2024 at 04:18 pm

The Akita and the Pitbull, both renowned for their dedication and strength, often spark debate among dog enthusiasts. While both breeds share these admirable qualities, their unique personalities, needs, and historical backgrounds paint distinct pictures.

Today, we delve into the fascinating world of these two popular canines, ultimately helping you decide which breed might be the perfect fit for your home.

Akita vs Pitbull: History and origin

Akita:

  • Hailing from the mountainous regions of Japan, the Akita’s ancestry dates back centuries, serving as a prized hunting companion for nobility.
  • Renowned for their courage and strength, these dogs were instrumental in tackling large prey like wild boar and even bears.
  • Their unwavering loyalty and dignified demeanor earned them the honor of being declared a national treasure of Japan in 1931.

Pitbull:

  • Emerging in the 19th century, the Pitbull’s origins are a blend of various terrier and bulldog breeds, likely from England or Ireland.
  • Initially bred for tasks like bull-baiting and dog fighting, these activities were thankfully outlawed, leading to a shift towards developing the Pitbull as a working dog and loyal companion.
  • Despite their historical association with these controversial practices, Pitbulls are inherently loving and athletic dogs, earning them a dedicated following for their playful personalities and eagerness to please.

Akita vs Pitbull: Size and appearance

akita vs pitbull

Size:

Akita: These majestic dogs are larger and heavier, with males typically standing 26-28 inches tall and weighing 100-130 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, averaging 24-26 inches in height and 70-100 pounds in weight.

Pitbull: Known for their athletic build, Pitbulls are smaller and lighter than Akitas. Males generally stand 18-21 inches tall and weigh 50-60 pounds, while females are slightly shorter and lighter, averaging 17-19 inches and 30-40 pounds.

Coat type:

Akita: Akitas boast a double coat, featuring a thick, plush undercoat and a harsh, straight outer coat. This luxurious coat requires regular brushing to maintain its splendor.

Pitbull: Pitbulls have a short, smooth coat that is relatively easy to groom. However, regular brushing is still recommended to manage shedding.

Coloring:

Akita: Akitas come in a variety of stunning colors, including red, white, and brindle.

Pitbull: Pitbulls exhibit an even wider range of colors, including brindle, fawn, black, white, and various combinations.

Beyond size and coat, subtle differences also exist in their facial features. Akitas have a broader head with triangular ears, while Pitbulls have a slightly narrower head with smaller, floppy ears.

Akita vs Pitbull: Temperament and personality

Akita:

  • Independent and dignified: Akitas have a strong sense of independence and need experienced owners who can train them consistently, firmly, yet gently.
  • Loyal and affectionate: Deeply devoted to their families, Akitas form strong bonds with their loved ones and shower them with affection.
  • Protective instincts: Akitas are naturally protective of their territory and families, requiring proper socialization from an early age to ensure they interact appropriately with strangers and other animals.
  • Can be territorial with other dogs: Akitas, particularly males, can exhibit territorial tendencies towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. 

Pitbull:

  • Eager to please and playful: Pitbulls are known for their boundless energy, playful nature, and eagerness to please their owners. They excel in training and thrive on positive reinforcement methods.
  • Affectionate and family-oriented: Pitbulls form strong bonds with their families and shower them with affection, making them excellent companions for active individuals and families.
  • Generally good with children: When properly socialized, Pitbulls can be wonderful companions for children. However, responsible supervision is always recommended for any interaction between dogs and children.
  • Social: Pitbulls typically enjoy the company of other dogs and thrive in social settings when properly socialized.

Akita vs Pitbull: Energy level and exercise needs

akita vs pitbull

Akita:

  • Moderate energy level: While Akitas enjoy daily walks and playtime, they are not as high-energy as some other breeds. They tend to be content with moderate exercise, such as a brisk walk or playtime in the yard, for around an hour each day.
  • Independent play: Akitas can also entertain themselves with independent play, making them suitable for busy owners.

Pitbull:

  • High energy level: Pitbulls are known for their boundless energy and require regular exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. Aim for at least one to two hours of daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and activities that engage their minds, such as training or interactive toys.
  • Active lifestyle: Pitbulls thrive in active lifestyles and are excellent companions for individuals who enjoy running, hiking, or participating in dog sports.

Akita vs Pitbull: Trainability and intelligence

Akita:

  • Independent thinkers: Akitas are known for their independent nature and can sometimes be stubborn during training. They require patient, consistent, and positive reinforcement methods to effectively learn and follow commands.
  • Strong-willed: Akitas can be strong-willed and may try to test their boundaries. Early socialization and consistent leadership are crucial for establishing a respectful and trusting relationship.
  • Respond well to positive reinforcement: Akitas thrive on positive reinforcement training methods, such as treats, praise, and affection, for their desired behavior.

Pitbull:

  • Eager to please: Pitbulls are renowned for their eagerness to please their owners and excel in training when motivated by positive reinforcement. They are quick learners and enjoy the mental stimulation that training provides.
  • Energetic learners: Pitbulls’ high energy levels can sometimes translate into enthusiasm during training sessions. Channel their energy by keeping training sessions short, engaging, and varied.
  • Prone to overexcitement: Pitbulls can become easily excited, potentially leading to distractions during training. Use calm, consistent commands and rewards to maintain focus.

Many readers have loved learning how to train their dogs based on scientific methods from a free workshop conducted by Dr. Alexa Diaz (one of the top service dog trainers in the U.S.) and Eric Presnall (host of the hit Animal Planet TV show “Who Let the Dogs Out”) at the K9 Training Institute. In the free online dog training workshop, you’ll discover:

    1. How to train your dog using body language rather than verbal cues
    2. The 3 key techniques that service dog trainers use to train dogs and how you can use them too
    3. The most important step that “normal” dog owners have been missing (this is very important to get your dog’s attention, and it works 100% of the time)
    4. How to stop bad behaviors like excessive barking, pulling on the leash, jumping, etc.
    5. Why a lot of dog owners are unable to establish the amazing bond that service dog trainers have with their dogs

Etc.

Whether your dog is a puppy or an adult, this pre-recorded workshop will help you train them successfully. You may not want to miss the chance to learn these groundbreaking techniques. Here’s the free workshop.

Akita vs Pitbull: Grooming needs

akita vs pitbull

Akita:

  • Double coat: Akitas have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year and requires regular brushing to prevent matting and excessive shedding.
  • Brushing: Brushing your Akita at least 2-3 times a week is crucial, with daily brushing during shedding seasons recommended.
  • Bathing: Akitas don’t require frequent bathing, typically only every 3-4 months or when they get excessively dirty. Over-bathing can strip their coat of natural oils.
  • Additional grooming: Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and checking for skin irritations are essential for maintaining your Akita’s overall health and well-being.

Pitbull:

  • Short coat: Pitbulls have a short, smooth coat that sheds moderately and requires minimal grooming compared to Akitas.
  • Brushing: Brushing your Pitbull once or twice a week is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy.
  • Bathing: Similar to Akitas, Pitbulls don’t need frequent baths, typically every 2-3 months or as needed.
  • Additional grooming: Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and checking for skin irritations are important.

Akita vs Pitbull: Lifespan and health

Lifespan:

Akita: The average lifespan of an Akita is 10-13 years.

Pitbull: The average lifespan of a Pitbull is slightly longer, ranging from 12-16 years.

It’s important to remember that these are just averages, and individual dogs within each breed can live longer or shorter lives depending on various factors, including genetics, overall health care, and lifestyle.

Common health concerns:

Akita:

  • Hip dysplasia: A common condition in large breeds, affecting the hip joint development.
  • Bloat: A life-threatening stomach condition that can occur in deep-chested dogs.
  • Hypothyroidism: A hormonal imbalance that can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
  • Sebaceous adenitis: A skin condition causing hair loss and inflammation.

Pitbull:

  • Hip dysplasia: Similar to Akitas, Pitbulls can also be susceptible to hip dysplasia.
  • Atopic dermatitis: A skin allergy that can cause itching, redness, and inflammation.
  • Cardiac disease: Certain types of heart disease can be more prevalent in Pitbulls.
  • Demodectic mange: A skin condition caused by mites, typically treatable.

Akita vs Pitbull: Suitability for different lifestyles

Choosing the right dog breed involves carefully considering your lifestyle and needs. While both Akitas and Pitbulls are loyal and loving companions, their distinct personalities and requirements make them better suited for certain living situations:

Akita:

Ideal for:

  • Experienced dog owners: Their independent nature requires patience, consistent training, and an understanding of their specific needs.
  • Families with older children: Akitas can be wary of strangers and require proper socialization to ensure they interact appropriately with children.
  • Homes with ample space: Their larger size and moderate energy levels necessitate sufficient room for exercise and relaxation.

May not be suitable for:

  • First-time dog owners: Their independent nature and potential stubbornness can pose challenges for inexperienced owners.
  • Homes with young children: Akitas require careful supervision around young children due to their potential for protectiveness.
  • Apartments or small living spaces: Their size and exercise needs may not be well-suited for confined living environments.

Pitbull:

Ideal for:

  • Active individuals and families: Their high energy levels require regular exercise, and they thrive in active lifestyles.
  • Families with children: Properly socialized Pitbulls can be wonderful companions for children due to their playful and affectionate nature.
  • Apartment living: Their smaller size and moderate adaptability can make them suitable for apartment living with proper exercise outlets.

May not be suitable for:

  • Sedentary individuals or families: Their high energy levels require owners who can provide them with ample exercise and mental stimulation.
  • Homes with limited outdoor access: Regular access to outdoor spaces is crucial for their physical and mental well-being.
  • Areas with breed restrictions: Some localities have restrictions on Pitbull ownership, so research local regulations before welcoming one into your home.

Conclusion

akita vs pitbull

We’ve looked into two amazing dog breeds: the Akita and the Pitbull. Each breed has unique qualities, needs, and personalities. 

The Akita is a majestic and loyal guardian with an independent and dignified personality. They are a good fit for experienced and patient homes with enough space. On the other hand, the Pitbull is an energetic and affectionate companion. They are eager to please and adaptable, making them a great fit for active lifestyles, families with kids, and even apartment living with proper exercise. 

Remember, the right breed for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Think about your living situation, activity level, and experience with dogs before making a decision. Regardless of the breed you choose, responsible pet ownership is crucial. Show your chosen companion love, provide them with proper training and care, and you’ll create a lifelong bond.

Becoming a dog parent is one of the most memorable moments of life. But before bringing your new best friend home, it’s vital to have all the right things to make sure the adoption is really smooth and makes them feel right. You may feel overwhelmed by tons of puppy products on sale and not sure what items your puppy actually needs. That’s why we’ve compiled this minimalist puppy checklist to help you get started.

FAQs

Can Akita beat a Pitbull?

It’s impossible to predict the outcome of a fight between any two dogs, regardless of their breed. Encouraging or participating in dog fighting is cruel and illegal. Every dog is an individual, and factors like size, training, temperament, and situational context can significantly influence their behavior in an encounter.

Are Akitas bigger than Pitbulls?

On average, yes. Akitas are generally larger and heavier than Pitbulls. However, there can be variations in size within each breed, and individual dogs may not always conform to these averages.

Is Akita stronger than a Pitbull?

Strength is a complex concept that encompasses various factors beyond just physical size or breed. Comparing the strength of different dog breeds is not only inaccurate but also potentially misleading. Both Akitas and Pitbulls are powerful dogs, and their strength can manifest differently depending on the situation and individual variations.

About us: Pet Chao is a community for Asian dog breed enthusiasts. Our goal is to keep you and your four-legged friend healthy and happy by providing valuable resources and fostering a like-minded community.