Breed Comparison: Japanese Akita vs American Akita (2024)
Last updated on March 10th, 2024 at 04:18 pm
Have you ever seen Akita dogs on the internet and wondered if they come in different varieties? Well, there are actually two types of Akitas: the Japanese Akita Inu and the American Akita. Although they share a common ancestor and have thick double coats and unwavering loyalty, they have some key differences.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of Akitas and compare these two types. By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll be able to confidently tell the difference between the Japanese and American Akita and decide which one could be the better fit for your lifestyle.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: History and origin
Both the Japanese Akita and American Akita share a rich history rooted in the mountainous regions of northern Japan. Their ancestry can be traced back thousands of years, with depictions of similar dogs appearing on ancient pottery and bronze bells. While their paths diverged after World War II, both breeds continue to be cherished for their loyalty, intelligence, and regal presence.
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Developed in the early 17th century for hunting and guarding duties.
- Designated a natural monument in Japan in 1931, highlighting their cultural significance.
- The world remembers the iconic story of Hachiko, a Japanese Akita who famously waited for his deceased owner at the train station for years.
- After World War II, Japanese breeders focused on preserving the original “Matagi-inu” type, known for their athletic build and leaner frame.
American Akita:
- Introduced to the US in the 1930s through Helen Keller and American servicemen returning from Japan.
- Breeders favored a larger, bonier build with a thicker coat and broader head than Japanese Akita.
- The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the American Akita as a distinct breed in 1972.
- While not recognized as a true Akita by the Japanese Kennel Club, the American Akita remains a popular breed known for their loyal and protective nature.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Size and appearance
While both breeds share the iconic Akita spitz features, their appearances have diverged due to selective breeding practices. Let’s delve into the details:
Size:
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Height: 24-26 inches (females), 26-28 inches (males).
- Weight: 70-100 pounds (females), 80-100 pounds (males).
- Build: Leaner and more agile, often described as “fox-like.”
American Akita:
- Height: 24-26 inches (females), 26-28 inches (males).
- Weight: 70-130 pounds (females), 100-130 pounds (males).
- Build: Stockier and heavier-boned, with a more “bear-like” appearance.
Coat:
Both breeds: Double coat with a thick undercoat and a harsh outer coat.
Japanese Akita Inu: Slightly shorter and straighter coat compared to the American Akita.
American Akita: Thicker and denser coat with more plume on the tail and legs.
Coloring:
Japanese Akita Inu: Only allowed in red, white, or brindle with urajiro (lighter shading on the muzzle, chest, and underside).
American Akita: Wider variety of colors accepted, including solid white, black, red, fawn, brindle, and various combinations with white markings.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Temperament and personality
Both the Japanese Akita and the American Akita are known for their loyalty, independence, and dignified demeanor. However, their individual personalities have been shaped by their breeding history and selection for different purposes.
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Strengths:
- Loyal and devoted companions, forming strong bonds with their families.
- Alert and protective, making excellent watchdogs.
- Generally calm and composed, with a quiet dignity.
- Challenges:
- Can be reserved and aloof with strangers, requiring proper socialization.
- Strong prey drive, necessitating careful management around smaller animals.
- Independent thinkers, requiring experienced owners who can provide firm yet gentle training.
American Akita:
- Strengths:
- Confident and outgoing, often enjoying interaction with people.
- Loyal and protective, making excellent family guardians.
- Adaptable and trainable with consistent and positive reinforcement.
- Challenges:
- Can be dominant and territorial, requiring early socialization and training to prevent aggression.
- High energy levels, necessitating regular exercise and mental stimulation.
- May not be suitable for homes with young children or other pets due to their potential for dominance.
It’s important to remember that individual dogs within each breed can vary in personality. Responsible breeders prioritize temperament testing and socialization to ensure their puppies develop into well-adjusted adults.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Energy level and exercise needs
While both Akitas are considered moderate-energy dogs, their specific exercise needs do differ slightly:
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Energy Level: Generally calmer and require less exercise compared to the American Akita.
- Exercise Needs: A daily walk or playtime session, combined with mental stimulation, should suffice for most individuals.
- Additional Considerations: Due to their independent nature, they may benefit from training walks to ensure proper leash manners and focus.
American Akita:
- Energy Level: Possess higher energy levels and require more consistent exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
- Exercise Needs: Daily walks, playtime sessions, and additional activities like jogging or hiking are recommended.
- Additional Considerations: Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to manage their potential dominance and ensure proper handling of their energy levels.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Trainability and intelligence
Both the Japanese Akita and the American Akita are intelligent dogs capable of learning various commands and tricks. However, their approaches to training and their respective stubborn streaks require nuanced handling.
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Trainability: Can be independent thinkers and require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement during training.
- Intelligence: Highly intelligent and possess strong problem-solving skills.
- Training Considerations: Early socialization and gentle, reward-based training are key to building trust and establishing a positive training relationship. Their independent nature necessitates clear and consistent communication.
American Akita:
- Trainability: Generally more eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
- Intelligence: Intelligent and capable of learning various commands.
- Training Considerations: Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to manage their potential dominance and ensure proper handling. Consistent training with firm yet gentle guidance is recommended.
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Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Grooming needs
Both Akitas boast thick double coats that require regular maintenance to stay healthy and prevent matting. However, their specific grooming needs differ slightly:
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Brushing: Requires brushing at least once a week, and more frequently during shedding seasons (spring and fall) to remove loose fur and prevent matting.
- Bathing: Due to their naturally clean coat, bathing only every 3-4 months or as needed is recommended. Overbathing can strip their coat of essential oils and dry out their skin.
- Coat Maintenance: Regular brushing helps distribute natural oils and maintain a healthy coat. Additional tools like an undercoat rake can be used during shedding periods.
American Akita:
- Brushing: Similar to the Japanese Akita, weekly brushing is essential, with increased frequency during shedding seasons.
- Bathing: Similar to the Japanese Akita, bathing every 3-4 months or as needed is recommended to avoid drying out their skin and coat.
- Coat Maintenance: Regular brushing and professional grooming every few months can help manage their thicker coat and prevent matting.
Remember, consistent grooming is crucial for both breeds to maintain a healthy and beautiful coat. By implementing a regular grooming routine and using appropriate tools, you can ensure your Akita companion looks and feels their best.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Lifespan and health
Lifespan:
Japanese Akita Inu: Average lifespan of 10-12 years.
American Akita: Average lifespan of 10-13 years.
While both breeds share similar lifespans, note that these are just averages, and individual dogs can live longer or shorter lives depending on various factors like genetics, overall health care, and lifestyle.
Common health concerns:
Both breeds:
- Hip dysplasia: A common developmental condition affecting the hip joints.
- Bloat (Gastric torsion): A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood circulation.
- Hypothyroidism: A hormonal imbalance that can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
Japanese Akita Inu:
- Sebaceous adenitis: An autoimmune skin disease causing hair loss and inflammation.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disease leading to blindness.
American Akita:
- Chondrodysplasia: A skeletal growth disorder affecting the cartilage.
- VWD (von Willebrand’s disease): A blood clotting disorder.
There are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you choose a responsible breeder who checks the health of their dogs. That way, you can avoid any inherited health issues. Second, go for regular checkups with your vet to catch any potential problems early. Finally, make sure you give your Akita a balanced diet, plenty of exercise, and preventive healthcare to keep them healthy and happy.
Japanese Akita vs American Akita: Suitability for different lifestyles
Choosing the right dog breed depends heavily on your lifestyle and living situation. Here’s a breakdown of which Akita might be a better fit for different scenarios:
Apartment living:
- Japanese Akita Inu: Their generally lower energy levels and calmer demeanor make them potentially better suited for apartment living, provided they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation.
- American Akita: Their higher energy requirements and larger size might pose challenges in smaller living spaces.
Active families:
- American Akita: Their energetic nature and trainability make them good companions for active families who can provide them with ample exercise and outdoor activities.
- Japanese Akita Inu: While adaptable, their independent nature and lower energy levels might not be ideal for highly active families seeking a constant playmate.
First-time dog owners:
- Neither breed: Both Akitas require experienced owners due to their potential for independence, stubbornness, and strong prey drive. They demand consistent training, patience, and an understanding of their specific needs.
Homes with young children or other pets:
- Both breeds: Careful consideration is necessary. Early socialization and training are crucial for both breeds to ensure proper interaction with children and other pets. Their strong prey drive and potential dominance could pose challenges in multi-pet households.
Which is better American Akita or Japanese Akita?
Despite sharing a common ancestry, these two magnificent breeds have evolved in such distinct and intriguing ways.
What is the difference between Japanese Akita and American Akita? Here are key points of comparison:
- Size and appearance: The Japanese Akita is leaner and slightly smaller, while the American Akita is stockier and has a thicker coat.
- Temperament: Both are loyal and protective, but the Japanese Akita is generally calmer and more reserved, while the American Akita is more outgoing and trainable.
- Energy level and exercise needs: The Japanese Akita requires moderate exercise, while the American Akita needs more consistent activity.
- Trainability: Both are intelligent, but the Japanese Akita requires patience and gentle training, while the American Akita responds well to positive reinforcement methods.
- Grooming needs: Both have thick double coats requiring regular brushing, with occasional bathing.
- Lifespan and health: Both have similar lifespans, but each breed is prone to specific health concerns.
- Suitability: The Japanese Akita might be better suited for apartment living and calmer families, while the American Akita could thrive in active households with experienced owners.
Ultimately, the best Akita for you is the one that best complements your lifestyle, living situation, and ability to provide for their specific needs.
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