Akitas are amazing dogs, but there are two different types of Akitas, American, and Japanese. Most people don’t know about the difference between American and Japanese Akitas, and this can lead to a lot of confusion.
Some people think the American Akita is superior to the Japanese Akita. Others prefer the Japanese Akita over their American cousins. Still, others have no preference whatsoever. Regardless of your feelings, the truth is that they are two very different breeds.
What are the similarities and differences between American and Japanese Akitas? This is a topic that many people have questions about. There are a lot of myths and misinformation out there about the two types of Akitas, so we’re here to set the record straight.
We will discuss their history, characteristics, and personalities. We will also cover how to tell them apart, as well as give you a few facts about both breeds. We’ll start by discussing the history of both breeds, then move on to their physical differences. Finally, we’ll give you our opinion on which type of Akita is better.
American Akita vs Japanese Akita: A Comparison
The American Akita and the Japanese Akita are two distinct breeds of dog, though they share a common ancestry. The American Akita is a larger, more robust dog, while the Japanese Akita is smaller and more refined. Both breeds are loyal and protective, but the American Akita is more outgoing and friendly, while the Japanese Akita is more reserved and aloof. Here is a comparison of the two breeds:
1. Differences in Appearance
When it comes to the Akita breed, two different types are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and they are the American Akita and the Japanese Akita. These two types of Akitas originated from the same place, which is the island of Honshu in Japan. The main difference between the American and Japanese Akitas is their appearance, with the American Akita being the larger of the two breeds.
Face: The Japanese Akita is also known for its more fox-like face, while the American Akita has a bear-like appearance. Both types of Akitas are very loyal and protective dogs that make great companions.
Size: The American Akita is the larger of the two breeds, with males typically weighing between 100 and 130 pounds. The Japanese Akita, on the other hand, only weighs between 70 and 120 pounds.
Fur: Another big difference between these two breeds is their fur. The American Akita has a thick, double coat that can be either straight or slightly curled. The Japanese Akita, on the other hand, only has a single coat that is straight and dense.
Color: The American Akita can come in a variety of colors, including white, brindle, and pinto. The Japanese Akita, however, is only available in two colors which are red and white.
Eyes: The American Akita has small, almond-shaped eyes that are brown or black. The Japanese Akita, on the other hand, has large, round eyes that can be either brown or black.
Nose: The American Akita has a black nose, while the Japanese Akita can have either a black or brown nose.
Ears: The American Akita has small, triangular ears that stand erect, while the Japanese Akita has large, floppy ears that hang down.
Tail: The American Akita has a curled tail that is carried over the back, while the Japanese Akita has a straight tail that is typically carried low.
Head: The American Akita has a large, wedge-shaped head, while the Japanese Akita has a smaller, more triangular head.
Overall, the American Akita is the larger of the two breeds with a more bear-like face, while the Japanese Akita is smaller with a more fox-like face. Both types of Akitas make great companions and are very loyal dogs.
2. History and Origin
The American Akita and the Japanese Akita are two different types of dogs that are often confused for one another. While they may look similar, they are actually quite different in terms of history and origin.
The American Akita is a relatively new breed that was developed in the United States in the early 1900s. Akitas were originally brought to the United States from Japan in the 1920s, but they did not gain popularity until after World War II. American breeders began to develop their own type of Akita, which was larger and had a more bear-like appearance. The American Akita is now recognized as a separate breed from the Japanese Akita by most major kennel clubs (Like, American Cannel Club).
The Japanese Akita, on the other hand, is an ancient breed that has been present in Japan for centuries. Akitas were originally bred for hunting, and they were later used as guard dogs and companion animals.
3. Temperament and Personality Differences
When it comes to temperament, there are some noticeable differences between American and Japanese Akitas. American Akitas tend to be more bold and aloof, while Japanese Akitas are typically more affectionate and attentive.
One of the most striking personality differences between these two breeds is that American Akitas are much more likely to be aggressive towards other dogs, while Japanese Akitas are typically very good with other animals.
4. Trainability Differences
When it comes to Trainability, American Akitas are generally considered to be easier to train than Japanese Akitas. American Akitas typically have a strong work ethic and are quick to learn new tasks, while Japanese Akitas may be more resistant to training and require more patience from their owners.
5. Shedding and Grooming Differences
When it comes to shedding and grooming, there are some notable differences between American and Japanese Akitas. American Akitas tend to shed more than Japanese Akitas, and they also require more frequent grooming. This is likely because American Akitas were bred as working dogs, while Japanese Akitas were bred as companion animals.
American Akitas require weekly brushing to remove dead hair and prevent mats from forming, while Japanese Akitas only need to be brushed every two weeks. American Akitas also require more frequent baths than Japanese Akitas, as they are more likely to get dirty when working or playing.
6. Health Differences
When it comes to health, there are some notable differences between American and Japanese Akitas. American Akitas are more prone to health problems than Japanese Akitas, likely because they were bred as working dogs. Japanese Akitas, on the other hand, were bred as companion animals and thus typically have fewer health problems.
American Akitas are more likely to suffer from hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat than Japanese Akitas. They are also more likely to have allergies and skin problems. Japanese Akitas, on the other hand, are typically very healthy dogs with few health problems.
Similarities Between American and Japanese Akitas
We have compiled all the similar traits of both Akita breeds, these are following;
Both American and Japanese Akitas are:
Loyal: Akitas are fiercely loyal to their family and will do anything to protect them.
Protective: Akitas are protective of their homes and families and will bark at strangers or anything they perceive as a threat.
Intelligent: Akitas are very intelligent dogs and are quick learners.
Strong Willed: Akitas are strong-willed dogs who need firm, consistent training.
Alert: Akitas are always on alert and will bark at anything they perceive as a threat.
Strong: Akitas are strong dogs with muscular bodies.
Facts about both breeds American Akita vs Japanese Akita.
- American Akitas typically have a lifespan of 10-12 years, while Japanese Akitas typically live for 12-14 years. therefore, Japanese Akitas typically have a longer lifespan than American Akitas.
- American Akitas are much more free-spirited than Japanese Akitas. American Akitas are also known to be more headstrong and stubborn, while Japanese Akitas are typically more docile and easygoing.
- Another new fact is that American Akitas are considered a “natural” breed, meaning they have not been bred with any other dog breeds. Japanese Akitas, on the other hand, is considered a “designer” breed, as they have been bred with other dog breeds such as Shiba Inus.
- One final difference between these two breeds is that American Akitas can be any color, while Japanese Akitas must be white.
