What is the Difference Between Akita and Akita Inu?

The main difference between Akita and Akita Inu lies in their appearance, size, and temperament. Here are the key differences between the two breeds:

1. Appearance: The Akita Inu, also known as the Japanese Akita, has a more fox-like appearance, while the American Akita has a bear-like head and a heavier build. The Japanese Akita has a more pointy snout and slightly smaller head compared to the American Akita. Additionally, the Akita Inu has almond-shaped eyes, while the American Akita has smaller, deep-set eyes.
2. Size: The American Akita is larger than the Japanese Akita. Depending on gender, the American Akita grows anywhere from 24 to 26 inches tall, while the Japanese Akita only reaches 23 to 25 inches tall. The American Akita can weigh between 100 and 130 pounds, while the Japanese Akita weighs between 65 and 75 pounds.
3. Colors: The American Akita comes in a variety of colors, including tan and brown shades. In contrast, the Japanese Akita only comes in brindle, red, and black colorations.
4. Temperament: The American Akita is generally calmer, more aloof, and more dominant with other dogs compared to the Japanese Akita. Both breeds are known for their dominant nature and require a firm hand in training. They can be stubborn and aggressive towards dogs of the same gender, particularly the Japanese Akita.
5. Origin and Purpose: The Japanese Akita was originally bred for hunting, while the American Akita was bred as a guard dog. This difference in their original purposes may contribute to the variations in their temperaments and sizes.

Comparative Table: Akita vs Akita Inu

The Akita Inu and the Akita are both breeds of dogs that originated in Japan, but they have some notable differences. Here is a table comparing the two breeds:

The Akita Inu is generally smaller and more fox-like in appearance, while the Akita is larger and has a broader head. The Akita Inu was bred to hunt small game such as rabbits, whereas the Akita was bred to hunt larger game like deer, wild boar, brown bears, and elk. In the US and Canada, both the American Akita and the Akita Inu are considered a single breed with differences in type rather than two separate breeds.