Akita Inu vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Akita Inu vs Afghan Hound - Breed ComparisonAfghan Hound is originated from Afghanistan but Akita Inu is originated from Japan. Both Afghan Hound and Akita Inu are having almost same height. Both Afghan Hound and Akita Inu are having almost same weight. Both Afghan Hound and Akita Inu has almost same life span. Afghan Hound may have less litter size than Akita Inu. Afghan Hound requires High Maintenance. But Akita Inu requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Working dog
Origin:
Afghanistan
Japan
Height Male:
68 - 74 cm
26 - 30 inches
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
Height Female:
60 - 69 cm
23 - 28 inches
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
Weight Male:
26 - 34 kg
57 - 75 pounds
32 - 39 kg
70 - 86 pounds
Weight Female:
26 - 34 kg
57 - 75 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 7
7 - 10
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Tazi, Tazhi Spay, Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Ogar Afgan, Barakzai Hound, Eastern Greyhound, and Persian Greyhound
Japanese Akita, American Akita, Great Japanese Dog , Akita
Colors Available:
Black, Red and Cream
White, Red Fawn, Sesame, Brindle
Coat:
Long, Thick and Silky
Double coat
Shedding:
Moderate
Constant
Temperament:
Affectionate, Detached, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Playful
Affectionate, Aggressive, Courageous, Energetic, Independent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet
Grooming:
High Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Hard
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

History

afghan houndThe first known information about Afghan Hound was in the 19th century. That dog looked like a Saluki. The breed that we know today is a mix of an Afghan hound accentor which came to Britain in 1920s and other breeds that were popular in that period. Afghan Hound became popular because they were used to hunt big prays in Afghanistan. One of those breeds was Tasy breed. They were very popular among royalty because of its posture and elegance. Their popularity grew very quickly through the whole Europe.

They were also very popular because they were used to hunt antelopes, gazelles, and snow panthers. In India, English soldiers used them as a mail carrier.

akita inuThe Akita Inu, originating from Japan's snowy Akita Prefecture, has a long-standing legacy as a powerful hunting dog and loyal companion. Bred in the 1600s to track large game like boar and bear, the Akita quickly earned its place among Japanese nobility as a guardian and symbol of courage.

Its dignified nature and unwavering loyalty were immortalized in the true story of Hachikō, an Akita who waited nearly a decade for his deceased owner at a Tokyo train station. This devotion captured national and global admiration, leading to the breed’s recognition as a national treasure in Japan.

After World War II, American soldiers introduced Akitas to the West, giving rise to a larger, more robust variation known as the American Akita. Today, the Akita Inu remains a cherished breed worldwide for its strength, loyalty, and quiet dignity.

Description

afghan hound puppy - descriptionThe average weight of an adult male is 26-34kg, while females are smaller with an average weight approximately 23 kg.

While average height of the Afghan Hound is 68-74cm. Females are slightly smaller with an average height of 63cm.

The lifespan of an Afghan Hound is 12-14 years, but that always depends on the dog to dog. If you have a healthy dog and you take proper care, they tend to live much longer than average lifespan.

Litter Size again variates from dog to dog, but an average litter size is 6-7 puppies.

Afghan hound has many other names, so you might know this breed as Tazi, Tazhi Spay, Da Kochyano Spay, Sage Balochi, Ogar Afgan, Barakzai Hound, Eastern Greyhound, and Persian Greyhound.

akita inu puppy - descriptionThe Akita Inu is a large, powerful, and dignified dog breed known for its striking appearance, quiet nature, and unwavering loyalty.

Originating from Japan, it has a broad head, erect triangular ears, and a plush double coat that comes in red, white, brindle, or sesame, with characteristic urajiro (whitish markings). The Akita carries itself with pride and confidence, often aloof with strangers but deeply affectionate and protective toward its family.

Calm, intelligent, and strong-willed, the breed requires early socialization and firm, consistent training. Though not ideal for first-time owners, the Akita Inu is a loyal guardian and devoted companion for those who understand and respect its independent spirit.

Characteristics

afghan hound dog - characteristicsAfghan hounds love spending time with one owner or one family. They are not very sociable with other guests. They won’t bark or attack. They simply just don’t enjoy big crowd company. They do not enjoy spending time with children, but if trained properly they will learn to adjust. They simply don’t like quick and sudden movements, but they are not aggressive towards children. They are very independent and intelligent dogs. It is important to be gentle, patient and kind because they love positive training and awards. They are amazing breed with proper owner. Rough handling and punishments will make Afghan hound withdrawn or even depressed. Afghan hound do not tend to please its owner.

akita inu dog - characteristicsThe Akita Inu is a large, noble, and powerful breed known for its dignified presence, strong loyalty, and quiet confidence. Originally bred for hunting and guarding, Akitas are naturally protective, courageous, and independent thinkers.

They form deep bonds with their family but are often aloof with strangers. Calm and clean by nature, they rarely bark without reason and carry themselves with elegance and strength.

Their double coat is thick and weather-resistant, requiring regular grooming, and they shed heavily, especially seasonally.

While intelligent, Akitas can be stubborn, so they thrive best with experienced owners who can offer consistent training and leadership. With proper care and socialization, the Akita Inu is a devoted, majestic companion.

Health Problems

afghan hound puppies - health problemsAfghan hounds are generally very healthy breed. But, as every breed, they have tendencies to some health problems. If you want to prevent those diseases it is important to select a right and healthy puppy.

Elbow and hip dysplasia are basically common health problem to any big breed. Juvenile cataracts, Cancer and Hypothyroidism are some of the health problems that have been found in this breed, but overall, with proper care and regular vet checks, you will have a happy and healthy Afghan.

akita inu puppies - health problemsThe Akita Inu is generally a strong and resilient breed, but it is prone to several genetic and breed-specific health issues.

Common concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and hypothyroidism, all of which can affect mobility, vision, and metabolism.

The breed is also susceptible to autoimmune disorders like VKH-like syndrome and sebaceous adenitis, a skin condition causing hair loss and irritation. Additionally, Akitas may experience bloat (gastric torsion), a life-threatening emergency common in deep-chested dogs.

Regular veterinary care, proper diet, and responsible breeding practices are essential to help minimize health risks and ensure a long, healthy life.

Caring The Pet

afghan hound dogs - caringAfghan hound loves eating and 2-2.5 cups of high-quality dry food. It is better if the dog is feeding twice a day. Always depends on the activity of the dog, metabolism, age, size and built. So it is important to observe your dog and to realize what is the best quantity of food.

Feeding the Afghan puppy

Feeding the Afghan puppy should be feed at least 3-5 times per day. It is important to feed your puppy with smaller portions, but more times per day.

Grooming the Afghan puppy

Grooming this breed is not very hard, but it requires grooming and taking care of the long coat. Besides a couple of baths, every year and regular everyday grooming will make your dog hair look amazing! Afghan hound is not dog with a lot of requirements.

akita inu dogs - caringCaring for an Akita Inu involves commitment, consistency, and understanding of the breed's unique needs. They require regular grooming, especially during seasonal shedding, with brushing at least 2–3 times a week and daily during coat blow periods.

Akitas thrive on routine exercise, such as long walks or playtime in a secure area, but they aren’t overly energetic. Training and socialization should start early, using positive reinforcement and calm, firm leadership to manage their independent and protective nature.

They are best suited to homes where they are the only pet or properly introduced to others. Akitas are clean, quiet, and typically bond closely with their family, so providing mental stimulation, affection, and clear boundaries is key.

Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and proper social interaction help keep your Akita healthy, happy, and well-adjusted.

Comparison with other breeds

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  30. Akita Inu vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
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  34. Akita Inu vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Akita Inu vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Akita Inu vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Akita Inu vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Akita Inu vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Akita Inu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Akita Inu vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Akita Inu vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Akita Inu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Akita Inu vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Akita Inu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Akita Inu vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Akita Inu vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
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  48. Akita Inu vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Akita Inu vs Askal - Breed Comparison
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