Akita Inu vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison

Akita Inu vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed ComparisonAustrian Pinscher is originated from Austria but Akita Inu is originated from Japan. Austrian Pinscher may grow 21 cm / 8 inches shorter than Akita Inu. Austrian Pinscher may weigh 21 kg / 46 pounds lesser than Akita Inu. Both Austrian Pinscher and Akita Inu has almost same life span. Austrian Pinscher may have less litter size than Akita Inu. Austrian Pinscher requires High Maintenance. But Akita Inu requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Working dog
Origin:
Austria
Japan
Height Male:
42 - 50 cm
16 - 20 inches
66 - 71 cm
25 - 28 inches
Height Female:
40 - 48 cm
15 - 19 inches
61 - 66 cm
24 - 26 inches
Weight Male:
12 - 18 kg
26 - 40 pounds
32 - 39 kg
70 - 86 pounds
Weight Female:
10 - 18 kg
22 - 40 pounds
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 14 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 6
7 - 10
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Austrian Shorthaired Pinscher, Austrian farm dog
Japanese Akita, American Akita, Great Japanese Dog , Akita
Colors Available:
The combination of the black and golden yellow, brown and golden yellow. They can have white mark that stretches from the top of the head and across the belly.
White, Red Fawn, Sesame, Brindle
Coat:
short or medium long roughish and thick coat, with softer undercoat
Double coat
Shedding:
Constant
Constant
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Courageous, Energetic, Independent, Loyal, Protective, Quiet
Grooming:
High Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

History

austrian pinscherThe Australian pinscher exists from the early nineteenth century in Australia. They were originally breed and raised to be great family pet and the guard of the property. They don’t have the gene for a hunting and that’s why they were kept close to the family. Since they were thought to live in areas where they can roam and run free, they have a high daily need for the activity.

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

austrian pinscher puppy - descriptionThe Australian pinscher, medium sized dog breed, with strong and solid body muscularity, is a happy dog with generally very positive personality. They don’t weight much, and they have usually athletic bodies because they are very active dog kind. Their head is built as a roundish triangle with wrinkled wide forehead and strong cheekbones. They have strong scissor bite and usually darker lips. They have brown or golden brown lively eyes, medium to small ears that fit perfectly to the head size. Their tails are most of the time happy and up in the air, usually fluffy because of the longer hairs on the tails.

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

Children friendliness

austrian pinscher dog - characteristicsIf you decide to have an Austrian pinscher as a pet in a family with small children, you will make a great choice. Their playful nature and energetic behaviour have been accepted by the children very well. They have an affectionate attitude towards their family, and they will be the great watchdog for your children.

Special talents

Guarding a farm, large yard, animals on the farm or in a yard. Guarding and playing with children, long runs or long bike rides. They will follow you anywhere.

Adaptability

Since they are great with the family and children as well, they can’t be rated with a five-star grade for stranger friendliness and other dog’s friendliness. Sure, they can be trained to be very socialized if you have the time and the patience, but if you don’t you shouldn’t be surprised if they are generally not stranger friendly. It’s their nature. They are devoted only to the family and they usually have a hard time when their family leaves them. This breed is not advisable to be kept indoors or with the seniors that don’t move much.

Learning ability

The Austrian pincher's ability to learn fast and be trained quickly is not super good. They do well – they will listen to their owners always but they are not so great when it comes to learning trick for fun. They will be more than happy to run to catch the ball, but they won’t give it back because they can play alone. They can be learnt to do the basic things, but their lovable and playful nature will overall and they will end up asking for an ear scratch or a belly rub.

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

austrian pinscher puppies - health problemsThey usually have no health issues like skin irritations, problems with eyes or ears, but they need to be groomed regularly because they shed a lot. They don’t need the regular baths, but when you do bathe them, take a good care of washing and rinsing their thick undercoat. Keep their ears clean and their claws tidy, and you will be happy together. There is a normal percentage of the joint injuries and heart malfunctions due to the increased activity. But, if you take a good care of your Austrian Pinscher, you wouldn’t have to worry about this at all.

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

How to feed the Austrian pinscher

austrian pinscher dogs - caringJust like any other active dog, the Austrian Pinscher loves to eat. But they usually know their limit and they are almost never obese. While they are pups, it is best for them to have meals in the morning, afternoon and in the evening. Meals should be rich in nutrients and in small portions. When they grow up, they will need two meals during the day. Take a good care while feeding them – read about the portion needed for their weight and don’t give him extra portions or human junk food. They generally don’t like raw meat, but you can chance on of the daily portions with some meat cooked in the water without any spices.

Good Health tips

Organize your day to have an hour or two for this lovely pet. Austrian pinscher likes to be cuddled, petted and being played with. Be affectionate towards this dog breed because they will be happier and more protective towards you. They like to show love but they also have a need to be appreciated and loved. Keep them off the leach as much as possible and don’t leave them alone for a long period.

Games and Exercises

This lively and energetic dog breed will do well while they have enough place to run. If you have a small yard, take them for a run with you or drive a bike and let them follow. They like to bark, and they will do that if they want your attention.

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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  39. Akita Inu vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
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  42. Akita Inu vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
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