When it comes to powerful, protective dog breeds, the Akita and Boerboel both stand tall with their own unique charm. The Akita, a muscular, double-coated beauty from ancient Japan, is known for its dignity, courage, and fierce loyalty. In Japan, these dogs are cherished not just as family protectors but as symbols of good health and happiness — basically living legends with a heart of gold.
On the other side of the world, the Boerboel is a bold, confident guardian hailing from South Africa. These big, sleek-coated dogs earned their stripes protecting homesteads from wild predators, making them fearless and incredibly smart.
Both breeds bring strength and devotion to the table, but their backgrounds and personalities offer something a bit different. So, if you’re trying to decide between Akita and Boerboel, let’s dive into what makes each of these incredible dogs truly special.
Akita vs. Boerboel
The Akita is a strong and muscular breed that originated in the mountainous regions of northern Japan. Recognized as a “natural monument” by the Japanese government in 1931, the Akita was originally used for hunting and fighting and now excels in police and guard work. This breed is easily identified by its broad head, erect, pointed ears, and a large curled tail.
Akitas come in various colors, often with a distinct dark mask around their muzzle, except for all-white individuals. Their dignified presence and loyal nature made them popular worldwide after Helen Keller brought the first Akita to the United States in 1937, and they were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1973.
On the other hand, the Boerboel, also known as the South African Mastiff, is a gigantic, muscular guardian bred to protect farms from dangerous predators like hyenas and lions. With a broad, blocky head, powerful jaws, and sleek coat, Boerboels belong to the ancient molosser family—the ancestors of today’s mastiffs.
Despite their intimidating size, Boerboels are agile and intelligent dogs known for their confident, dominant, yet devoted nature. Having guarded South African homesteads for centuries, they are no-nonsense protectors who combine strength with a sharp mind and eagerness to learn, making them exceptional family guardians.
Size and Weight Differences
Akitas have a distinctive fox-like face with pointed, triangular ears, a thick, plush coat, and a fluffy tail that curls over their back. Akitas typically weigh between 70 to 130 pounds and stand 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder.
Additionally, the American Akita is slightly larger than the Japanese Akita. Their size makes them much bigger than smaller spitz-type breeds like the Shiba Inu, giving them a commanding presence.
In comparison, Boerboels are noticeably larger and more massive. Male Boerboels average height is between 24 to 27 inches. Females are slightly smaller at 22 to 25 inches. These powerful dogs can weigh anywhere from 150 to 200 pounds, making them significantly heavier than Akitas. Their substantial size and muscular build contribute to their reputation as formidable family protectors.
Temperament and Personality Traits
Akitas are courageous, confident, independent, yet aloof dogs that thrive best with experienced pet parents. They form strong bonds with their family but can be reserved or uneasy around strangers. Due to their hunting background, Akitas often have a high prey drive and may see smaller pets like cats or small dogs as something to chase.
They often do best as the only pets and may not tolerate young children well without close supervision and early training. Consistent handling, patience, and proper attention are key to managing their aggression.
Boerboels, on the other hand, are generally calm and gentle at home, making them suitable for families with children who understand how to interact with large dog breeds. However, due to their enormous size, they might accidentally harm smaller children.
Boerboels usually get along well with other pets raised alongside them. Despite their docile nature, Boerboels are agile and require regular physical and mental exercise, such as long daily walks or playtime in a secure yard, to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors like chewing.
Trainability and Intelligence
Akitas are highly intelligent and fiercely loyal, but also possess a strong, independent, and headstrong streak. Because they are large and powerful dogs, consistent training from puppyhood is essential. Their natural guarding instincts mean early and extensive socialization is crucial to help them accept strangers without seeing them as threats.
Due to their strong prey drive and independence, Akitas should never be let off-leash in unsecured areas, and caution is needed around other dogs, especially those of the same sex, as they can be aggressive.
Boerboels are protective, territorial, and not recommended for novice dog owners. Calm and intelligent, they thrive as an integral part of their family and require early socialization and structured, ongoing obedience training starting young.
While Boerboel puppies may seem easygoing and flexible at first, consistent and firm training is necessary before their natural guarding instincts take full hold. Without proper guidance, their calm puppy demeanor can quickly give way to a more dominant personality.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
The Akita is a moderately active breed that needs daily exercise, such as a brisk walk or jog. Despite their large size, they adapt well to smaller homes if given enough physical and mental stimulation. They enjoy energetic play but are also content with a calm routine. Bred for harsh climates, Akitas are versatile and thrive as both guardians and indoor companions.
Boerboels are athletic dogs with higher exercise needs. They require daily long walks or play in a secure yard, along with mental engagement. They thrive on owner interaction and enjoy dog sports like agility and protection work. Due to their protective instincts, they should not be off-leash or taken to dog parks.
Playfulness and Activity Preferences
Akitas, while moderately active, thrive on at least an hour of daily exercise that includes vigorous play, long jogs, and mental challenges like agility or scent work. They especially enjoy tugging and running games and can excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience, nose work, and tracking.
Akitas are natural jumpers, so a well-fenced yard is essential. They prefer cooler climates and snow, as they are prone to overheating in hot weather.
Boerboels are highly social and crave constant interaction with their owners and close family members. As a working breed, they have high energy levels and require about an hour of exercise daily. They love long walks, playing fetch, swimming, and other active games that involve their humans.
Boerboels aren’t independent exercisers; they want to be part of your adventures, from hiking trips to playtime. Their competitive spirit shines in dog sports like agility, obedience, and weight pulling, making them great companions for active, engaged owners.
Dietary Needs and Weight Management
Akitas do best on large-breed dog food suited to their life stage—puppy, adult, or senior—to support balanced growth and health. Feeding two to three smaller meals daily helps prevent bloat, especially when paired with slow feeders and avoiding raised bowls or exercise near mealtimes. Maintaining a healthy weight is key due to the risk of joint issues, so regular vet guidance on diet and portions is important.
Boerboels need a large-breed diet tailored to their age and health, with multiple small meals daily to reduce bloat risk. These big dogs may eat up to 10 cups of food per day, so planning for their appetite is essential to prevent obesity. Avoid raised bowls and strenuous activity around meals. Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s can help support joint health when needed, states PetMD.
Health Conditions and Lifespan
Akitas, like many purebreds, can inherit health issues such as hip dysplasia, causing arthritis and mobility problems. They are also prone to gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), a life-threatening twisted stomach condition, especially if they eat or drink too quickly.
Other concerns include hypothyroidism, sebaceous adenitis (a skin disorder), progressive retinal atrophy (leading to blindness), Von Willebrand disease (affecting blood clotting), and autoimmune disorders. Early detection and veterinary care are key to managing these conditions.
Boerboels have an average lifespan of 9 to 11 years and face health risks common to large breeds. These include elbow and hip dysplasia, causing joint pain, eye problems like ectropion and entropion that may need surgery, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition.
They also risk gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), requiring urgent treatment. Responsible breeding and regular vet visits are essential for maintaining their health and longevity.
Allergies and Grooming Requirements
As noted by AKC, Akitas are known for being relatively clean dogs with minimal “doggy odor,” which makes them a good option for families concerned about allergens. Their thick, double coat requires regular maintenance—brushing at least once a week helps keep their luxurious fur healthy and reduces shedding. Twice a year, Akitas undergo a heavy shedding phase known as “blowing coat,” during which their dense undercoat comes out in large clumps.
During these periods, more frequent brushing is essential to manage loose hair and keep your home cleaner. Regular nail trimming and routine dental care, such as brushing their teeth, are also important parts of their grooming routine to prevent discomfort and maintain overall health.
WebMD states that Boerboels have a short, dense coat that sheds moderately and can trigger mild allergies in sensitive individuals. Weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush, rubber grooming mitt, or hound glove helps remove loose hair and promotes healthy skin by distributing natural oils.
Baths are only needed occasionally unless the dog gets particularly dirty. Like Akitas, Boerboels require regular nail trimming to avoid pain or walking difficulties caused by overgrown nails. Proper grooming and hygiene practices are key to keeping Boerboels comfortable, healthy, and looking their best while also helping to minimize allergens in the home.
Conclusion
In the battle of Akita vs. Boerboel, choosing the right dog depends on your lifestyle, experience, and what you’re truly looking for in a companion. Both breeds have a long history of loyalty and strength. Akitas were originally bred to hunt bears in Japan.
Boerboels guarded homesteads in South Africa with unmatched confidence and power. They’re undeniably tough, intelligent, and protective, but not ideal for first-time dog owners due to their strong will and need for consistency in training.
If you’re still divided on your decision, do your research—compare these breeds with other breeds like the Bullmastiff to better understand your options. Whether you speak with breeders, trainers, or veterinarians, your course of action should be guided by your ability to meet their needs and keep them a healthy breed.
Because what really matters is not which breed wins but what happens when the right dog meets the right person. That’s when true companionship begins.
