If you are thinking about adding a new dog to your family, surely you have considered various breeds, and Akita and Great Pyrenees might be among them. If you are confused between these two breeds, you are not alone.
These large dogs are known for their loyalty, strength, and protective nature. But when considering their personalities, they are quite different. Akita is bold, alert, and may need a firm hand. On the other hand, the Pyrenees are quite calm, gentle, and great with kids.
Choosing between these amazing breeds is not an easy task. You always want a dog that fits your lifestyle, loves your family, and makes you feel safe and happy.
Luckily, we have all the information that will help you choose your next family member. This blog will help to compare various attributes of both dog breeds. So keep reading to make an informed decision.
Akita vs. Great Pyrenees
Akita is a large-sized Japanese dog known for its loyalty, courage, and independence. This dog has a national monument in Japan and is linked with good health, happiness, and long life.
Akitas are calm and meticulous dogs. Akitas are wary of strangers and generally intolerant of other animals, yet they will willingly show their goofy, cuddly side with family and friends.
The Great Pyrenees is a huge, thick-coated, and extremely strong working dog that was developed to fight sheep-stealing wolves and other predators on snowy mountaintops. Today, Pyrs are gentle companions and diligent protectors of the house and family.
They usually get along quite well with youngsters. Moreover, these versatile dogs serve as therapy dogs and search and rescue dogs. However, owners must be aware of their tendency for nighttime barking and the importance of socialization.
Size and Weight: Akita vs. Great Pyrenees
Ankita is a working breed that originated from the mountains of northern Japan. Originally bred as a hunting and fighting dog breed, it is currently used as a police and guard dog.
According to Pawlicy Advisor, Akita are large, high-energy dogs. The average weight of a male dog is 110 pounds, and a female weighs 80 pounds. Moreover, the average male height is 26 to 28 inches, while female height is 24 to 26 inches.
Great Pyrenees weigh over 100 pounds and stand 27 to 32 inches tall. But females are smaller as they weigh over 85 pounds with a height between 25 to 29 inches.
Personality and Temperament Differences
Personality-wise wise Akita is a sweet and affectionate dog, making them a perfect family dog. Moreover, they are famous for loyalty and a high level of courage. They tend to make a strong bond with family members. Further, they don’t bark unnecessarily till the time there is any reason. But keep in mind, they are vocal.
Great Pyrenees have a gentle nature and with protective instinct. Therefore, they are used as therapy and search and rescue dogs. So they are quite famous among kids. Great Pyrenees dogs are also independent, so you can leave them alone.
Trainability and Intelligence Comparison
Akita Life states there is no doubt that Akita is a highly intelligent breed, but the level of intelligence varies from dog to dog. The best indication of their intelligence is that they are easy to train. However, it is crucial to understand their temperament for training them.
Great Pyrenees ranks at 64 position in the Canine Dog Intelligence Test. Although they are in the middle of the list, but don’t depict the true story. They are extremely smart dogs and quite independent, so they are difficult to train. The pet owner must use positive reinforcement and stay consistent.
Energy Levels and Exercise Needs
According to PDSA, the Akita is not a highly active dog. However, they do need moderate exercise to stay active. A jog or brisk walk once a day is enough for them. But they do love playing around. But keep an eye on them in hot weather as they have a thick coat, therefore prone to overheating issues.
On the other hand, pyrs are also not highly active dogs. The breed was developed to protect the livestock, so while working, they patrol the territory. They conserve their energy for crucial times. A moderate level of workout with their owner is enough for them.
Playfulness and Activity Tendencies
Akita is of a medium activity level, but they are still playful. Owners can take them on long walks or indulge them in vigorous play. Moreover, they enjoy tugging and other running games. They are also good with dog sports like agility, obedience, and nose work.
Pyr is not a playful animal. Sometimes they like outdoor activities and exploration; however, specific playfulness varies. They also like to play catch a ball.
Adaptability and Independence
Akita is an adaptable dog breed that can live in various situations. They have no issue with living in apartments, houses, both in rural and urban areas. These breeds are good at handling change. They can tolerate cold weather, but they cannot tolerate heat.
It is not suggested to maintain the Great Pyrenees breed at home. It thrives in the garden, but if you must keep it indoors, it should be fully exercised with lengthy daily walks. You may keep the Great Pyrenees indoors by establishing regular routines. Moreover, due to their heavy coat, they can’t tolerate heat.
Owners can walk with dogs on a leash; however, without a leash, they may wander independently. They thrive in vast, well-fenced yards where they can wander and patrol.
Health, Common Issues, and Lifespan
Akita can suffer from various health issues. They can have joint issues, particularly related to joints. According to PetMD, hip dysplasia, which affects hip joints, is also a major issue found in these animals. Hypothyroidism is also a common health issue in the Akita dog breed. Moreover, Microphthalima, which is an eye problem noticed in them.
Great Pyrenees is also prone to elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. This causes rubbing and grinding of the bones. Patellar Luxation is an inherited condition in Akita in which their kneecap dislocates. Various eye orders include
Entropion
Cataracts
Canine multifocal retinopathy (CMR)
Bite Force and Protective Instincts
Akita bite force is very remarkable. Their bite force ranges between 300 to 400 PSI (pounds per square inch). Akita is among other dog breeds that have the strongest bite force. Therefore, their bite can be very painful and harmful.
Further, Akita is very protective in nature. They protect their territory at all costs. Therefore, they are a perfect choice as guard dogs.
Great Pyrenees have a powerful build, and they possess a protective instinct. Their bite force is between 280 to 340 PSI. This bite force ranges in other large dogs.
Moreover, these loyal dogs are protective of humans and children. They immediately respond to the situation if they feel their property or owner is under attack.
Conclusion
Akita is bold, protective, and needs firm training, while the Great Pyrenees is calm, gentle, and great with kids. Both are loyal, large dogs that require moderate exercise and don’t tolerate heat well. Akita is more alert and suited for experienced owners, whereas Pyrenees is independent and family-friendly. Choose the breed that best fits your lifestyle and home environment.
