Akita Inu vs German Shorthaired Pointer Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Japanese Akita or DK?

Compare the Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Japanese Akita or a DK? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Japanese Akita, American Akita, Great Japanese Dog

Deutsch Kurzhaar, GSP, Kurzhaar, DK, Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund

Weight

What is the average weight of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

110.0 pounds ( 50 kg )

62.5 pounds ( 28 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer

27.0 inches ( 68.6 cm )

24.0 inches ( 61 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inu has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

German Shorthaired Pointer has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Akita Inu nor German Shorthaired Pointer are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer dogs?

Alert
Dignified
Friendly
Responsive
Courageous
Docile
Intelligent
Vigilant
Independent
Faithful
Willing
Protective

Affectionate
Bold
Intelligent
Boisterous
Cooperative
Trainable

Shedding Level

Do Akita Inus shed more than German Shorthaired Pointers, or which breed sheds more, Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers?

Akita Inus shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

German Shorthaired Pointers are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Choose an Akita Inu if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

German Shorthaired Pointers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Origin

What is the origin of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer dog breeds?

Japan

Germany

Ancestry

What are the origins of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds?

Northern Spitz

german bird dog, spanish pointers, bloodhounds

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club

American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
Australian National Kennel Council
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds first developed?

1600s

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds?

Brindle
White
Silver
Fawn
Red
Black
Brown

Brown
Black
White
Pied

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds?

The coat of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

10-14 puppies per pregnancy

An Akita Inu can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A German Shorthaired Pointer can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Akita Inus are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

German Shorthaired Pointers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the Akita Inu breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

German Shorthaired Pointers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds?

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Hip Dysplasia
Bloat
Von Willebrand's Disease
Autoimmune Thyroiditis

Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

Elbow Dysplasia
Pemphigus
Sebaceous Adenitis

Entropion
Cherry Eye
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Cataracts
Hemivertebrae
Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis
Von Willebrand's Disease
Acral Mutation Syndrome
Lupoid Dermatitis

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Blood
Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
Physical Examination

Cardiac
Eye
Hip
Dna Test For Vwd
(Blood)
Skeletal
Skin Scraping

Energy

How do the energy levels of Akita Inus and German Shorthaired Pointers compare?

Akita Inus' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

German Shorthaired Pointers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Akita Inu vs German Shorthaired Pointer social needs comparison

Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

Akita Inu vs German Shorthaired Pointer exercise need comparison.

Akita Inus require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

German Shorthaired Pointers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inus sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

German Shorthaired Pointers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inu excessively drools, consider a different breed if not appealing.

German Shorthaired Pointer has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Tendency to Bark

Do Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers bark more/less frequently?

Akita Inus are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

German Shorthaired Pointers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer a better guard dog?

Akita Inu dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

While German Shorthaired Pointer dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Akita Inu vs German Shorthaired Pointer?

Roaming urge

Akita Inu vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer entertained?

Run, Frisbee, Chase, Sniff, Swim, Play, Walk, Fetch, Walking, Tug-of-war, Running, Training, Listen to me, Belly rubs

Car rides, Running, Playing fetch, Sniffing, Swimming, Walk, Run, Walking, Kisses, Walki, Hunt, Shake, Tracking, Play, Playdate, Play keep away, Fetch, Escaping, Hike, Swim, Nap, Camp, Backpack, Train, Travel

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers?

Medium

Akita Inus are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

German Shorthaired Pointers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Akita Inu, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For German Shorthaired Pointer, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most Akita Inus usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

90 minutes

In general most German Shorthaired Pointers usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers?

The Akita Inu has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer dogs?

Weekly

Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Akita Inus and German Shorthaired Pointers?

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer in cups?

3 cups

For an average 100-130 pound (45 - 59 kg) Akita Inu feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.8 cups

For an average 55-70 pound (25 - 32 kg) German Shorthaired Pointer feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

$2.80 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an Akita Inu is somewhere $2.80 - $3.20 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a German Shorthaired Pointer is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

$84 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an Akita Inu is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a German Shorthaired Pointer is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Akita Inus vs German Shorthaired Pointers

Akita Inus are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

German Shorthaired Pointer is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Akita Inu vs German Shorthaired Pointer?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inus make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Child Friendly

Do Akita Inus or German Shorthaired Pointers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Cat Friendly

Do Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Akita Inus are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

German Shorthaired Pointers are not cat friendly.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inus are average in their friendliness towards other dogs, and socialization can help.

German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Akita Inu or German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inus are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

German Shorthaired Pointers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Akita Inu and German Shorthaired Pointer?

Akita Inus have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

German Shorthaired Pointers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Akita Inus and German Shorthaired Pointers compare?

Akita Inus are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.