Akbash and Great Pyrenees are two very large and majestic purebred dogs. Although both breeds come from Mediterranean regions, there are some key differences between them that should be considered before committing to bringing one of these dogs into your home. Both breeds are loyal, intelligent and generally good with children, but there are some key considerations that should be taken into account when deciding which is the best fit for your home. Let’s explore the unique characteristics of these two breeds and look at the differences between an Akbash and a Great Pyrenees.
Size and Stature
Akbashes are large and majestic dogs that average slightly smaller than Great Pyrenees. The heights of males range from 28 to 32 inches and weigh in at 75 to 130 pounds, while females range from 25 to 30 inches and weigh between 70 to 110 pounds. Meanwhile, the Great Pyrenees are among the world’s largest breeds. This majestic breed stands somewhat taller than the Akbash at about 28 to 32 inches for females and 30 to 32 inches for males, with weights ranging from 100 to 130 pounds for females and 120 to 160 pounds for males.
If you are looking for a big, noticeable dog, the Great Pyrenees is clearly the best choice. But if you are looking for a slightly smaller dog that is still impressive, the Akbash is a great option.
Appearance
Both breeds are powerfully built and their coats are white, long and thick, which provides them with ample protection from the elements. The Great Pyrenees stands out for its plush, flowing coat and feathery eyebrows, which give them a very regal appearance. Meanwhile, the Akbash has a longer, angular face and its coat is slightly less abundant than the Great Pyrenees’. The Akbash has a graceful stance and its head is held with a proud, dignified look.
The Great Pyrenees is by far the more decorative breed thanks to its thicker coat and impressive stature, making it a better breed for those who want a regal-looking pet. The Akbash has a more modest appearance, but is still beautiful in its own right.
Personality and Temperament
Both breeds are loyal, intelligent and devoted to their guardians. They also tend to be good with children, though their size and stature can be intimidating for some. The Great Pyrenees is the more independent of the two breeds and is not as eager to please as the Akbash. This means they are more independent and aloof, but they are still protective guardians who will guard and watch over their family.
The Akbash, on the other hand, is very devoted to its guardian and is eager to please and be praised. They are also known to be more vocal than the Great Pyrenees and have a tendency to bark more frequently, which can be a downside for those looking for a quiet dog. This can be easily managed with proper training and socialization.
Energy Level
Akbashes are high-energy dogs and require an extensive amount of exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. They should be taken on multiple daily walks and be provided with ample playtime to expend their energy. The Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, is a low-energy breed and requires a moderate amount of exercise. They enjoy long strolls, but they can also be content with a few short walks a day.
If you are looking for a high-energy, athletic breed, the Akbash is the clear choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a calmer breed that is more content to relax, the Great Pyrenees is a good choice.
Health
Both breeds are generally healthy and can live an average of 10 to 12 years. However, both are prone to certain conditions including hip dysplasia and other joint problems. Great Pyrenees tend to suffer from more health issues than Akbash, and these include bloat, entropion and von Willebrand’s disease. Akbash, on the other hand, are comparatively healthier and suffer from fewer health issues.
Overall, the Akbash is the healthier of the two breeds and may also be a better choice for those who don’t have the budget or resources to manage the health issues that can arise in Great Pyrenees.
Grooming
Since both breeds have a long, thick coat that requires regular brushing and grooming, they are not a good choice for those who don’t want to deal with the maintenance of a high-maintenance coat. However, the Great Pyrenees’ coat is thicker and more fluffy than the Akbash’s, requiring more regular brushing and grooming to maintain. The Akbash’s coat does require regular brushing, but it does not need to be done as much as that of the Great Pyrenees.
For those looking for a breed that does not need to be groomed as often, the Akbash is a better choice. However, if you want a dog with a more ornate look, the Great Pyrenees is the better option.
Training
Akbashes are intelligent and eager to please, making them easier to train than the Great Pyrenees which can be more independent and strong-willed. Both breeds will benefit from early socialization and positive reinforcement-based training methods, but the Akbash will be easier to train and is more likely to learn basic obedience commands quickly.
For those looking for an obedient, trainable dog, the Akbash is the better choice. The Great Pyrenees, on the other hand, may be more of a challenge and require more repetition, reinforcement and patience in order to be well-trained.
Coat Color
One of the major differences between Akbash and Great Pyrenees is their coat color. Akbash have a white coat, while Great Pyrenees can come in a variety of colors such as gray, brindle and red. The Great Pyrenees also tend to have unique features such as painted faces and feathered tails, which can give them a unique look.
Those looking for a dog with a more unique look may prefer the Great Pyrenees. The Akbash is only available in white, so they make a better choice for those who want a standard-looking white dog.
Price
The cost of an Akbash and Great Pyrenees can vary greatly depending on the region. Generally, Akbash will cost you less than a Great Pyrenees because they are slightly less rare and not as commonly sought after. Expect to pay upwards of $1,000 for a quality Akbash puppy, while a quality Great Pyrenees puppy can cost upwards of $3,000.
For those on a budget, the Akbash is the better choice. However, those who don’t mind spending more for a unique and majestic breed can opt for the Great Pyrenees.
Summary
Akbash and Great Pyrenees are both large, majestic and loyal breeds. Both breeds are intelligent and good with children, but there are some key differences that should be taken into account before committing to one of these dogs. Akbash stand slightly smaller than Great Pyrenees and have a slightly less ornate appearance. They are also lower energy, have fewer health issues and require less grooming than the Great Pyrenees. Akbash are also easier to train and less expensive than the Great Pyrenees. Ultimately, both breeds make loyal companions, but be sure to consider the differences before deciding which is the best fit for your home.
