Ryukyu Inu vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison

Ryukyu Inu vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed ComparisonRyukyu Inu is originated from Japan but American Pit Bull Terrier is originated from United States. Ryukyu Inu may grow 6 cm / 2 inches shorter than American Pit Bull Terrier. Both Ryukyu Inu and American Pit Bull Terrier are having almost same weight. Ryukyu Inu may live 3 years less than American Pit Bull Terrier. Both Ryukyu Inu and American Pit Bull Terrier has almost same litter size. Both Ryukyu Inu and American Pit Bull Terrier requires Low maintenance.

History

ryukyu inu - historyThe Ryukyu Inu is a medium-sized dog that comes from Okinawa, Japan.

It’s a dog that is fairly rare having been used to track boar. There isn’t much information on the dog’s history but after its numbers declined after World War II, there was an urge in the 1980s to save the breed.

The dog isn’t recognized by any major Kennel Clubs.

american pit bull terrier - historyThe history of the American Pit Bull Terrier might be a confusing one to some dog lovers and certainly to the general public that tends to lump all the “bully” breeds into a category called “pit bull”. This is because of the negative reputation this group of breeds has acquired over the past 30-50 years due to misuse and mis-breeding by the dog fighting industry. This categorization includes the American Pit Bull Terrier, The American Staffordshire Terrier, the Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

There is major confusion and disagreement on the difference between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. The AKC does not recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier as a separate breed, but its founder and the UKC, ADBA do so. In the 1930’s the American Pit Bull Terrier was a recognized breed and in response to the negativity of pit-fighting, they renamed it as the American Staffordshire Terrier.

The American Pit Bull Terrier was developed to be a little larger in size than the Staffordshire in both height and weight. This breed comes from crossing various Bull and Terrier breed to get a working dog. The Amstaff for the most part is bred to be a show dog and is not usually a “street dog” used in dog fighting rings. The direct ancestors of the APBT are the Old English Bulldogs and the Old English Terriers. These dogs are great family dogs, gentle beyond comparison unless raised to fight. They make great therapy dogs as well as police dogs. They are not by nature cruel, aggressive or attack dogs.

Both professional confirmation breeders and street fight breeds have developed new strains of the American Pit Bull Terrier. A few are worth mentioning here.

Old Family Red Nose

One of the oldest strains of the American Pit Bull Terrier they are red in color and that red is a very unique tone. They have a copper colored coat and nose with red nails, red lips and amber or red eyes. These dogs were originally from Ireland and when they came to America they had the red nose. Originally bred for gameness, it is the red color that is sought after now.

Colby Pit Bulls

These are another old breed, but they have black noses and were initially bred by John P. Colby in the late 1800s. These dogs were known to be indominable fighting dogs and were bred into almost every line of American Pit Bull Terriers that exist today. The line is still maintained by the Colby family.

Description

ryukyu inu puppy - descriptionJapanese dog breeds end with the word ‘Inu’ or ‘Ken’ . It means ‘dog’.

The medium sized Ryukyu Inu stands at between 46 to 50cm in height and weighs between 15 to 25kg. He has a black nose, dark brown eyes and erect ears. The tail is long and curls over the back.

The dog’s coat is short and you get the single- and double coated varieties. The coat can be brindle, red, white, liver or black. Some of the dogs have tiger-like stripes in the coat. People are amazed at these dogs as they have incredible climbing abilities and are even capable of climbing a tree.

Temperament:

These dogs are quiet, unobtrusive dogs. The Ryukyu Inu looks very much like a wild dog, which gives the impression of being un-trainable and ferocious but they are easily trained and make splendid pets.

Many people who have had them as pets say they would choose this dog over and over again. They are brave too and get on well with children or pets in the home. They don’t look for trouble, and their kind, stable natures make them excellent therapy dogs.

They’re intelligent dogs and will require plenty of mental and physical stimulation. They will also need to be trained and socialized as they are confident, strong-willed dogs who might not obey you if left to do what they want.

american pit bull terrier puppy - descriptionTrue to their reputation as fighters, the American Pit Bull Terrier looks like one – powerful, strong and well built. This belies their gentle disposition but too often they are judged by their looks. With a broad, brick shaped head, thick neck and deep chest, they are stocky, muscular and agile. They usually have cropped ears, but the tails are not docked. Their legs are strong and hindquarters especially muscular. These dogs are much stronger than they look. Round soulful eyes are one of the traits that people who keep these dogs as companion animals love about them. They have a scissor bite and one of the strongest jaws of all domesticated canines.

Characteristics

ryukyu inu dog - characteristicsThis dog has always been a hunting dog so he will want to have his fair share of good exercise – long walks as well as ball and rope games.

He makes a splendid pet because he has an amicable nature wanting to please. He is quiet, loving and loyal, and with such a dog in your home and heart, you just keep discovering what a wonderful pet this 4-legged friend can be.

american pit bull terrier dog - characteristicsFor those who live with the American Pit Bull Terrier there is no better dog. The APBT loves people and loves children. They think they are lap dogs, and they certainly are watch dogs. They love their people but their barks at strangers at home are not because they are protecting their people but rather they are greeting the strangers into their home. Unfortunately, they will not greet another dog in the same way. However, when their people are seriously threatened they will give their lives to defend them.

These are strong, confident dogs who want to please their people. They love children and make great family dogs but require a strong owner and a strong pack leader. The need to be under control around other dogs and because of their strength, need a strong owner. It is their aggression towards other animals that must be controlled.

Health Problems

ryukyu inu puppies - health problemsThese Japanese dogs are thought to be fairly healthy dogs, but like with most other dogs, you would need to be aware of hip dysplasia, bloat, caner and hypothyroidism.

The Ryukyu Inu, with its 10 to 12 years lifespan, will be prone to minor ailments, but with good care he is not likely to succumb to any of them.

Cataract:

Cataracts have a number of causes in dogs. This disease of the eye can occur at any age, and can develop over weeks or even years.

Cataracts can occur in just one eye or both eyes and a disease such as diabetes can bring on a cataract.

Good nutrition is important for a dog to build a strong immune system, and nutritional supplementation can certainly help to enhance lens health. Cataract surgery can be performed to remove the cataracts.

american pit bull terrier puppies - health problemsThough the American Pit Bull Terrier is healthier than most large dogs, they do have an issue with hip dysplasia. Breeders have been working to breed this out of the APBT and their work in this area has helped with the other issues with the patella, heart and thyroid. The APBT can have skin allergies and Demodex Mange. This condition can be either deadly or just a localized skin issue. Immunizations and testing is essential for this breed. When not immunized, American Pit Bull Terrier puppies have a greater incidence of parvovirus than other breeds. They also might have cataracts and congenital heart disease.

Caring The Pet

ryukyu inu dogs - caringThe coat of the Ryukya Inu requires brushing twice a week to remove loose hairs. At the same time check your dog over for new lumps and check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Bad teeth can cause lots of pain and toxins within the body. You can also choose to have the teeth seen to and cleaned by your vet.

Provide him with his own warm, dry place to sleep.

Provide him with top quality food. There are some excellent commercially manufactured foods on the market that make a point of ensuring good ingredients in them. Your Ryukya Inu needs good food to ensure longevity and health.

Try to include some home-made food for him which can be simply mixed into the dry kibble twice a week. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots is super tasty and nutritious. This food can all be chopped up, refrigerated and added warmed up and in small portions to your pets dry kibble once or twice a week. Your dog will love it.

Ensure there is always a bowl of fresh, cool water within his reach.

Have him neutered or spayed if you aren’t wanting puppies.

Keep his vaccines up to date against some deadly canine diseases.

Get him to the vet when he is injured, in pain or sick.

Feeding

american pit bull terrier dogs - caringHow you feed your American Pit Bull Terrier puppy is important to her health as an adult and long life. The adult dog should be fed one and a half to two and a half cups of high quality food twice a day. Puppies should be fed more often as they grow. DO not feed your APBT soft or canned dog food. Their food should be dry. Be careful not to feed too much as you do not want an obese American Pit Bull Terrier.

Health issues

As previously mentioned this is a healthy breed with problems with:

Cataracts

These are usually inherited, and the pup may show signs early, or they could be developed later in life. They can be removed.

Hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia as in many larger, stronger breeds this can be a major problem. Breeds should test for it and APBT breeders are attempting to breed it out of the APBT.

Congenital Heart Failure

This is a congenital issue that breeders are also breeding against and if they have it your American Bit Bull Terrier was likely born with it.

Allergies

Many APBT are allergic to grasses or out outside allergens. Shots or medication can deal with these.

Exercise and games

This is an athletic, joyful breed that loves to play, love sports and loves any activity that bonds it with its family. Some of the many sports the American Pit Bull Terrier likes to participate in include: agility, obedience competition, weight pulling, lure coursing and fly ball. He also needs backyard exercise and daily walks.

When walking your American Pit Bull Terrier, make sure she is on a leash as the breed has a tendency to be aggressive with other dogs coming into their space. The APBT loves to work. They are good therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, even service dogs.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
Origin:
Japan
United States
Height Male:
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
43 - 56 cm
16 - 23 inches
Height Female:
46 - 50 cm
18 - 20 inches
40 - 53 cm
15 - 21 inches
Weight Male:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
14 - 27 kg
30 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
8 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Okinawa Native Dog, Ryukyu Dog
Staffordshire Fighting Dog, Pit Terrier, Pitbull, Pit, Half and Half, Bull Baiter Dogs, Old Family Dog - the Irish name, Yankee Terrier - the Northern name, Rebel Terrier - the Southern name
Colors Available:
liver or black - stripes like a Tiger, Brindle, red, white
Red, Black, Fawn or Bucksjin
Coat:
Shortish - single- and double-coated varieties
Smooth, Shiny, Short, Single layer
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  2. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  3. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  4. Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  5. Schnauzer vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Fox Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  7. Bull and Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  8. Bedlington Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Irish Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  10. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  11. Kerry Blue Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  12. Lakeland Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  13. Jagdterrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  14. Blue Paul Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  15. Indian Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  16. Irish Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  17. Japanese Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  18. Brazilian Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  19. Old English Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  20. Scoland Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Skye Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  22. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  23. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  24. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  25. Welsh Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Sakhalin Husky vs Ryukyu Inu - Breed Comparison
  27. Ryukyu Inu vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  28. Ryukyu Inu vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  29. Ryukyu Inu vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  30. Ryukyu Inu vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  31. Ryukyu Inu vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  32. Ryukyu Inu vs Portuguese Water Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. Ryukyu Inu vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  34. Ryukyu Inu vs Puli - Breed Comparison
  35. Ryukyu Inu vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  36. Ryukyu Inu vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  37. Ryukyu Inu vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  38. Ryukyu Inu vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  39. Ryukyu Inu vs McNab - Breed Comparison
  40. Ryukyu Inu vs Porcelaine - Breed Comparison
  41. Ryukyu Inu vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  42. Ryukyu Inu vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  43. Ryukyu Inu vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  44. Ryukyu Inu vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  45. Ryukyu Inu vs Petit Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  46. Ryukyu Inu vs Pumi - Breed Comparison
  47. Ryukyu Inu vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  48. Ryukyu Inu vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  49. Ryukyu Inu vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  50. Ryukyu Inu vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds