Akita Dog
The Akita Dog is a big, strong dog breed with a proud, commanding presence. In feudal Japan, they were first used to protect nobles and monarchy. Along with tracking and hunting deer, these dogs occasionally hunted wild boar and black bear.
The Akita Dog does not back down from difficulties and does not readily become frightened. They are hence courageous and devoted protectors of their family. But when taught and socialized properly, they can also be loving, obedient, and humorous dogs.
If you bring an Akita home, expect them to shed a lot, and you might have to wipe some saliva from their face. Undoubtedly, owners should be ready to clean up. They are also prone to being obstinate and are not particularly friendly with strangers. These qualities may make an excellent watchdog, but if they are to interact with other animals or people, they will need a skilled trainer. Beginners beware.
Having said that, dogs of this breed are devoted friends that will remain devoted to the appropriate person for life and offer them love and affection. So, if you and your family are ready for the effort and think of adopting an Akita, you’ll have a faithful companion for life.
Check the list of Akita Dog breed characteristics In Petlifehealth below as well!
Akita Dog Breed More Info
The Akita Dog is a huge, brash dog with a very robust look. It has a massive head with tiny, triangular eyes and a self-assured, gruff gait. Having a strong Akita around deters most troublemakers just by being present.
They are known for their steadfast devotion to their owners, and this breed may be unexpectedly kind and friendly around the family. Imagine a kind protector that follows you around the house and appears to have no other purpose in life but to protect you.
The Akita Dog is a brave breed and a natural family protector. They are stubborn and obstinate and will not yield to pressure. Unless there is a solid cause, they don’t often bark, but they are loud and make hilarious grunts, sighs, and mumbles. The Akita is said to grumble and act as though they are talking to themselves by some owners, while other owners claim that the Akita Dog provides advice on everything from how to load the dishwasher to when to put the kids to bed.
While displaying these endearing “talking” characteristics to family members, the Akita frequently seems distant and mute to guests. They are naturally shy of strangers, but if their owners are home, they will be friendly enough to a house visitor.
Though an Akita will always remain an Akita—a dignified and serious presence, not a party animal—socializing the Akita Dog (or retraining an adult dog) with as much exposure to pleasant people as possible will help lessen the edge of their wariness.
Mouthing is one of the distinctive characteristics of the Akita. The Akita enjoys carrying objects in its mouth, including your wrist. This is merely a technique for Akita to interact with the people they care about; it is not an aggressive conduct. For example, they could lead you to their leash because they want to go for a stroll or do anything else that comes to their smart mind. Many owners find the Akita’s mouthing endearing, but if you find it unpleasant, just assign your Akita a task that requires it to carry anything. They would gladly fetch the newspaper, your slippers, the mail, or even those keys you keep losing for you.
The Akita exhibits peculiar grooming behaviors by licking its body in a cat-like manner. They also stalk their prey stealthily, with their bodies low to the ground, just like tigers. This is not the kind of dog that will growl or bark as a warning before acting.
The Akita Dog is a large, powerful dog that weighs at least 100 pounds. The Akita will seek to dominate you since they are a dominant breed. It is crucial to provide proper training, and the owner should accomplish this. Because Akita Dogs are so devoted to their owners, leaving them to board with a trainer might damage their relationship.
It is essential to take the time to learn how to train the Akita breed before acquiring one. Harsh training techniques do not work well with akitas. The dog will respect you if you train it with respect.
However, you should anticipate that training will take longer than it does for other breeds. The Akita Dog is a very clever dog, but they also have a stubborn willfulness that may and often does get in the way of training. Before ever taking an Akita home with you, it is important to conduct extensive research on how to train. This breed is not for those who are shy.
Despite their outward restraint, Akita dogs are incredibly sociable animals who require a lot of time with their family. They struggle as a dog in the backyard. Loyalty and companionship go hand in hand, and that is what this breed is all about. Making them live outside without the support of a family is denying the Akita breed’s inherent character. An Akita who is lonely and bored may act violently and destructively.
The Akita Dog is not advised for first-time dog owners, for those looking for a lapdog, or for people who aren’t ready to assume responsibility. However, owners who can and are willing to put in the time and effort for correct training and study will be rewarded with a great, intelligent companion who will be steadfast in their allegiance.
Choosing an Akita entails picking which side of a debate you wish to support in addition to all other factors. The debate, known as “the split,” centers on whether the breed should be judged by American or Japanese standards.
The Japanese Akita is significantly lighter than the American Akita—up to 30 pounds less—both in height and bodyweight. Their foxlike head is unmistakably distinct from the American breed’s wide head. While the eyes of the American Akita are trapezoidal, those of the Japanese Akita are almond-shaped. Although wearing a black mask is very fashionable on American Akita Dogs, doing so in Japan, where facial markings are white, is disqualifying.
The black mask indicates that the dog has been bred in accordance with American standards and will be permitted to compete if you wish it to participate in any American Kennel Club competitions. Actually, only red, white, and a few brindles are authorized on Akita Dogs in Japan; any hue is acceptable in America.
The kinds’ variances are so great that it seems like a split would be best for the breed. There appear to be just as many people who are adamantly in favor of the split as there are others who are adamantly opposed. Selecting a standard should only be done after thorough research and is mostly a question of personal preference.
The Akita’s aptitude for hunting translates well to a variety of pursuits. They are still able to hunt today and can keep big wildlife at bay until the hunter gets there. Waterfowl can also be recovered by them. Due of their cat-like motions, they are skilled in agility and tracking. Akita owners continue to confound many who think that the breed’s character makes it impossible for them to succeed in this industry. Akita Dogs and their owners are winning ribbons despite the fact that the breed’s obstinacy may make training difficult as more individuals come to appreciate the sense of satisfaction that comes from working with this dog.
Akita Dog History
The northern Japanese province of Akita Dog is where the Akita are said to have originated, thus their name. The Akita breed has been around since the 1600s, when it was employed to hunt huge animals and defend Japanese nobility (including bears).
This brave breed was brought to America by Helen Keller, a woman of no little height. Helen Keller was highly regarded by the Japanese, who took her to Shibuyu to see the statue of Hachiko, an Akita who became famous all over the globe in the 1920s for his loyalty. The faithful dog of Hachiko greeted his master, a professor, at the railway station every day when he arrived home from work at 3 o’clock. Loyal Hachiko kept watch every day after the professor passed away until he also passed away a full ten years later.
Helen Keller was given a puppy, the first Akita brought to America, after she expressed her wish to acquire one. Keller loved Kamikaze-go and was incredibly grieved when he passed away at a young age from distemper. When she learned of this, Kenzan-go, Kamikaze’s older brother, was formally given to her by the Japanese government. Kamikaze had been “an angel in fur,” according to Keller, who also described the Akita breed as “kind, companionable, and trustworthy.”
More Akitas were brought back to the United States by American troops who had been stationed in Japan after World War II. Beginning in 1956, Thomas Boyd is credited with creating the first Akita stud to produce puppies in the United States. Many people valued the American Akita because it eventually developed into a more robust dog than the Japanese Akita.
However, other people wished to adhere to the Japanese norm. This division resulted in a protracted conflict that delayed adoption by the American Kennel Club. The Akita Club of America was finally recognized by the AKC in 1972, but the division persists today and causes Akita enthusiasts on both sides tremendous distress. The Akita’s legendary history of bravery and loyalty is something that is indisputable. When a Sumatran tiger cub became orphaned, these characteristics were once put to the test in the London Zoo. The zookeepers decided to use an Akita puppy for this crucial job because they needed extra assistance rearing the cub. They were confident the Akita wouldn’t be scared and could play with the tiger cub, teaching it valuable life skills. Furthermore, the Akita’s thick fur would shield the cub from jagged claws, and the puppy’s natural commitment to his playmate would offer the disoriented, orphaned cub the affection and safety he needed. When the tiger had successfully completed reaching adulthood, the Akita “retired” from the position.
This dog will show unwavering loyalty to the family and is extremely courageous and self-assured.
Akita Dog Size
Males weigh 85 to 130 pounds and measure 26 to 28 inches tall. Females weigh between 70 and 110 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches tall.
The Akita Dog is a big, strong dog that has an unmistakably solid look. The Akita’s look is balanced, being just slightly longer than he is tall.
The huge head is in proportion to the broad, coiled tail. The Akita Dog‘s huge head, which is its most distinctive trait, is supported by its broad chest and neck. When seen from the top, the large head and short snout make a blunt triangle. Small eyes and upright ears give the Akita a highly noble appearance. The legs are powerful and straight, and the body is muscular. Large, thick, and held high, the tail is typically coiled over the body.
The Akita has a short to medium-length, extremely thick coat. The Akita Dog is ideally adapted to chilly climes because to a thick, velvety undercoat, however the coat will thin out somewhat in the summer. The guard hair, or outer coat, is a little bit longer and coarser. While some Akita Dogs with long hair are unsuitable for showing, they are nevertheless lovely dogs in their own right. The Akita comes in white, brindle, and pinto colors. Akita Dogs without masks are white. Pinto’s body is covered in broad swaths of color on a white backdrop.
Akita Dog Personality
The Akita Dog was bred to live and work alone or in pairs, never in groups. This ancestry is reflected in modern Akita. The Akita Dog enjoys being the lone dog in the house and can be hostile toward dogs who are not part of his pack. If properly socialized, an Akita can be taught to accept other animals, but he will probably do everything it takes to maintain his dominance. If given the chance or improper care, the naturally protective Akita is prone to turning violent. The Akita has to be trained, and early socialization is crucial. Remember that this breed is resistant, thus more patience is required to teach them appropriate dog behavior. The Akita Dog is a brave and independent dog who is naturally suspicious of strangers yet fiercely devoted to its family. They possess boldness, intelligence, and alertness. They have a propensity for attacking other dogs, especially those who are their own sex. They work best in homes with only one dog.
The Akita Dog‘s powerful nature may be debilitating, so take care. They are not the right breed of dog for inexperienced or fearful owners. They require a master who can train them with love and firmness.
The Akita is lively and loving with family. They desire to take part in daily activities and appreciate having their family around. They like moving toys and household things about and are verbally aggressive. Contrary to popular opinion, they do occasionally bark when they feel the need. They may also be loud and are known to groan and grumble.
For this energetic breed, activity is crucial. They require a lot of exercise to prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. The Akita is devoted and attentive to his family and close friends, but is very protective of his home and distant from others. They make great watchdogs and only bark when there is actually a problem.
Akita Dog Temperament
The Akita Dog is a big, powerful animal. It’s a working breed, but in its earlier days in Japan, it was developed to hunt and guard homes, according to Caballero.
He continues by saying that the Akita Dog may make a wonderful family pet, particularly if taught early on and persistently. The Akita enjoys spending as much time as possible with his humans and gets along well with known youngsters. He may be distant with strangers though. Because Akita Dogs form such strong bonds with their family, they may be happiest living alone (although they might become envious if another dog receives excessive attention!). However, if socialized early, Akita Dogs may get along just well with domestic cats and dogs.
Living With
Although the Akita Dog is a big, tough breed, they have been bred for companionship in the house for years. Akita owners adore them for their devotedness and loyalty. Usually, the Akita will follow you throughout your house, as if its sole goal in life were to watch over and comfort you. However, the Akita can exhibit aggressive tendencies. The aggressiveness is typically directed towards other dogs.
The Akita is exceptionally devoted and is also highly clean-loving and quickly housebroken. They are valuable because of these two qualities to have in the house. The Akita has been said as being nearly “cat-like” because of how pristine and fragrant they are. Although they usually don’t act aggressively against people, they have highly developed protective instincts, thus caution should be exercised when guests from out of the ordinary come to your house. The Akita will be just as devoted to household children as any other member of the family. Naturally, it’s never a good idea to leave small children alone with any large dogs, especially if they are brand-new to the household.
Akita Dog Health
Akita Dogs are typically in good health, although like all dog breeds, they are susceptible to some ailments and disorders.
- Hip dysplasia: An genetic disorder known as hip dysplasia causes the thighbone to not fit tightly into the hip joint. Dogs can exhibit lameness and pain in one or both of their hind legs, although not all of them do. (X-ray screening is the most accurate method of issue diagnosis.) In any case, as the dog aged, arthritis might appear. Hip dysplasia in dogs should prevent breeding. Reputable breeders provide documentation that the parents have undergone hip dysplasia testing and are in perfect health.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: Bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a fatal illness that affects big, deep-chested dogs like Akita’s. They should avoid eating one large meal each day, eating quickly, drinking a lot of water thereafter, and engaging in strenuous activity right afterward. Bloat happens when the stomach twists after being inflated with gas or air. The regular flow of blood to the heart is hampered because the dog is unable to belch or vomit to get rid of the extra air in their stomach. The dog has a dip in blood pressure and shock. The dog might die if not given timely medical care. If your dog has a protruding belly, profuse salivation, and is retching without vomiting, consider the possibility of bloat.
- Hypothyroidism: The thyroid gland is afflicted by hypothyroidism. Epilepsy, alopecia (hair loss), obesity, lethargy, hyperpigmentation, pyoderma, and other skin diseases are considered to be caused by it. Diet and medicine are used to treat it.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of eye illnesses known as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) cause the retina to gradually deteriorate. Affected dogs initially develop night blindness; as the illness worsens, they begin to lose their daytime vision. Many afflicted dogs adjust to their diminished or lost vision well, as long as their environment doesn’t change.
- Sebaceous Adenitis (SA): In Akita’s, sebaceous adenitis (SA) is a significant issue. This genetic disorder is challenging to identify and sometimes confused with hypothyroidism, allergies, or other illnesses. When a dog develops SA, the sebaceous glands in their skin swell and finally die for unidentified causes. Sebum, a fatty fluid that assists in preventing the skin from drying out, is normally produced by these glands. Affected dogs commonly have dry, scaly skin and hair loss on top of their heads, necks, and backs. Symptoms normally start when the dog is between one and five years old. In addition to secondary skin infections, severely afflicted dogs may have thicker skin and an unpleasant odor. Although the issue is mostly aesthetic, the dog may find it uncomfortable. If your veterinarian suspects SA, she will take a skin sample and then go over several treatment options with you.
Akita Dog Care
The Akita Dog thrives and is happiest when they live indoors with their families. Although not hyper, this breed does require daily exercise. An Akita needs between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise every day, and their favorite pastimes include running (for adults over the age of two) and romping around in the backyard. Given the Akita’s propensity for dog aggression, trips to dog parks are generally not a smart idea.
A diverse schedule is recommended for this breed because of its great intellect. Akita boredom is the last thing you need. This causes behavioral issues including hostility, chewing, digging, and barking. Don’t let the Akita alone for extended periods of time and involve them in family activities. Akita safety and the protection of outsiders who might inadvertently enter their territory both benefit from a properly enclosed yard. When their family is around, they don’t normally act aggressively toward guests, but when they aren’t, everything is up for grabs. The Akita is a devoted protector who will defend against whatever they see to be a threat.
An Akita puppy has to be raised with extra care. Between the ages of four and seven months, these dogs develop a lot, which makes them prone to bone problems. They thrive on a high-quality, low-calorie diet that slows down their rapid growth. Additionally, only allow regular play on grass; avoid letting your Akita puppy run and play on hard surfaces like tarmac. Prior to the dog reaching the age of two and having all of its joints developed, refrain from forcing them to leap or jog on hard surfaces (puppy agility classes, with their one-inch jumps, are fine).
Akita Dog Exercise
Though not typically a very active breed, the Akita Dog does need some little exercise. Most members of the breed may have their daily needs met with a jog or brisk stroll around the block. Akita’s also take pleasure in playing vigorously. Despite being huge dogs—males can weigh over 100 pounds—Akita’s may thrive in a very modest environment with enough regular activity. They are sturdy dogs meant to resist the challenging outdoor circumstances of northern Japan, but they were also intended to be housedogs and watchdogs, and they behave well in a domestic setting.
Akita Dog Training
Akita’s are extremely bright, devoted, and independent, yet they can also be obstinate. Given their size and strength, it is essential that they are continuously taught from an early age. Since Akita’s are innately protective, it is crucial that they get early and thorough socialization as puppies. They need to have the ability to tolerate a variety of strangers without seeing them as a threat. They should never be left unattended in an unsafe environment because of their independence and intense prey drive. Extreme caution should be exercised while interacting with other dogs around Akita’s since they have a tendency to be aggressive, especially with dogs of the same sex.
Akita Dog Food
3 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food each day are advised.
NOTE: The amount of food your adult dog consumes is influenced by their size, age, build, metabolism, and degree of activity. Like people, each dog is unique, thus they don’t all require the same quantity of food. A very active dog will require more than a couch potato dog, which should almost go without saying. The kind of dog food you purchase also matters; the better the food, the more effectively it will nourish your dog and the less you will need to shake into the bowl.
Akita Dog Grooming And Coat Color
The American Akita Dog comes in a variety of hues and color combinations, including as brindle, black, white, chocolate, and color and white combinations. The Akita has a double coat, with a short topcoat and a thick, fluffy undercoat.
Grooming the Akita is often not too challenging. However, the Akita sheds a lot, so if you pick this breed, regular vacuuming will become part of your daily routine. Akita fur can be discovered in meals, on dishes, clothing, furniture, and carpets in the form of many dust bunnies. Two or three times a year, there are heavier sheds. Weekly brushing helps maintain the Akita’s luxurious coat healthy and reduces the amount of hair in your home.
Although their propensity for self-grooming, the Akita also require bathing about every three months. Naturally, it’s OK for your dog to roll in mud or other unpleasant substances more frequently. Once a week, examine the ears for dirt, redness, or an odor that can be an infection. The nails should be cut once a month. To avoid issues, you should also clean your ears once a week using a cotton ball moistened with a mild, pH-balanced ear cleanser.
As with all breeds, the Akita should be groomed from an early age. Making grooming a pleasant and relaxing experience will make handling your Akita puppy simpler when it matures into a huge, independent adult.