Breed Analysis: Akita - A Detailed Examination of the Ancient Japanese Dog Breed

Breed Analysis: Akita - A Detailed Examination of the Ancient Japanese Dog Breed

The origins of Akitas aren't totally clear, but we do know they stem from Japan and ancient samurai used them for hunting wild boar, bears, and deer. These pooches are highly popular in Japan and are often viewed as emblems of happiness, good health, and longevity. While they have a fierce reputation, they can be as gentle as a lamb with the right owner.

To the average dog lover, an Akita may seem aggressive, but the reality is they can be just as sweet as a marshmallow if you're their natural leader, providing exceptional training and socialization, my friend!

One fact? Akitas are "people" dogs, preferring the company of their owner and family above all. So if you're considering adopting one, make sure you're ready to dedicate some high-quality bonding time!

Gotta Exercise That Akita Body!

Here are some cool deets about an Akita's exercise needs:

Life Expectancy: 10-12 yearsAverage Weight: Male: 85lbs/39kg, Female: 64lbs/29kg (around the size of a single bed)Exercise Level: High

Akitas need more exercise than many breeds, so be prepared to give 'em a good walk (or even better, a run) for a couple of hours each day. Since they have a muscular build and high energy, they'll need space to burn it off, whether that's in a securely fenced backyard or around a park. But remember to avoid public spaces where there's heavy animal traffic, as an Akita may feel compelled to give chase.

To keep them engaged, dazzle 'em with the coolest dog toys and encourage fun games like fetch or hide-and-seek—bonus points if it involves you, as they're not big fans of being left alone for too long!

Trainin' Day!

Suitable for: Experienced, active pet owners who want a close, loyal companionNot suitable for: Families with young children and other petsTemperament: Intelligent, composed, faithful

Training an Akita can be a challenge, mainly because they're an independent and intelligent breed who can get bored quickly and like to do things their way. If you approach it positively and consistently, focusing on reinforcement and firm fairness, you will see their keen intellect at work quickly! Great socialization, particularly early on, is essential to teach them to be comfortable around strangers, other animals, and new environments.

Who Let The Kids Out?

Akitas make excellent family pets—but keeping young ones in mind is vital. Even if your Akita has been properly socialized and taught appropriate manners, it's essential to keep an eye on children when they are together, as Akitas are powerful dogs and can accidentally knock them over or become aggressive if mistreated. A better fit for homes with older children or no children at all.

What's Cookin', Good Lookin'?

Since Akitas are prone to weight gain, it's essential to feed them a balanced diet and avoid giving them too many treats. We recommend at least three to five cups of high-quality dry dog food per day, with a protein content of at least 22%. To keep them in top shape, trim their nails, brush their teeth, and check for lumps, fleas, and teeth issues as needed.

Quiet on Set!

Akitas don't bark much, but they do growl, mumble, and grunt when they feel threatened or upset. However, their seemingly never-ending stream of odd noises is often endearing rather than distressing.

Are Akitas Aggressive?

Truth be told, they can be! But for the most part, they're awesome, loyal dogs who follow their humans around, protect them, and are more than happy to perform helpful tasks like fetching objects. If you understand your Akita's boundaries and avoid crossing them (such as not staring them in the eye), you can build a strong bond with this amazing breed!

Oh, the Shedding! The Shedding!

Amount of Shedding: HighEasy to Groom: YesGeneral Health: Good

Akitas have a thick double coat that keeps them warm in winter and cool in summer, and this means all that lovely fur will be lurking in your home year-round. Shedding is manageable, though, if you vacuum and use the best dog brushes to remove excess hair from their coat once or twice a week. Be prepared to give them baths every few months if you want to keep their coat shiny and clean.

Potential Health Issues

Good news—Akitas are generally healthy dogs! However, keep an eye out for potential issues like hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, bloat, and sebaceous adenitis, an uncommon but genetic condition that can lead to alopecia. With pet insurance that covers expensive vet bills, you'll have one less thing to worry about when caring for your Akita. Just know that Akitas may have higher insurance premiums than some other dog breeds.

All in all, Akitas are fantastic companions for experienced pet owners—just make sure you're up for the challenges of training, dealing with shed fur, and bonding with a dog who is definitely a unique character!

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​10 Intereting Akita Facts

Discover even more fun Akita facts and learn about other dog breeds with tough reputations!

1. Akitas, despite their fierce reputation, can be gentle as a lamb with the right owner, making them wonderful companions.
2. To ensure bright health and longevity, Akitas need a balanced diet, regular exercises like walks or runs, and routine grooming that includes nail trimming, tooth brushing, and removing excess fur.
3. Akitas require intensive training and socialization due to their independent and intelligent nature, but with patience and firm fairness, they can be obedient and loyal pets.
4. A home with experienced, active pet owners who can dedicate high-quality bonding time is ideal for an Akita, as they prefer the company of their owner and family.
5. Akitas are active dogs, needing several hours of exercise daily, and may feel compelled to chase other animals in public spaces.
6. Due to their muscular build and high energy, Akitas make excellent family pets for older children or no children at all, but it's essential to keep an eye on children when they are together.
7. Akitas have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, so regular grooming and occasional baths are necessary to maintain their coat's shine and cleanliness, while dealing with potential health issues like hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, bloat, and sebaceous adenitis.

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