Akita Dog Breed: Information, Appearance, and Characteristics
| Height | Weight | Lifespan | Colors | Suitable for | Temperament |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24-28 inches | 70 – 130 pounds | 10- 12 years | white, black, brindle or fawn | Active, protective, loving | Active, protection, loving |
Akita Dog Breed
Regarding dog breeds, few are as iconic and storied as the Akita dog breed. These majestic dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and striking appearance.
Originally bred in Japan for hunting purposes, Akitas have since become beloved family pets all over the world. In this article, we’ll dive into the history and characteristics of this fascinating breed.
Overview of the breed’s history and origin
The Akita is a large and strikingly powerful dog with a commanding presence, distinguished by its big head, small, triangular eyes, and confident and rugged stance. The mere sight of an Akita can be enough to deter potential troublemakers.
This breed is well-known for its unwavering loyalty towards its owners and can be surprisingly affectionate towards family members.
They make excellent protectors who will follow you from room to room, appearing to have a singular mission in life – to serve and protect their owner.
Akitas are naturally courageous and protective of their family, although they can also be stubborn and headstrong, refusing to back down from a challenge.
They are not known to bark unnecessarily but are vocal in their own way, often making amusing grunts, moans, and mumbles.
Some owners report that Akitas seem to be talking to themselves, while others say that they express their opinion on various matters, from household chores to bedtime routines.
While they display these charming “talking” traits around family members, Akitas can be aloof and silent around visitors, displaying a natural wariness towards strangers. However, they can be welcoming toward house guests as long as their owners are present.
Socializing Akita puppies with friendly people and providing them with exposure to different environments can help reduce their wariness of strangers.
However, Akitas will always have a dignified and sober presence and are not naturally inclined to be party animals.
The Akita is an ancient breed with a long history in Japan. They were originally bred to hunt large game such as deer and wild boar.
In fact, their name comes from the Akita Prefecture in northern Japan where they were first developed. Over time, Akitas became popular with Japanese royalty and were even used as imperial guard dogs.
During World War II, however, the breed faced significant challenges. Due to wartime shortages, many Akitas were killed for their fur or used as food.
Additionally, cross-breeding with other breeds threatened their pure genetic line. After the war ended, a group of dedicated breeders worked tirelessly to restore the Akita to its former glory.
They focused on preserving the breed’s original traits while also improving its temperament for domestic life. Today’s Akitas are descended from this careful breeding program and are recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide.
Akita Dog Breed’s Physical Appearance
One of the most striking things about Akitas is their physical appearance. They have muscular bodies with thick fur that can come in a variety of colors, including white, black, brindle or fawn.
Akitas have a broad head with small triangular ears that stand up straight.
Their eyes are dark brown and set deeply into their face. Their tails are thick and curl up over their back, adding to their regal appearance.
The average size of male individuals of this breed is between 26 to 28 inches in height and 85 to 130 pounds in weight. Females typically stand between 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 70 to 110 pounds.
Despite their size, they move with surprising grace and are known for their agility.
Akita Appearance and Characteristics
| Breed Characteristics | |
|---|---|
| Temperament | |
| Affectionate with Family | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Good with Children | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Sociability with Dogs | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Friendliness towards Strangers | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ |
Loyalty and Protectiveness towards their Family
Akitas are known for their fierce loyalty and protectiveness towards their families. They have a strong bond with their owners and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
This trait has made them popular as family pets but can also make them wary of strangers.
When properly trained and socialized from a young age, Akitas can also be friendly towards visitors. However, they will always remain fiercely loyal to their family, making them excellent watchdogs.
Independent Nature and Potential for Aggression Towards Strangers
Akitas are independent dogs who typically don’t crave constant attention or affection like some other breeds.
They are often described as “cat-like” in this sense, preferring to spend time alone or doing their own thing rather than constantly seeking out human interaction. However, this independent nature can also make Akitas more likely to display aggression towards strangers or unfamiliar dogs.
This is especially true if they perceive a threat to themselves or their family. It’s important for Akita owners to take the time to properly socialize their dogs from a young age, exposing them to different people and situations in order to reduce the likelihood of aggressive behavior later on.
Intelligence and Trainability
Akitas are highly intelligent dogs who respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.
They have an eagerness to please that makes training relatively easy compared to some other breeds.
However, due to their independent nature, Akitas can be stubborn sometimes. It’s important for owners to establish themselves as the pack leader early on in order for training efforts to be successful.
With consistency and patience, though, Akitas can learn a wide variety of commands and tricks. They excel at obedience training, and many Akitas have even been trained for police work and search and rescue missions.
A Note on Aggression
While Akitas can be fiercely loyal and protective, it’s important to note that aggression is never an acceptable trait in a dog.
Any signs of aggression towards humans or other animals should always be addressed immediately with the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist.
It’s also worth noting that in certain situations, Akitas may be more likely to display aggressive behavior. For example, they may lash out in self-defense if they feel threatened or cornered.
As with any breed, it’s important for owners to be aware of their Akita’s personality and tendencies in order to avoid potentially dangerous situations.
With proper training and socialization, though, an Akita can make a wonderful addition to any family.
Temperament and Personality Traits
| Breed Characteristics (Higher = More Suited) | |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | |
| Apartment Living | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ |
| Good For New Owners | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Are They Sensitivite? | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Good With Being Alone | ⭐️☆☆☆☆ |
| Prefers Cold / Winter Dog | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Prefers Warm / Summer Dog | ⭐️⭐️☆☆☆ |
Akita Training and Exercise Needs
| Trainability | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ease To Train | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Smart | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Potential For Mouthiness | ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ |
| Prey Motivation & Frequency | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Loudness – Barking / Howling (higher = louder) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Physical Needs | Energy Level | Intensity | Exercise Needs | Potential for Playfulness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ | High | At Least 45 Minutes / Day | Very High |
Early Socialization to Prevent Aggression Towards Strangers
Akitas are known for their loyalty and protectiveness towards their owners, but this can also lead to aggression towards strangers. To prevent this, early socialization is key.
This means exposing your Akita puppy to different people and situations from a young age. Take them to puppy classes, bring them around new people and animals, and introduce them to new environments.
It’s important that these interactions are positive experiences for your Akita. Give them treats and praise when they greet new people or animals calmly.
If they show signs of fear or aggression, don’t force the interaction. Instead, slowly build up their confidence by gradually increasing the intensity of the interactions.
Positive Reinforcement Training Methods
Akitas are intelligent dogs who respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This means rewarding good behavior with treats or praise instead of punishing bad behavior.
Punishing an Akita can actually worsen their behavior because they may become fearful or aggressive. When training your Akita, use clear commands and be consistent in your expectations.
Reward them immediately when they follow a command correctly so that they associate the behavior with the reward.
It’s also important to be patient with your Akita – some may take longer than others to learn certain commands.
Consistency in Training to Establish Respect Between Owner and Dog
Akitas have an independent nature which means that they may not always follow commands simply because you’re their owner. They need to respect you as their leader in order for training to be successful.
Consistency is key when it comes to establishing this respect between owner and dog. Stick with a regular training routine so that your Akita knows what is expected of them at all times.
Be firm but fair in your commands and use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior. Remember that training is an ongoing process, not something that can be accomplished in a few weeks.
In addition to training, it’s important to establish other routines and rules in your Akita’s life. This includes feeding them at the same time each day, providing them with their own space in the house, and setting boundaries for behavior.
Incorporating Exercise into Training
Akitas are a large and energetic breed that require daily exercise. Incorporating exercise into their training routine can help keep them focused and engaged during training sessions. Take your Akita for daily walks or runs.
Play games like fetch or tug-of-war with them. You can also enroll your Akita in activities like agility or obedience classes as a way to challenge their minds and provide physical exercise.
Without enough exercise, Akitas may become bored and destructive which can make training more difficult. Providing enough exercise will also help keep your Akita physically healthy which is important for their overall wellbeing.
Training an Akita requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques. Early socialization is key to preventing aggression towards strangers while establishing routines helps build respect between owner and dog.
Incorporating exercise into training keeps Akitas focused and engaged while providing physical activity they need to stay healthy. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to train your Akita successfully while building a strong bond with them along the way.
Health and Care
| Health and Grooming Needs (Lower The Starts = The Less) | Rating |
|---|---|
| Shedding | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Drooling | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| Grooming Difficulty | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
| General Health (higher = better) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Weight Management (Potential for weight gain) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ |
| Size | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Akita Health And Longevity
Overall, Akitas are healthy dogs with an average lifespan of around 10-12 years. However, like any breed, they do have some health concerns that owners should be aware of.
Proper diet and exercise are crucial to maintaining your Akita’s health and longevity. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help catch any potential health issues early on.
Health Issues To Watch
These are common health issues in Akitas: hip dysplasia, bloat, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, and sebaceous adenitis.
- Hip dysplasia can cause pain and lameness, and bloat is life-threatening.
- Hypothyroidism: affects the thyroid gland, while progressive retinal atrophy leads to gradual vision loss.
- Sebaceous: adenitis is a genetic condition that affects the skin and can cause hair loss and an unpleasant odor. It’s important to diagnose and treat these conditions early.
- Bloat: or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a life-threatening condition in large, deep-chested dogs like Akitas. It’s caused by consuming one large meal per day, eating too quickly, drinking a lot of water after eating, or exercising vigorously after a meal. Bloat occurs when the stomach distends with gas or air and then twists, impeding the normal return of blood to the heart. Without immediate medical attention, the dog may go into shock and die. Look out for signs like a distended abdomen, excessive salivation, and retching without vomiting. Take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if you suspect bloat.
Grooming
Grooming an Akita is generally not too difficult, but it is important to be prepared for shedding.
As a breed that sheds frequently, Akita fur will be found on various surfaces such as furniture, clothing, and dishes, and may form dust bunnies on floors and carpets.
Heavier shedding occurs a few times a year, but weekly brushing can help reduce the amount of hair in your home and keep your Akita’s coat healthy.
Although Akitas are known for their self-grooming habits, they still require a bath every three months or so, and more often if they get into something messy.
It is also important to trim their nails monthly and check their ears weekly for dirt, redness, or bad odors that could indicate an infection.
Using a gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner, you should wipe their ears out weekly to prevent potential problems.
To make grooming a positive experience, it is recommended to start grooming your Akita at an early age and keep it as a soothing and enjoyable experience.
This will help ensure easier handling as your puppy grows into a large and willful adult.
Feeding
It is recommended to feed your Akita dog 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food per day.
However, the amount of food your dog needs will depend on several factors such as their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.
It is important to remember that each dog is unique and may require a different amount of food. For instance, an active dog may need more food than a less active one.
Additionally, the quality of the dog food you choose will also impact how much you need to feed your dog.
Opting for high-quality dog food will ensure that your dog receives the necessary nutrients and may reduce the amount needed per meal.
To determine the right diet for your dog, it is best to consult with your veterinarian.
Famous Akitas in Pop Culture
Hachiko, a Legendary Loyal Akita in Japan
When it comes to famous Akitas, one name that immediately comes to mind is Hachiko. This loyal dog gained worldwide recognition for his unwavering loyalty and devotion to his owner.
The story goes that Hachiko would greet his owner at the train station every day after work, but one day his owner unexpectedly passed away at work and never returned home. Despite this, Hachiko continued to wait at the station for his owner’s return every day for nine years until he passed away himself.
Hachiko’s story touched the hearts of many people both in Japan and around the world, leading to several movies and books being made about him. Today, a bronze statue of Hachiko stands outside Shibuya Station in Tokyo as a tribute to this remarkable dog.
Lesser-Known Facts About Akitas
The breed’s role as a symbol of good health in Japan
While many people know that Akitas are a breed that originated in Japan, not everyone is aware of the unique cultural significance that these dogs hold. In Japan, Akitas are considered a symbol of good health, and they are often given as gifts to wish someone well after an illness or to bring good luck to a household.
This belief is rooted in the Akita’s reputation for being tough and resilient, traits highly valued in Japanese culture. Akitas were also used during World War II as sentries and guard dogs.
Their loyalty and protective nature made them ideal for this role, and they were often used to protect soldiers’ belongings while they were away from their barracks. However, during the war years, many Akitas were killed for their fur, which was used by the military for uniforms.
In modern times, there is widespread appreciation for the Akita’s role as an ambassador of Japanese culture. Many people who own Akitas take pride in their dog’s heritage and enjoy learning more about Japanese traditions.
The unique “bear-like” gait that some Akitas display while walking
One of the Akita breed’s most distinctive features is their unique walking gait.
Some Akitas walk with what is called a “bear-like” gait – this means that they walk with their front legs turned slightly inward and their hindquarters swaying back and forth as they move forward.
This gait can make them look like a bear lumbering along! The bear-like gait is actually an important part of the Akita’s physical makeup – it allows them to move over rough terrain with ease.
The inwardly turned front legs help give them better balance, while the swaying hindquarters help absorb shock as they walk or run.
It’s also worth noting that not all Akitas have this gait – some have a more traditional, upright posture when walking.
Interestingly, the bear-like gait is also seen in other breeds of dog, including the Chow Chow and the Shiba Inu (another Japanese breed).
However, Akitas are perhaps the most well-known breed for this particular way of walking.
These lesser-known facts about Akitas can give you a greater appreciation for this amazing breed. From their cultural significance in Japan to their unique physical characteristics, there’s so much to learn about these dogs!
Why Akitas Make Great Pets
Loyal Companions For Life
Akitas are known for their undying loyalty to their families. They will go to great lengths to protect and defend those who they consider part of their pack.
This makes them an excellent choice as a family dog, especially in homes with children.
Their natural instincts make them best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide the proper training and socialization.
One of the most endearing qualities of the Akita is their unwavering loyalty.
They bond deeply with their owners and will always be by their side, no matter what life throws at them. This makes them great companions for those who are looking for a steadfast and devoted friend.
Intelligent And Trainable
Despite being independent thinkers, Akitas are incredibly intelligent and trainable dogs. With positive reinforcement training methods, they can learn a wide range of commands and tricks. However, it’s important to establish respect between owner and dog early on in training to ensure success.
Akitas thrive on challenges, which makes them perfect for advanced obedience work or agility competitions.
They have a strong work ethic and enjoy learning new things.
A Unique Breed With Fascinating History
The Akita breed has an interesting history that dates back over 400 years in Japan. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they were also used as guard dogs and even served as symbols of good health in Japanese culture.
Their unique physical appearance sets them apart from other dog breeds – with thick double coats, piercing eyes, and muscular builds that give them an almost regal look.
Akitas: The Perfect Pet
Akitas make great pets for those who are looking for a loyal, intelligent, and unique companion. They require experienced ownership but offer an incredible bond that is unmatched by other breeds. Whether you’re looking for a devoted family pet or an agility champion, the Akita breed has something to offer everyone who loves dogs.
