Akita

The Akita is a majestic and dignified canine, admired for its intelligence and independent spirit, alongside a profound loyalty. Initially bred in Japan for hunting and combat, Akitas have transitioned into cherished companions and superb family protectors, celebrated for their bravery, dedication, and serene nature. This breed commands respect and comprehension, offering a fulfilling experience for seasoned owners who value their distinct traits and heritage.

The breed manifests in two closely related varieties: the more svelte and slightly smaller Japanese Akita Inu and the heftier, sturdier American Akita. Both exhibit the noble Spitz-type physique and a dense double coat. Akitas are renowned for their quiet dignity, potent protective instincts, and a reserved demeanor, portraying neither timidity nor aggression but rather composed and astute guardians with affectionate ties to their families.

Ideal For

Experienced dog enthusiasts who employ a firm training approach, providing consistent leadership and early socialization. Families with ample living space and secure backyards who relish active outdoor lifestyles will meet the Akita's exercise requirements. Individuals desiring a devoted, protective companion with a calm and dignified aura will find this breed exceptionally rewarding.

Important Considerations

Akitas necessitate substantial daily exercise to fulfill their physical and mental needs. Their independent temperaments require knowledgeable management, and early socialization is crucial to avert behavioral issues. With their thick double coat, seasonal shedding requires regular grooming, especially during spring and fall. Health screening for breed-specific ailments like hip dysplasia and thyroid problems is vital when choosing a puppy or adult dog.

The Akita's lineage stretches back over 300 years to the mountainous Akita Prefecture in northern Japan, where they were initially bred as fighting dogs and later esteemed as hunting companions. Historically, these dogs played numerous roles, including herding fish, hunting wild boar, deer, and even black bears, highly valued by Japanese nobility. The Akita Inu Hozankai Society, established in 1927, began stud book recordings to safeguard the breed's purity, emphasizing its cultural importance in Japan.

Initial Development

The breed evolved from various local dogs in Japan with erect ears and tightly curled tails. By 1150 AD, similar dogs known as Matagiinu were favored by royalty for their hunting skills and given distinctive collars to denote ownership ranks. Over centuries, Akitas faced threats during periods when their fur and meat were sought after, risking near extinction post-WWII. Preservation efforts led to two primary bloodlines emerging post-war, subsequently influencing the differentiation between the smaller Japanese Akita and the larger American Akita.

Contemporary Recognition

The Akita was declared a national treasure of Japan in 1931 and officially recognized for its pure lineage. The breed's introduction to the West was partly due to Helen Keller, who received an Akita pup in 1937, aiding in popularizing the breed internationally. Today, the Akita enjoys global recognition with dedicated breed clubs and is among the admired large breeds in the US, celebrated for both its working heritage and affectionate family role.

Size and Structure

The Akita is a substantial and robust dog, with a solid, muscular build indicative of its history as a hunting and guarding breed. Males typically stand between 22-24 at the shoulder, and females 20-22, weighing between 65-75 and 55-65 respectively. This medium-large dog features a well-developed body, broad chest, and a strong neck with a pronounced crest, with the body slightly longer than tall in proportion.

Fur and Colors

Akitas possess a dense double coat consisting of a coarse, straight outer layer and a softer undercoat that offers excellent protection against harsh weather. The coat is longer around the withers and rump, about 2, without feathering or ruffs. Accepted colors include black, brindle, red, fawn, white, and various combinations with masks or overlays, with well-defined markings allowed including pinto patterns.

Notable Features

The head is large and broad with a strong muzzle and pronounced cheeks, a black nose (some pigmentation accepted in lighter coats), and small, almond-shaped brown eyes with dark rims. Ears are small, triangular with rounded tips, set thickly and carried forward. The powerful, muscular limbs end in tight, well-knuckled feet with hard pads. Their full, large tails curl over the back in either a single or double curl without feathering. The gait is vigorous and fluid, with a level back and a single-track movement.

Gender Variations

Males are generally larger and more muscular, while females are slightly more slender but equally dignified. Temperamentally, males may exhibit stronger dominance traits, necessitating firmer training, whereas females tend to be slightly more reserved but equally protective. Both display the breed’s hallmark allegiance and reserved nature.

Core Temperament

Akitas are highly intelligent, independent thinkers with a strong sense of self and place in the household. Their inherent dignity complements a calm yet courageous temperament, making them both affectionate and protective. They thrive with clear, consistent leadership and socialization from a young age to prevent dominance and ensure well-rounded behavior. While naturally reserved and quiet, Akitas are attentive and loyal family guardians.

Social Dynamics

Akitas can be cautious of strangers and should always be properly introduced to prevent possessiveness or suspicion. They tend to form strong bonds with their families, especially children they grow up with, but may exhibit aggression towards unfamiliar dogs due to dog-aggression tendencies. Supervision and secure environments are essential due to their prey drive and territorial instincts.

Instinctual Work Drive

The breed’s hunting origin imparts a powerful prey drive and a natural instinct to guard. Akitas are exceptional watchdogs, alerting only when necessary and rarely barking without cause. Their protective nature is instinctive, requiring owners to provide appropriate outlets for their guarding instincts and mental stimulation to avoid boredom.

Behavioral Challenges

Akitas can be stubborn and bossy, challenging inexperienced owners. Without adequate socialization and firm guidance, they may develop aggression towards other dogs and sometimes towards strangers. They do not cope well with prolonged isolation, displaying signs of separation anxiety or destructive behavior if mentally unstimulated. Positive reinforcement and consistent routines help mitigate these challenges.

Akitas are highly intelligent yet possess an assertive and independent temperament that requires knowledgeable and committed owners. Early and consistent training is vital to establish clear leadership and prevent dominance issues. Puppy training focuses on establishing boundaries, socialization, and basic obedience commands essential for safe handling as they mature.

Training Priorities for Puppies

From the first days in a new home, Akita puppies require careful introduction to people, environments, and other animals to curb aggression tendencies. Key commands include sit, stay, down, heel, quiet, recall, and leave it. Early socialization and gentle, firm handling ensure they develop into manageable companions.

Effective Training Techniques

Akitas respond best to positive reinforcement methods combining firmness and fairness without harsh corrections. Motivating with treats, praise, and play fosters a willing learner. Maintaining consistency throughout life is crucial, as lapses in training can lead to behavioral regressions.

Advanced Training Opportunities

This breed excels in advanced obedience, agility, and activities that engage both mind and body, such as tracking or therapy work. However, training to be a guard dog is discouraged due to behavioral risk and breeder recommendations. Smart owners channel their Akita's natural guarding instincts into safe and controlled activities.

Training Pitfalls

Overtraining can lead to stress and unmanageability; owners must balance discipline with relaxation. Allowing inconsistent leadership or ignoring socialization leaves behavioral problems unchecked. Trusting an Akita off-lead in unsecured areas is risky given their prey drive and strong will.

Interactions by Age

Akitas are patient and can be good companions for children they grow up with, from toddlers to teenagers, though they prefer calm household environments and tend to avoid overly noisy or boisterous children. They display loyalty and protective instincts, especially towards family kids, making supervision crucial when guests or numerous children are present.

Teaching Kids Proper Interaction

Children must be educated to respect an Akita's space and understand behavior boundaries. Teaching gentle touch, avoiding sudden movements, and not disturbing the dog when resting helps foster a safe and mutually respectful bond.

Considerations for the Breed

Given their size and strength, Akitas are not suited for families with very young children unsupervised. Their high energy and protective nature mean only acquainted, well-socialized dogs should be introduced to children, and interactions must always be overseen.

Ensuring Safety

Supervision is essential to prevent accidental harm during playtimes, both to children and the dog. Providing quiet retreat areas for the Akita and teaching children when to disengage helps maintain harmony. Owners should manage dog-to-dog interactions carefully given Akitas' known dog-aggression tendencies.

Health Concerns Specific to the Breed

The Akita is generally a robust breed with a lifespan averaging 12 to 14 years, but owners should be aware of predispositions to certain inherited and acquired conditions including autoimmune hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric torsion), luxating patella, von Willebrand's disease, and vestibular syndrome. Skin disorders linked to Akita thyroid are also notable. Akitas have heightened sensitivity to certain drugs, particularly anesthetics, requiring veterinary caution.

Necessary Genetic Testing

Prospective breeders and owners should ensure testing for hip dysplasia via the BVA/KC scheme, eye examinations, and screening for von Willebrand's disease. These tests are essential to help reduce hereditary disease risk and inform responsible breeding decisions.

Preventive Health Measures

Vaccination adherence, including primary puppy courses and boosters, is critical alongside routine health checks. Due to their sensitivity to medications, blood tests before vaccinations and vet consultations on drug prescriptions are advisable. Weight management helps prevent secondary health issues.

Insurance Insights

Given breed-specific health risks, choosing veterinary insurance with comprehensive coverage including hereditary conditions is wise. Owners should prepare for potential claims related to joint diseases, autoimmune disorders, and dermatological treatment costs. Regular screening contributes to maintaining good health and minimizing expenses over the Akita’s life.

Routine Daily Care

Akitas require daily exercise sessions lasting one to two hours, comprising walks, play, and mental stimulation such as puzzle toys or training games. Grooming should occur regularly to manage seasonal shedding and maintain coat health. Daily interaction and social engagement are vital to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.

Environmental Requirements

This breed thrives best in homes with large, secure gardens to accommodate their energy and need for movement, plus high fences to counteract their known escape skills. Apartments or homes without adequate space are generally unsuitable.

Seasonal Adjustments

Akitas tolerate cold climates admirably due to their thick coats but need careful management in hot summers to prevent heat stress, including access to shade, water, and limited exercise during peak heat periods.

Adjustments for Senior Dogs

Older Akitas require adjustments such as softer bedding, moderate exercise to maintain mobility without strain, monitoring of weight and diet for senior-specific nutrition, and regular vet check-ups to address arthritis and emerging ailments. Environmental safety, including non-slip flooring and easily accessible areas, enhances their quality of life.

Coat Care Routine

Akitas require regular grooming due to their thick double coats, with daily brushing during heavy shedding seasons in spring and fall, and at least weekly brushing year-round to prevent mats and remove loose hairs. Puppies should be acclimated early to grooming routines.

Professional Grooming Needs

Professional grooming three to four times yearly helps manage shedding and keeps the coat healthy, with bathing done when necessary. Groomers also ensure thorough drying to prevent skin issues given the dense coat.

Home Grooming Tips

Owners should use slicker brushes, grooming gloves, and deshedding tools to efficiently maintain the coat at home. Nail trimming, ear checks, and tooth brushing are important components of total pet care. Scissors with rounded ends are recommended for trimming around sensitive areas.

Grooming Challenges

During shedding, loose hair can come out in clumps, which is normal but may appear alarming to the uninitiated. Regular grooming and attention to skin condition prevent matting and irritation. Seasonal shedding requires increased brushing frequency to maintain coat condition and limit hair spread indoors.

Exercise Needs

Akitas need at least 90 to 120 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, including brisk walks, running, and off-lead play in secure areas. This helps expend their significant energy and supports mental and physical health.

Recommended Activities

Besides basic exercise, Akitas benefit from engaging activities like obedience training, tracking, agility, and interactive games that challenge their intelligence and satisfy their working drive.

Exercise Limitations

Young puppies require cautious exercise to protect growing joints, with gradually increased activity milestones. Avoid excessive exertion in hot weather and manage intensity to prevent overexertion in senior dogs.

Ideas for Mental Engagement

Puzzle feeders, scent work, training sessions, and socialization can help keep an Akita mentally sharp. Rotating toys and regularly introducing new challenges prevents boredom that can lead to destructive behaviors.

Dietary Needs

Akitas require a high-quality diet balanced with 14-21% protein, proper fat levels, and minimal fillers to support their large, muscular bodies and energy needs. Special care is needed to feed multiple smaller meals to reduce the risk of bloat, a common concern for the breed.

Feeding Routine

Puppies should be fed 3-4 times daily, with gradual transitions to adult food around 15 months. Adults thrive on 2-3 smaller meals daily tailored to weight and activity levels.

Dietary Considerations

Gluten-free diets are often recommended, and some owners opt for Bones and Raw Food (BARF) diets after veterinary consultation. Monitoring for any skin or food sensitivities is essential due to predisposition to thyroid-related skin conditions.

Managing Weight

Maintaining an ideal body condition is critical to prevent obesity-related health problems. Regular monitoring of weight and adjusting food portions accordingly keeps the Akita fit and prolongs life quality.

Cost of Purchase

In the US, Akita puppies from reputable breeders typically range from $1,000 to $2,500, while individual breeders may offer them at varying prices depending on bloodline quality, color, and breeder reputation. Show-quality Akitas command higher prices, occasionally exceeding $2,500.

Initial Setup Expenses

Expect initial expenses including quality collars, leads, grooming tools, crate, bedding, feeding bowls, toys, and puppy-proofing materials to cost between $200 and $400. Professional training and early vet visits also contribute to start-up costs.

Monthly Maintenance Costs

Monthly care includes premium dog food ($50-$80), routine grooming needs, insurance ($50-$100 depending on coverage), and regular vet check-ups. Monthly expenses generally range from $150 to $200.

Lifetime Ownership Costs

Lifelong ownership expenses incorporate health care, vaccinations, insurance, and potential treatment for hereditary conditions. Responsible budgeting for emergency vet care and seasonally increased grooming ensures sustained well-being.

You can find Akita for sale on Lancaster Puppies to view current listings and connect with reputable breeders offering well-socialized puppies.

When seeking to purchase an Akita puppy, it is crucial to thoroughly research and select an ethical, reputable breeder. Be cautious of scams, particularly online listings offering unusually low prices; always visit in person to verify the breeder and see the puppies with their dam. Observing interactions will reveal much about socialization and early care.

Akitas are popular and can be bred irresponsibly by amateurs prioritizing profit over welfare. Licensed breeders adhere to Kennel Club regulations, limiting litters per dam and ensuring health testing is thorough. Prospective owners should ask for hip and eye test certificates, pedigree information, and clear vaccination records during visits.

Meet both parents if possible, observing their temperaments as these influence the puppy’s behavior. Ethical breeders often refuse sales to those intending to use Akitas for guarding only, reflecting the breed’s need for balanced companionship rather than aggressive roles.

Rescue and adoption of Akitas is also an option—with dedicated rescues specializing in the breed—offering a chance to provide a home for a dog needing a second chance.

You can find Akita for sale listings on Lancaster Puppies to connect with reliable breeders offering well-socialized puppies.