The Akita, also known as the American Akita, is a courageous breed that originated in Akita, Japan during the 19th century as a watchdog and hunting dog. There are two distinct varieties: the Japanese Akita and the American Akita, which evolved into a stronger, more robust version after American servicemen brought the breed to the United States following World War II. The Akita was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1972 and is believed to have been introduced to America by Helen Keller after her visit to Japan. These large dogs feature a thick, fuzzy double coat in various colors, a broad muzzle, pointy ears, and moderate year-round shedding that becomes heavy once or twice annually.
Alert, dignified, and courageous, Akitas are deeply affectionate and loving with family members but tend to be hesitant around strangers, making them excellent guardians. This breed has a variable temperament and requires experienced handling, as they can become aggressive and willful without proper training and boundary-setting during puppyhood. They are not recommended for first-time dog owners and require careful socialization to get along with children. With higher-than-average energy levels, Akitas need daily mental and physical exercise plus time to run freely in secure, enclosed areas, along with weekly grooming that increases during their seasonal coat-blowing periods.
Akita
Nikki has a calm temperament. She is playful, inquisitive, loves affectionate, and gentle nature.
Akita
Kimi is full of play, very happy with a calm temperament. She loves belly rubs, inquisitive, loves affectionate, and gentle nature.
Akita
Jack has a very gentle temperament. He is playful, alert to his environment, loves to be held, affectionate, and inquisitive.
Akita
Kuma has a calm temperament. He's playful, inquisitive, loves affectionate, and gentle nature.
Akita
Ace has a calm and gentle temperament. He is playful, submissive, loves affection, and has a gentle nature.
Akita
Sam has a calm, submissive temperament. He likes to investigate, plays alone at times, very gentle, and loves affectionate.
Akita
Red Male is a Akita Puppy Born on 11/22/25. -LancasterPuppies
Akita
White Male is a Akita Puppy Born on 11/22/25. -LancasterPuppies
Akita
White Female is a Akita Puppy Born on 11/22/25. -LancasterPuppies
The average cost of a purebred Akita puppy in the United States is approximately $1516, though prices can vary based on factors such as pedigree, breeder reputation, and location.