Akita

Named for the Akita province in Japan, this breed dates back to the 1600s. Used originally to guard royalty in the county, it was used secondarily to hunt large game and fowl. What many people do not know is that Helen Keller was the person credited with introducing the breed to America. During a trip to Japan, Keller was presented with a puppy of her own that she named Kamikaze-go. Unfortunately, the dog passed away from distemper and was replaced by Kenzan-go, its older brother. More Akitas were brought to the United States after World War II. The American Akita breeding program started in 1956, producing dogs that were more robust than their Japanese kin.

The Akita has a big build with heavy bones, which reflects its original function as a hunting dog in deep snow. Akitas have thick, double coats consisting of dense undercoats and wooly outer coats giving them perfect insulation from the cold. They are low in maintenance when it comes to grooming, but need weekly brushing.

Personality

The Akita is a very loyal and protective companion. It is an independent and stubborn dog, and may be domineering. The Akita dog needs lots of exercise on a daily basis in the form of running or long walks. They can be good and gentle with children if they were raised with them, but do not tolerate teasing. This breed is not always tolerant with other dogs and can be aggressive towards strangers.

Breed Characteristics

Akita Build Information

The Akita has a big build with heavy bones, which reflects its original function as a hunting dog in deep snow. Akitas have thick, double coats consisting of dense undercoats and wooly outer coats giving them perfect insulation from the cold. They are low in maintenance when it comes to grooming, but need weekly brushing.

Behaviour and Personality

The Akita is a very loyal and protective companion. It is an independent and stubborn dog, and may be domineering. The Akita dog needs lots of exercise on a daily basis in the form of running or long walks. They can be good and gentle with children if they were raised with them, but do not tolerate teasing. This breed is not always tolerant with other dogs and can be aggressive towards strangers.

Appearance

Grooming Akitas is not a difficult process. Potential owners should know that the Akita is a fairly heavy shedder. If you do not want hair in your house, this isn't the breed for you. Shedding is even heavier than normal two to three times per year. Daily brushing can help reduce the amount of hair you find covering your furniture. Brushing also keeps the dog’s coat healthy. At a minimum, your Akita will need to be bathed every few months. You can bathe your dog more often if you like. Toenails should be trimmed every four weeks, and ears should be cleaned weekly.

Akita Common Health Conditions

Most Akitas are very healthy but, like any dog, the breed is prone to specific illnesses. These illnesses and conditions include hip dysplasia, gastric dilation volvulus, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, and sebaceous adenitis. Of these illnesses, gastric dilation volvulus is also known as bloat. This is a condition that can cause death if not treated immediately. Bloat is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach fills with air and turns over on itself. To help prevent this, feed your Akita several small meals throughout the day, do not allow exercise immediately after a meal, and do not let your dog gulp large amounts of water.

Akita Pet Insurance

When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.

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Breed Talents and Facts

Bold and willful, the Akita is happiest as an only dog. Akitas are not recommended for first-time owners. Obedience training and socialization are required. Males tend to weigh between 85 and 130 pounds; females are slightly smaller. Daily, vigorous exercise is a must for this active working breed. Akitas are not typically recommended for families with young children.