Akita Breed Characteristics
Height
61 to 71 cm at the shoulder
Weight
32 to 59 kg (70 to 130 lbs)
Life Expectancy
10 to 12 years
Coat Colours
Red, brindle, and white
Akita
Loyal, independent and protective
About the Akita
The Akita has physical features like upright ears, a coat of various colours, and a tail that drapes over the dog’s back. This dog breed is also muscular and strong-looking, indicating the Akita’s strength and power. However, despite being imposing in appearance, the Akita is devoted yet quiet in its love for its family.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Akita, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
Rated 3 out of 5
Friendly with Kids
Rated 2 out of 5
Friendly with Dogs
Rated 1 out of 5
Ease of Grooming
Rated 3 out of 5
Exercise Needs
Rated 4 out of 5
Prey Drive
Rated 4 out of 5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
Rated 4 out of 5
Good for Novice Owners
Rated 2 out of 5
Apartment Living
Rated 2 out of 5
Akita Breed History
The type of dog also became famous due to its rugged terrains. Its origins were in the Akita Prefecture of Japan, where the dog was developed in the 1600s. The dog was originally known in Japan as the Akita Inu and would become more than a dog but a symbol of the persistence of humans living in such an environment.
Statues of these dogs would be found in homes and hospitals in its homeland, bringing good health. However, the influence of this breed would expand due to WW2, as American soldiers would bring Akitas home, leading to the development of the American Akita, a larger and broader version of this dog.
Caring For an Akita
- Temperament: Akitas don’t throw their hearts around willy-nilly. These dogs size up strangers with a cool glance and place their trust in a select circle.
- Grooming: Brush your Akita weekly to keep that dense coat in check. When the seasons tilt, though, brace yourself. Their undercoat will shed in waves, like clouds breaking over a ridge.
- Exercise: They won’t bounce off walls or pace your hallway like a caged lion, but Akitas won’t settle for couch life either. You’ll need to task them—set up an agility trail, run through obedience drills, or hitch them to a cart and let them pull.
- Nutrition: Akitas need to be fed two servings of quality food to ensure good nutrition. Younger dogs may need to be fed more frequently.
- Training: It will be much harder for you if you fail to socialise your dog starting when they’re small. They should get used to crowds, traffic, unfamiliar noises, and faces.
How to Choose a Responsible Akita Breeder
When it comes to getting a new pup, you don’t want to leave anything to chance. You want somebody who is serious about their dogs and about the breed, people who are going to take every measure to avoid genetic health issues like autoimmune diseases or hip dysplasia.
You want to be able to see the living space of the pup, and the dogs should all look healthy and happy—not scared and flinching.
And brace yourself—good breeders ask hard questions. They’ll dig into your schedule, your dog knowledge, your living setup. They’re not being nosy—they’re defending the breed they’ve poured their soul into.
Akita FAQ
Are Akitas Good with Children and Other Pets?
Akitas forge deep bonds with their families, often displaying a protective instinct toward children. However, their dominant nature and territorial tendencies call for early socialization and vigilant supervision. While they can cohabit peacefully with kids, it’s important to teach both the dog and the children appropriate boundaries.
With other pets, particularly same-sex dogs, Akitas may assert dominance, leading to potential conflicts. Introductions should be gradual and monitored to foster harmony.
What Health Issues Are Common in Akitas?
Akitas are predisposed to a handful of health challenges, including hip dysplasia, autoimmune conditions, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular vet check-ups, paired with ethical breeding practices, help reduce these risks. Choosing a breeder who prioritizes health testing is one of the best ways to ensure a healthier Akita.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Akita
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
