Akita

Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity, and exercise needs, training, and care of the Akita dog breed in the profile. The Akita is known to have a tendency to some diseases.

In Japan, Akita-like dogs have been known to accompany the samurai for 5,000 years. Since 1603 in Japan in the Akita region “Akita Matagis” (medium-sized dogs for hunting bears) were used for dogfighting. Dogfighting was banned in 1908. During the Second World War, the number of dogs decreased massively because their fur was used to make military clothing. Some breeders have tried to save their dogs from this fate by introducing German shepherds and mastiffs. After the Second World War, the number of dogs increased again, as did the breeders’ efforts to rebuild the characteristics of the original breed. For this, the dogs were crossed with Matagi Akitas. It was possible to re-establish the large, originally pure breed.

General Appearance

Large, well-proportioned dog of strong build with lots of substance; secondary sexual characteristics pronounced; much nobility and dignity in modesty; robust constitution. The Akita’s topcoat is hard and straight, the undercoat soft and dense. A red-tawny or sesame-colored coat is typical, brindle and white specimens are also accepted according to the breed standard.

Behavior and temperament

Calm, loyal, obedient, and receptive is how the breed standard describes these dogs. However, connoisseurs of the breed also attest to a great deal of independence, which under certain circumstances may conflict with the plans of the owner. An Akita cannot be forced. In fact, they are characterized by a great deal of deliberation and dignity, remaining absolutely calm even in hectic moments. They are initially reserved towards strangers, are loyal to loved ones, and also develop a corresponding protective instinct. Dogs develop their wild temperament outdoors: this is where it is all too often shown that they used to be used for hunting. Some Akita tend to poach and must be strictly controlled in this regard.

Need for employment and physical activity

Akitas need a lot of exercises, are ideal for various dog sports or as a sporting companion for humans. In some specimens, however, the hunting instinct is so strong that they are only allowed to run free in closed terrain. The hunting instinct can possibly be brought under control with consistent training and corresponding “substitute games”. It is important that the owner offers the dog a lot of variety and makes him feel like he can have the greatest adventures when he stays close to his human.

Upbringing

Akitas are incredibly stubborn and will not be forced to do anything they absolutely don’t want to do. Only when the Akita understands what you want from him and why will he do it enthusiastically. In addition, this dog will surprise you with the fact that once it has been learned, it will carry it out on its own before you even think of asking it. This dog is certainly not suitable for choleric people, because its stubbornness and calmness should simply drive them crazy. However, one must not react harshly to the peculiarities of this dog, because then one loses his trust and he decides to be his own boss.

Maintenance

The Akita sheds twice a year and needs human help, which means a lot of grooming. At this time, the dog must be brushed daily to remove dead hair from the coat. The rest of the time, the Akita is very easy to care for thanks to its dirt- and water-repellent coat.

Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases

The Akita is known to have a tendency to some diseases, which should not occur with responsible breeding: Sebadentitis (skin disease), hypothyroidism, HD, congenital vestibular syndrome (a hereditary disease of the inner ear).

Did you know?

 

Images of Akitas are still given as good luck charms in Japan today.