The Akita Inu: A Quick Guide

“Fierce as a Samurai, gentle as a kitten”

“Gentle when stroked, fierce when provoked”

“Tender in heart and strong in strength”

“Gentle in the heart, but brave and strong on the surface.”

Akita-Dog

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Traits

Akita Inus can be very protective, they tend to bond with one member of the family more than the others. This protectiveness come from their guarding origins care needs to be taking in training and socialisation to ensure that this protectiveness is not too severe.

Akitas are known for their determined nature which can often be described as headstrong or stubborn. This can make them a challenge  to train and are not usually recommended for first time dog owners.

Very adaptable dog which will do well in any peaceful, family environment. From small apartments to large farms but larger areas are preferred; as when a dog as large as this gets the zoomies you may want to take cover XD. These are not outdoor dogs they love to be with the family and it’s in their nature to need to know where everyone is at all times.

Not overly energetic dogs (except at zoomies time) in fact excessive exercise is known to cause them stress.

Statistics

Origin: Japan, Region of Akita

Family: Spitz

Group: Utility

Weight: male – 38.5-45.3kg. Female – 29-43kg

Height: male – 64-70cm. Female – 58-64cm

Colour: Red & White, White, Brindle, Sesame. All with Urajiro markings – white on sides of muzzle, cheeks, jaw, neck, chest, body, tail & inner leg

Life Span: said to be 10-12 years but known to live to 14

Features

A dense think, double coat which is coarse (unless long coated when fur is at least 4″ in length and is much softer). The tail is curled and held upon the back. The head quite flat in shape is in balance with the body and the tail is large enough to counter balance.

Their wide, flat skull shows ears that are wide set and dark brown almond shaped eyes. Ears are triangular in shape and should always stand erect after the pup has matured. Nose is broad with black lips. Their teeth feature a scissor bite upper teeth touch and engage with lower incisors.

Health

Like each breed the Akita is prone to various health concerns. Some more nasty then others but to be warned is forearmed so please research these concerns and recognise the early symptoms. Issues include but is not limited to:

• SA
• Microcytosis
• Auto immune diseases
• Bloat
• Hip dysplasia
• Eye disorders

 

Grooming & Caring

A double coated dog should be brushed at least with a slicker brush & undercoat rake, this will ensure the dog is free of knots and mats. Like most double coated breeds they do not shed daily they blow their coats twice a year to renew their undercoat; brushing should occur more during this time.

The Akitas outer coat is water resistant and will require a lot of care when bathing which should occur around 4 times per year. Nail trims and teeth care are recommended at home as needed.

Akita Inu vs Akita

There are two distinct breeds in the Akita family. The Japanese Akita Inu & American Akita. They differ in size, shape and colour. The graphic below:

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