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Akita History

The Akita originated in Japan and it has been named for the Akita Prefecture, the area of Japan where it has thought to have originated from. It's ancestors were used as a hunting dog and were used to pursue elk, antelope and bear. During World War Two, the breed almost suffered extinction, they were killed for their pelts or eaten as food by the starving population. In 1931, the Akita breed was officially declared a Japanese Natural Monument.

Akita Temperament

Akita dogs have a noble temperament and are often viewed as being aloof. They are also strong willed and independent, which can make training difficult. They are very loyal and protective of their families so they make excellent watchdogs. Akitas are good with the children that they are raised with, but they can be standoffish with strangers. They tend to be socially dominant dogs and usually do not do well with other dogs of the same sex. Akitas do not require an excessive amount of exercise. They are not recommended as a beginner dog for first time owners and are better suited for owners that have had some experience with dog ownership.

Akita Appearance

Akita dogs are a large powerful breed northern breed. The females usually weigh between 70 to 100 pounds and the males usually weigh between 100 to 130 pounds. Akitas stand 23 to 26 inches at the withers. They have large bear like heads and their tails are carried in a curl over their backs. They have very thick double coats. There are various coat colors available, and this includes fawn, red, white, brindle, and silver.

Akita Grooming

Akitas need weekly grooming to look neat and presentable. They are easy keepers and keep themselves clean. Akitas are heavy seasonal shedders, so people that do not like a lot of dog hair in the house might not want to own this dog.

Akita Life Expectancy and Health Problems

The average lifespan of an Akita is 10 to 14 years. The most common problems reported are cancer and gastric bloat

Famous Akitas

The most famous Akita is Hachiko. He would meet his owner at the train station every day after he came home from work. After his owner died at work, Hachiko faithfully waited at the train station for his owner to return, every day, until his death nine years later. Hachiko so captured the hearts and minds of the Japanese people that they named the train station and erected a statue in his honor

Akita Pros and Cons

This simplfied list may help you in deciding if an Akita will be a good fit for your lifestyle

Do You Want

• a very large dog?
• a dog that has a big fluffy coat?
• an independent dog?

Do You NOT Want

• a socially dominant dog that can be aggressive towards other dogs and people?
• a dog that sheds a lot?
• a dog that takes up a lot of space?

Useful Akita Links

The Akita Club of America

The Akita Club of Canada

The Akita Network - a straighforward website with information about training, breeding and Akita health