
Akita, A Loyal and Noble Guardian
The Akita is a powerful and dignified breed originating from the mountainous regions of Japan.
Known for their unwavering loyalty and imposing presence, they have long been esteemed as courageous protectors and faithful companions.
With their thick double coat, curled tail, and striking appearance, these dogs are not only captivating to behold but also deeply devoted to their families.
Whether it’s standing guard or engaging in playful activities, their blend of strength and gentleness makes them a unique and cherished breed among dog enthusiasts.
Quick Look
KC Group:
Utility
Breed Type:
Spitz
Size:
Large
Height:
24-28 inches
Weight:
70 -130 pounds
Grooming:
Once a week
Sheds:
Yes
Exercise:
1 plus hour a day
Lifespan:
10 plus years
History
The Akita breed traces its origins back to the Akita Prefecture in the northern regions of Japan. Initially bred as hunting dogs, they were used to track and hunt large game such as wild boar, deer, and even bears. Their strength, endurance, and courage made them invaluable companions for hunters. Over time, their role expanded to that of a loyal family guardian, revered for their protective instincts and unwavering loyalty.
During the 17th century, they gained prominence when they became favored by Japanese nobility. These dogs were often kept by samurai and were symbols of status and wealth. The breed’s development was carefully controlled, and only the elite were permitted to own them.
The Akita was first introduced to the UK in the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until after World War II that they began to gain more recognition. The breed’s initial introduction was facilitated by servicemen who brought these noble dogs back from Japan, captivated by their strength, loyalty, and distinct appearance.
The Kennel Club in the UK first registered the Akita breed in 1945. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s and 1990s that the breed saw a significant increase in popularity and recognition within the UK. During this period, the breed began to establish itself more firmly, with enthusiasts and breeders working to promote its unique qualities and ensure the breed standards were maintained.
However, there were two distinct types; one type was more like the Akita in America, while the other was more like the original Japanese Akita Inu. In 2006, The Kennel Club made a pivotal decision to split the two types into two distinct and separate breeds, the Akita (often referred to as the American Akita) and the Japanese Akita Inu. This split was crucial in acknowledging and preserving the differences in their physical characteristics and breeding standards, allowing each type to be judged and appreciated on its own merits. The establishment of separate breed standards helped foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the their rich heritage and diverse lineage within the UK.
Description
KC Group: Utility| Breed Standard
The Akita is a large and powerful dog breed, renowned for its imposing presence and noble bearing. With a robust and well-balanced build, they are both athletic and graceful, embodying a blend of strength and elegance. They possess several distinctive physical characteristics that set them apart from other breeds.
Size and Proportion: Male Akitas typically stand between 26 to 28 inches (66 to 71 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 100 to 130 pounds (45 to 59 kg). Females are slightly smaller, standing between 24 to 26 inches (61 to 66 cm) and weighing between 70 to 100 pounds (32 to 45 kg). Their body is slightly longer than tall, creating a balanced and sturdy appearance.
Head: The Akita’s head is broad and massive, with a flat top and a pronounced stop. The muzzle is broad and full, tapering slightly but remaining strong. The nose is typically black, although lighter-coloured Akitas may have a lighter nose. Their small, dark eyes convey a keen and alert expression. Ears are erect, triangular, and set well apart, adding to the breed’s alert and intelligent demeanor.
Coat: They have a dense double coat that is both weather-resistant and insulating. The outer coat is straight and harsh to the touch, while the undercoat is soft and thick. Coat colours and patterns are varied, including white, brindle and pinto, with no particular preference given to any one colour in the breed standard.
Body: The body of an Akita is well-muscled and sturdy. The chest is deep and broad, providing excellent lung capacity. Their back is level and strong, with a slightly tucked-up belly. The tail is one of the breed’s most distinctive features: it is thick, set high, and carried over the back in a graceful, full curl or double curl.
Legs and Feet: They have strong, straight legs with heavy bone structure, giving them an appearance of strength and stability. Their feet are cat-like, compact, and well-knuckled, contributing to their powerful and efficient gait.
Gait: The Akita moves with a purposeful and powerful stride. Their gait is balanced and efficient, reflecting their heritage as working dogs capable of enduring long periods of activity.
Temperament: In addition to their physical attributes, they are known for their dignified and reserved temperament. They are typically aloof with strangers but form deep bonds with their family members. Known for their loyalty and protective nature, they are excellent guardians and companions, combining a calm demeanor with an inherent sense of duty.
The Akita’s unique combination of strength, beauty, and loyalty makes them a standout breed, treasured by dog enthusiasts and families alike. Their imposing stature and noble appearance are matched by a deeply devoted and protective nature, embodying the essence of a true guardian and companion.
Character and Temperament
The Akita is renowned for its dignified and courageous character, embodying a unique blend of strength, loyalty, and independence. These traits make them a distinguished and often formidable presence, both as a companion and a guardian.
Loyal and Devoted:
One of the most defining characteristics of the Akita is its unwavering loyalty to its family. They form deep, enduring bonds with their owners and are exceptionally devoted to those they consider part of their pack. This loyalty often manifests in a protective nature, as they are naturally inclined to safeguard their family and home.
Aloof and Reserved:
Akitas tend to be aloof and reserved around strangers. They are not typically outwardly friendly or exuberant with people they do not know, preferring to observe and assess new situations from a distance. This reserved nature is balanced by a calm and composed demeanor, contributing to their reputation as dignified and noble dogs.
Intelligent and Independent:
They are highly intelligent and possess a strong independent streak. They are capable problem solvers and can be quite resourceful. This intelligence means they are quick to learn, but their independent nature can sometimes translate to a stubborn streak. Consistent, firm, and positive training methods are essential to harness their intelligence effectively.
Courageous and Protective:
Historically bred as hunting and guard dogs, they have a natural instinct to protect. They are courageous and will not hesitate to defend their family if they perceive a threat. This protective instinct makes them excellent watchdogs, but it also means they require proper socialisation from an early age to distinguish between genuine threats and everyday situations.
Calm and Quiet:
Unlike some breeds that are prone to excessive barking, Akitas are generally quiet dogs. They are more likely to observe silently rather than vocalize their presence. This calm demeanor contributes to their reputation as serene and composed companions.
Affectionate with Family:
Despite their aloofness with strangers, they can be incredibly affectionate and loving with their family members. They enjoy spending time with their owners and can be particularly gentle and patient with children, although supervision is always recommended due to their size and strength.
Playful and Engaging:
Akitas have a playful side, especially when interacting with their family. They enjoy engaging in activities that stimulate their mind and body, and they thrive on having a purpose or job to do. This playful nature, combined with their loyalty, makes them wonderful companions for active families.
Dominant and Territorial:
Due to their dominant nature, they can be territorial, particularly with other animals. They may not always get along with other dogs, especially of the same sex, and may exhibit aggression towards smaller pets. Proper socialisation and training are crucial to managing these tendencies and ensuring they coexist harmoniously with other animals.
Their character and temperament make them a remarkable breed, ideal for experienced dog owners who can provide the structure, training, and socialisation they need. Their combination of loyalty, intelligence, and protectiveness ensures they are not just pets, but valued and irreplaceable members of the family.
Grooming
Grooming an Akita is essential to maintaining their health and ensuring they look their best. With their dense double coat and overall hygiene needs, regular grooming sessions are important. Their double coat consists of a dense, soft undercoat and a harsher outer coat, which requires regular maintenance to keep it healthy and free from mats and tangles.
Brushing should be done at least once or twice a week, and during shedding seasons—typically occurring twice a year—daily brushing is recommended to manage the heavy shedding. For regular brushing, a slicker brush or a pin brush is ideal, while a rake or de-shedding tool is useful for removing loose undercoat during shedding seasons.
They do not need frequent baths, and bathing them only when they get particularly dirty or have skin issues is sufficient. It’s important to use a high-quality dog shampoo that is gentle on their skin and avoid over-bathing, as it can strip the natural oils from their coat and skin.
Regular nail trimming is essential for their comfort and health, as overgrown nails can cause discomfort and lead to issues with their gait. Nails should be trimmed every 3-4 weeks, using a dog nail clipper or grinder, or you can seek help from a professional groomer or veterinarian.
Ear care is also important for Akitas, who have relatively small, erect ears that need to be checked regularly for signs of infection, wax buildup, or debris. Their ears should be inspected and cleaned weekly using a dog ear cleaning solution and a cotton ball or pad to gently clean the outer part of the ear. Do not use cotton buds, nor insert anything into the ear canal.
Good dental hygiene is crucial for their overall health, so brushing their teeth several times a week using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste is recommended. We like using a finger toothbrush. Providing dental chews or toys designed to help keep their teeth clean and reduce tartar buildup can also be beneficial.
Regular inspection and gentle cleaning of the eyes are necessary as they can be prone to certain eye conditions. Their eyes should be checked daily for signs of redness, discharge, or irritation, and cleaned with a pet-safe eye wipe or damp cloth if there is any discharge.
Grooming sessions provide an opportunity to check for skin issues, lumps, or parasites. During grooming, running your hands over your Akita’s body to feel for any abnormalities and checking for ticks or fleas is essential. Ensuring your Akita’s skin remains healthy by providing a balanced diet and keeping them hydrated is also important.
Exercise
The Akita is a robust and energetic breed that requires regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Given their history as working dogs, they thrive on activities that challenge both their bodies and minds. Providing adequate exercise is crucial for preventing boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviours.
Daily exercise is a must for an Akita. They need at least an hour of physical activity each day, which can be split into multiple sessions. Long walks, jogs, and vigorous play sessions in a secure, fenced area are excellent ways to meet their exercise needs. They enjoy exploring and have a strong prey drive, so it’s important to keep them on a lead or in a safe, enclosed space when outside.
In addition to physical exercise, Akitas benefit greatly from mental stimulation. These intelligent dogs enjoy activities that engage their minds, such as puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games. Incorporating training sessions into their daily routine can provide both mental and physical exercise. Advanced obedience training, agility courses, and scent work are excellent options to keep an Akita mentally stimulated.
Socialisation is another important aspect of an Akita’s exercise routine. Exposing them to various environments, people, and other animals from a young age can help mitigate their natural wariness of strangers and other dogs. Supervised playdates with other well-socialised dogs can be beneficial, but caution should be taken due to their dominant and territorial nature.
While Akitas are adaptable and can live in various environments, they do best in homes with access to a yard where they can play and exercise freely. Apartment living can be challenging for this breed unless the owner is committed to providing ample outdoor exercise and activities.
Overall, providing a well-rounded exercise routine that includes physical activity, mental stimulation, and socialisation will help keep an Akita happy, healthy, and well-behaved. Regular exercise not only keeps them fit but also strengthens the bond between the dog and their owner, contributing to a harmonious and fulfilling relationship.
Health
The Akita is generally a healthy breed known for its robust constitution, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain health conditions. Prospective owners should be aware of these potential issues and take preventive measures through responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care.
One of the common health concerns in Akitas is hip dysplasia, a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, potentially leading to arthritis or lameness. Elbow dysplasia, a similar condition affecting the elbows, is also prevalent and should be monitored through regular veterinary checks and appropriate breeding practices.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another genetic concern for the breed, affecting their vision and potentially leading to blindness. Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist are recommended to detect and manage this and other inherited eye diseases.
Autoimmune disorders, such as immune-mediated polyarthritis, can also occur in Akitas. While there are no specific tests for all autoimmune conditions, breeders should be aware of the signs and symptoms, avoiding breeding dogs with a history of autoimmune issues whenever possible.
Bloat, or Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that Akitas, particularly deep-chested breeds, are prone to. Owners should be vigilant for symptoms such as a distended abdomen, unproductive vomiting, and restlessness. Preventive measures include feeding multiple small meals a day, avoiding vigorous exercise after meals, and using elevated food bowls.
The Kennel Club and breed clubs advocate for health schemes and tests to maintain the well-being of Akitas. These include the Hip Dysplasia Scheme (BVA/KC), where breeding dogs undergo x-rays to assess hip joint health, and similar schemes for elbow dysplasia. Regular eye testing is also encouraged to monitor for conditions like PRA.
The typical lifespan of an Akita ranges from 10 to 15 years.
By being proactive about health testing, following recommended schemes, and providing attentive veterinary care, owners can help ensure that their Akita remains healthy and enjoys a long, fulfilling life. Early detection and management of health concerns can significantly enhance the quality of life for this noble and loyal breed.
Training
Training an Akita requires patience, consistency, and a firm yet gentle approach. Akitas are intelligent and independent dogs with a strong sense of loyalty and natural protective instincts. While they can be responsive to training, they also have a dominant nature that requires careful handling and proper socialisation from an early age.
Early Socialisation:
Socialising your puppy from a young age is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults. Expose them to various environments, people of different ages and appearances, other animals, and different situations. Positive experiences during this critical period will help prevent potential behavioural issues later in life.
Basic Obedience:
Start training your dog with basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and toys as rewards for good behaviour. Akitas respond well to training that is consistent, fair, and based on mutual respect.
Leadership and Respect:
Establishing yourself as a calm, confident leader is essential when training an Akita. They respond best to owners who are firm and consistent in their commands without resorting to harsh punishment or physical corrections. They respect assertive yet gentle handling and will thrive in an environment where boundaries are clear.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
Incorporate regular exercise and mental stimulation into your Akita’s daily routine. They are active dogs that enjoy activities that challenge them physically and mentally. Long walks, jogging, interactive games, and obedience training sessions not only keep them physically fit but also prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.
Positive Reinforcement:
Positive reinforcement is highly effective in training Akitas. Reward good behaviour promptly with treats, praise, or playtime to reinforce desired actions. Avoid using harsh methods or punishment, as it can undermine trust and lead to resistance or fear-based behaviours.
Consistency and Patience:
Consistency is key when training them. Stick to a regular training schedule and ensure all family members are on the same page with commands and expectations. Patience is essential, as Akitas may be stubborn at times due to their independent nature. Stay calm and persistent, and avoid becoming frustrated or angry during training sessions.
Special Considerations:
Due to their protective instincts and potential dominance, Akitas may not always get along with other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Early socialisation and controlled introductions are crucial to help them develop appropriate social skills and prevent aggression towards other animals.
Training an Akita requires dedication and understanding of their unique personality traits. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistent training practices, you can cultivate a well-behaved and confident Akita that is a joy to be around and a loyal companion for years to come.
Activities with your Akita
They are versatile dogs that thrive on various activities, including the competitive world of dog showing. Engaging them in these activities not only fulfills their physical and mental needs but also allows them to showcase their unique qualities and abilities.
Outdoor Adventures:
They enjoy outdoor activities such as long walks, hikes in nature trails, and jogging sessions. These activities not only keep them physically active but also provide mental stimulation as they explore new environments. It’s important to keep them on a leash or in a secure area due to their strong prey drive.
Interactive Play:
Interactive play sessions are essential for Akitas to bond with their owners and engage their minds. Activities like fetch with a sturdy ball or frisbee, tug-of-war with a durable rope toy, and hide-and-seek with treats stimulate their natural instincts and provide mental enrichment.
Obedience Training and Agility:
Akitas are intelligent and respond well to obedience training. Teaching them basic commands and participating in agility courses enhances their responsiveness and coordination. Agility courses with hurdles, tunnels, and weave poles challenge their physical abilities and mental agility.
Scent Work and Nose Games:
Due to their keen sense of smell, they excel in scent work activities. Hide treats or toys in various locations and encourage them to use their nose to find them. This stimulates their mind and taps into their natural hunting instincts.
Swimming:
Many Akitas enjoy swimming, which is a great low-impact exercise that keeps them cool in warm weather. Introducing them gradually to water and ensuring they are comfortable can lead to enjoyable water activities.
Dog Showing:
Dog showing allows Akitas to compete and demonstrate their breed characteristics, structure, and temperament. Participation in conformation shows involves presenting yout Akita to judges who evaluate how closely they conform to the breed standard. This includes their appearance, movement, and overall presence. Preparing for showing involves grooming their coat, training them to stack (stand) properly, and teaching them to move gracefully on a lead. Handlers must showcase their dog’s strengths while adhering to show rules and etiquette.
Engaging your Akita in a variety of activities tailored to their needs ensures they lead a fulfilling life. Whether participating in dog showing, enjoying outdoor adventures, or engaging in interactive play, these activities strengthen the bond between you and your Akita while fulfilling their innate drive for physical and mental stimulation.
Suitability of Akita
The Akita is a noble and loyal breed known for its strong personality and distinctive characteristics. Before considering bringing an Akita into your home, it’s important to understand their suitability for different lifestyles and environments.
Experienced Owners
They are best suited for experienced dog owners who understand their independent nature and dominant tendencies. They require firm yet gentle handling and consistent training to thrive. Novice owners may find their strong-willed nature challenging to manage without prior dog handling experience.
Active Families
They are active dogs that enjoy regular exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive in homes where they can participate in outdoor activities like walks, hikes, and interactive play. Families committed to providing consistent exercise and training will find the Akita to be a devoted and affectionate companion.
Single Owners or Couples
Single owners or couples who lead active lifestyles can also provide a suitable environment for an Akita. These dogs bond closely with their owners and enjoy being included in daily activities. They require companionship and interaction with their human family members to thrive emotionally.
Households with Older Children
Akitas can be excellent companions for households with older children who understand how to respect and interact with dogs. Supervision is crucial, especially during playtime, to ensure mutual respect between the dog and children. Akitas are generally patient and gentle with their family members, but may not tolerate rough handling.
Guardianship and Watchdog Abilities
Historically bred as guardians, Akitas possess a natural protective instinct towards their families and territory. They make excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and innate sense of loyalty. However, proper socialisation from an early age is essential to distinguish between normal interactions and potential threats.
Not Suitable for
Akitas may not be suitable for households with small pets, particularly smaller dogs or cats, due to their strong prey drive. Additionally, they may not always get along with other dogs, especially those of the same sex, without proper socialisation and supervision.
Time and Commitment:
Owning an Akita requires a significant time commitment for exercise, training, grooming, and socialisation. They thrive on routine and consistency, and neglecting these aspects can lead to behaviour issues or boredom-related problems.
Understanding the suitability of the Akita for your lifestyle and environment is essential to providing them with a loving and appropriate home. With proper training, socialisation, and care, they can be loyal, affectionate companions and guardians for individuals and families who appreciate their unique qualities and are committed to meeting their needs.