I am a huge fan of the Akita Inu Japanese dog breed due to their majestic look and composed behavior. Nowadays, I think of them as a mix of cuteness and arrogance. It’s a rare and pretty expensive breed but a loyal and intelligent one.
Source: Needpix
Characteristics
| Origin | Northern Japan, Asia |
| Other names | Akita ken Kuma Inu, Great Japanese dog |
| Breed group | Working group |
| Size | Large |
| Height | 23-28 inches |
| Weight | 55-130 pounds |
| Colors | Red, white, brindle |
| Life expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Coat | Short to medium, thick, soft, dense |
| Shedding | A lot of shedding, especially during spring |
| Barking tendency | Low- they only bark when there’s a good reason |
| Temperament | Intelligent, courageous, loyal, stubborn |
| Price | $1000-$3000 |
Facts About the Japanese Akita Inu Dog
If you want to become the owner of an Akita Inu dog, you should prepare yourself since they’re strong-willed and independent. Still, with an Akita Inu by your side, you’ll experience loyalty like never before. These dogs are famously devoted, and they have ancient, noble origins.
At first, they were used as royal guard dogs but also as hunting companions, especially for bears and boars. Unlike many other dogs that love to bark, Akita Inu is naturally quiet. They’re only vocal when absolutely necessary. Hence, you’ll gain a respectful and dignified home protector.
Physical Traits of the Akita Dog Breed
dd Akita Inu are muscular, tall dogs with thick, dense fur and fluffy, curled tails. I love their well-proportioned body, elegant posture, and broad head with pointy ears and cute almond-shaped eyes.
I also love running my hand through their double-layered plush coat. Besides their curled tail, these dogs’ fur colors—white, red, and brindle—are another distinctive feature.
Source: GoodFon
Weight and Height
Akita dogs are large and tall, featuring the following measurements:
- Male Akita dogs grow up to be 25-28 inches and have a weight that ranges between 60-130 pounds.
- Female Akita Inu weigh 70-100 pounds and are 24-26 inches tall;
As you can see, these are strong pets with a solid build and a commanding presence. You’ll fall in love with their balanced proportions and graceful appearance.
Coat and Fur
Like husky dogs, Akita also has a double coat consisting of two layers: an outer plush one and inner softer and protective fur. In terms of length, Akita’s coat can be short or medium. The first time I touched an Akita’s fur, I was highly impressed by how it felt. It was like the perfect combination of a high-quality Persian rug and a lush, plush carpet.
Akita Dog Breed Temperament
Akita Inu dogs are loyal and devoted, alert and protective, affectionate yet dignified, and independent. They’re also strong-willed and pretty reserved around other pets, especially dogs. While these dogs are highly loyal to their families, they’re also reserved towards strangers.
Don’t be surprised if your pet becomes territorial toward your home, as this is one of Akita’s tendencies. One of their many perks is their quietness; Akita doesn’t bark if he doesn’t have to. On the other hand, these are very stubborn dogs that could act a bit hostile around people outside of their families.
Because of their assertiveness, they require obedience training.
Common Health Problems
If you take your Akita Inu dog to his regular vet appointments, I am sure you’ll prevent or avoid numerous diseases. Still, this breed is prone to certain health conditions:
- Von Willebrand Disease – a lack of a protein type that leads to bleeding abnormalities.
- Specific types of cancer like osteosarcoma or bone cancer;
- Cranial cruciate ligament injuries – problems and sensitivities in the knee joint;
- Hip dysplasia – femur abnormalities or deformity;
- Gastric dilatation – or the common bloating;
- Thyroid issues that can lead to dry skin, thinning hair, lethargy, and weight gain;
- Myasthenia Gravis – when the muscles and nerves of your dog’s body are affected and weakened;
- Retinal atrophy – unfortunately, there’s no cure for this genetic eye condition;
- Sebaceous Adenitis – an inflammatory autoimmune disease that affects your dog’s sebaceous glands;
- Zinc-responsive dermatosis – a form of mineral deficiency;
Average Lifespan
Usually, an Akita Inu dog lives up to 10-12 years, but you can increase your pet’s lifespan if you take good care of him. Some Akita pups might live up to the age of 15 years. When I say proper care, I am referring to:
- Nutritious food and a balanced diet, rich in protein and healthy fats, and limited treats;
- Regular exercise – interactive and stimulating playtime, daily walks;
- Dental care – brushing your Akita’s teeth is part of the pet’s oral health, which can prevent periodontal disease;
- Mental stimulation – interactive toys, training sessions, and puzzle games;
- Routine health check-ups – vaccinations, deworming, and regular vet appointments;
- Spaying or neutering – can significantly lower the risk of multiple health issues, including cancer;
- Skin care – part of your dog’s grooming routine through frequent brushing and occasional baths.
How Trainable Is a Japanese Akita Dog?
Training stubborn Akita dogs can be challenging, but the results will be optimal if you start when your pet is still a puppy. The proper approach is firm yet gentle. Be consistent in your commands and always rely on positive reinforcement.
Do your best to establish mutual trust. Here are some helpful guidelines:
- Start socializing your dog when he’s about nine weeks old by exposing him to different people, other animals, and environments – always be by his side to protect or calm him down if necessary;
- Akita Inu pups respect authority, so you, as their owner, should have a leadership role. They will test your boundaries, but you must stand your ground;
- Start with basic and simple commands and shorter training sessions, then gradually increase the educational lessons;
- Both leash and crate training are essential;
- Rely on your pet’s favorite treats and mental stimulation methods.
Source: GoodFon
Akita Inu Japanese Dogs’ Nutritional Needs
These dogs are large and active, so they need food that’s rich in premium protein, essential nutrients, and healthy fats, alongside minerals and vitamins:
- Protein – turkey, chicken, fish, beef (between 20% and 30% of a dog’s diet);
- Fats – chicken fat, fish oil, flaxseed fats (between 8% and 15% of the diet);
- Carbs – oats, sweet potatoes, brown rice (between 30% and 50% of your pet’s diet);
- Fiber – veggies, beet pulp, and pumpkin;
- Minerals and vitamins – calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, D, E, B, and C.
Adult Akita pups should receive 3-4 meals daily, whereas adult dogs should be fed twice per day.
Grooming and Maintenance
Remember that these dogs have two coat layers, so you’ll need a de-shedding tool, an undercoat rake, and a slicker fur brush. You should brush an Akita pup a couple of times per week, while bathing should occur once every two months.
Trim your pet’s nails once per month with a special nail clipper, avoiding the quick. Follow the same frequency when it comes to ear cleaning. Finally, don’t forget to groom his paw pads and brush his teeth.
FAQs
Are Akita Inu Pups Good Around Kids?
The ideal family for an Akita Inu dog is one with older children who have already learned how to interact with pets. They’re loyal but moody and powerful, so don’t leave them alone with smaller kids.
Are Akita Inu Dogs Well-Behaved Around Other Pets?
Akita Inus can become reserved or even aggressive around other pets, especially male dogs, when not trained. But, with persistence and patience, you can manage your pet’s behavior.
Is It OK to Keep My Akita Inu in an Apartment?
An apartment isn’t the ideal living environment for an Akita Inu, given his large size. However, he could adapt if you offer them plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Still, a house with a yard is better suited.
Final Bark
What I love most about Akita Inu Japanese dogs is their posture, dignified appearance, loyalty, elegant looks, and protective instincts. These dogs can be excellent companions if you can provide them with enough socialization and exercise.
