Akita  - Breed Information

Are you interested in getting a dog that has a commanding and built presence such that nobody dares messes with you or breaks into your house? Then you are in for a treat of one of the long-existing dog breeds called Akita. Known famously as the Japanese Akita (more about his later), it is an elegant breed of canines that you’ll definitely love to have if you’re fun of wild dogs that are truly loyal to their owners. Most dog owners love everything about this dog. But would you? Well, you’re about to find out if you and the Japanese Akita will be a good fit for each other.

Appearance

The Japanese Akita stands between 22-27 inches at the shoulders and weighs in between 75-120 pounds. They can be found in different colors; pure white, brindle, sesame, fawn and red. Similar to most other Japanese dog breeds, Akitas have fuzzy and dense double coats that are composed of soft fur on the inside and a coarse outer coat.

History

Now the Japanese Akita is among the biggest of the Japanese dogs.  Centuries ago, they were bred in the mountainous areas of the Akita prefecture. Over time, they were mixed with many other dog breeds in the area like the Tosa and Hokkaido.  Even then, Akitas were very popular especially among the Shogun as they were used to track wild animals and keep them at bay until their masters arrive for the kill.

Fast forward to the mid-1950s,  an American named Helen Keller brought the first pair of Japanese Akitas into the United States where it became immensely popular. In 1956, the Akita Club of America was established and not long after, the Japanese Akita was accepted by the American Kennel Club as a working type dog.

Temperament

Japanese Akitas can be described as smart and incredibly devoted animals. As they were once hunting dogs, Akitas are very energetic and do not tire quickly. They can live happily in a small home as long as they are given plenty of exercises. They can often turn destructive if not given an outlet for their pent-up energy.

Like the majority of Japanese breeds, Akitas need to socialize as puppies so that they get along towards other canines and people. They have been known to be very excited at seeing their owners wiggling around and making happy grunts. They are great with kids and very protective of their family. Hence they make an excellent family dog with a bit of training and socialization.

The American standard Akita is the most popular in the United States, as highlighted in our Akita calendars, and it is very similar to the Japanese Akita. In fact, within these Akita calendars, you’ll discover stunning photographs that make these ideal gift ideas or excellent options for the home.

Potential Health Problems

Akitas are also known to be predisposed to particular health problems which include the following:

• Atopy - allergic condition that causes itching, hair loss, and skin infection
• Pemphigus - an autoimmune disorder that causes pustules and lacerations.
• Hypothyroidism - low production of thyroid hormone that leads to loss of hair, weight gain, infertility, and other persistent metabolic conditions.
• Cataracts - that lead to partial or complete loss of sight
• Canine hip dysplasia - a malformation of the hip joints that trigger arthritis.

Care and Grooming

The Akitas life expectancy varies from 10 to 12 years. As with any pet dog with a double coat, the Akita requires regular grooming. These dogs can go through up to two heavy sheddings every year.

An Akita calendar will help you keep track of all upcoming events so that you never have to explain to anyone why you missed an important appointment or event.