Akita Inu

Because of their remarkable appearance and impressive stature, Akita Inus are a breed that really stands out. These dogs have a lengthy history that dates back to Japan and are well-known for their loyalty and protective demeanor. Akitas were first developed as large game hunters, but they have since developed into devoted family members who are both dignified and affectionate.

The Akita’s strong personality is among its most fascinating features. They can come across as aloof and arrogant because they are self-assured at times. They can, however, become amiable and kind with the correct socialization and training. They make excellent guardians because of their unwavering loyalty to their family.

Having an Akita has its own set of pleasures and difficulties. For these dogs to flourish, they need regular training and socialization. Despite their intelligence and desire to please, they have an independent streak and may not always obey orders without strong guidance. They are capable of becoming well-mannered family members if given time and affection.

The Akita Inu offers a bond unlike any other, whether you are drawn to them because of their regal appearance or devoted personality. When given the proper attention and care, they can add a unique energy to the house and grow to be cherished family members for many years.

General characteristics of the Akita Inu breed

Akita Inus are adorable, cuddly dogs. belongs to the breeds of Spitz that have matured service traits. taller than average, resilient, energetic, and powerful. utilized as a child nanny, friend, security guard, hunter, or guard. Among the fourteen most ancient breeds that have persisted nearly unaltered is this one. A triangular head, erect ears, a ringed tail, and thick, fluffy fur are characteristic characteristics.

An Akita can also be identified by its happy expression. The unique structure of the mouth is responsible for this expression. Akita Inu breed representatives also possess unique personality traits that they inherited from their ancestors. They are astute, self-sufficient, autonomous, loyal, and they will not put up with abuse. They are best suited for an experienced owner only because they can be stubborn and obstinate.

Parameters	Characteristics
country of origin	Japan
breed group according to FCI classification	spitz
life expectancy	10-13 years
height	58-65 cm
weight	female 23-35 kg, male up to 44 kg
service qualities	guard, bodyguard, companion
activity	high
attitude to people	loyal, friendly to family members, can be aggressive
training	complex
health	good
care	simple, but sheds a lot

Pros

Akitas are regarded as some of the most exquisite, perceptive, and devoted animals. They are very expensive, but they have lots of lovers. These dogs are well-liked because of their many benefits.

• Akita Inu lives peacefully both in a private house and in a city apartment. You can keep it in the yard, just do not put it on a chain.
• These are dogs with an attractive appearance. They have a proportional physique, a triangular muzzle. The peculiarity of the breed is its special structure jaws. That"s why it seems like the dog is constantly smiling.
• These animals are very clean. On the street they will not climb into the mud or roll in the dust. They love to swim, do not have a dog smell.
• Akita Inu are very smart dogs. They are easy to train, understand what is required of them. Easily let the owner know what they want.
• Very calm, do not like to impose. They are independent, tolerate loneliness well.
• Security qualities are embedded at the genetic level. Akita does not need to be taught to guard the house. They instinctively protect the owner, members of his family, property.
• They will not make noise without a good reason. They rarely bark or howl, usually growl or snort.
• Thanks to the thick undercoat, Akita easily tolerates cold and heat. It has good thermoregulation.

Cons

There are disadvantages to members of the breed. This fluffy, adorable dog has a strong, independent nature underneath. Look into the drawbacks of owning a pet of this kind in order to prevent issues.

• This dog should be owned by a person with a strong character, self-confident and balanced. If the owner fails to gain authority, she will begin to dominate. Will not obey, will become uncontrollable.
• Do not get along well with other dogs, especially of the same sex, can get into fights. To avoid this, you need to properly socialize.
• Very active, need a lot of physical activity. You need to walk with your pet for a long time, run, play.
• Shed a lot. Requires regular brushing of the fur.
• Problems with nutrition may arise. It is difficult to choose dry food, allergic reactions often occur.
• They are unsociable, not sociable. Without good socialization, they can be aggressive towards strangers.

You can find out more about this breed’s benefits and drawbacks by watching the video:

Video: Breed characteristics of the Akita Inu

Throughout its millennia of existence, the Akita Inu has amassed a wealth of fascinating facts.

• This is one of the ancient breeds, preserved almost unchanged and without impurities. Despite the fact that in the 20th century it almost disappeared, it was possible to restore the unique breed characteristics.
• Until the 17th century, there was a death penalty for killing an Akita in Japan. And people who offended these dogs were sent to prison.
• The Japanese consider Akita a treasure of the country. This dog is a symbol of loyalty, well-being, family happiness.
• It ranks 14th in the popularity rating of breeds. This is explained not only by the character traits of the Akita Inu, but also by its attractive appearance.
• Akita is sensitive to the violation of personal space. It accepts affection only when it wants it.
• Akita Inu reach a standard size by the age of 2 years. They grow and mature slowly, the dog is fully developed by 3 years.
• Before World War II, representatives of the breed lived a long time – up to 14-15 years. After the bombing of Hiroshima, due to radiation, life expectancy became no more than 12 years.
• In 2012, a puppy of this breed was presented to the President of Russia.

Hachiko"s story

In many ways, the popularity of the Akita Inu breed is explained by the history of the dog Hachiko. It was the film about this loyal dog that made it famous in Russia and around the world. The Akita Inu dog accompanied its owner to the station every day and met him in the evening. But one day the owner did not return from work, he died of a stroke. The faithful dog continued to come to the station. He waited for his beloved owner for 9 years until he died of heart disease. Everyone knew this loyal dog in Japan, mourning was declared for him. After that, the breed was made a symbol of loyalty, and a monument to Hachiko was erected at the Shibua station. A film was made about him in Japan in 1987 and a remake in 2009 in America. Pictures from the popular film "Hachiko: A Dog"s Tale":

Akita Inu’s picture from the movie "Hachiko: A Dog’s Tale"

Akita Inu’s picture from the movie "Hachiko: A Dog’s Tale"

Akita Inu’s picture from the movie "Hachiko: A Dog’s Tale"

Origin of the Akita Inu dog breed

Akita Inu – This is the largest dog of the Japanese breeds. The name translates as "dog from the province of Akita". In appearance, it resembles a Shiba Inu or "Japanese dwarf", they differ only in size. These are dogs from the Spitz group, descended from the ancient Matagi Ken, used in ancient times to hunt large animals, even bears. The ancestors of modern Akitas lived on the islands of Japan 8 thousand years ago. Archaeologists have found many images of such dogs in ancient tombs. Ancient hunting dogs were strong, hardy, and could withstand harsh climatic conditions. People began to select those that were more attached to home and people.

The province of Akita was the site of selection. These more obedient and peaceful dogs were put to work as security dogs. The new breed won the emperor’s approval and gained popularity among the nobility. These dogs are first mentioned in writing in the seventeenth century. Their uniqueness lies in the fact that they were selected without the inclusion of other breeds, thus preserving all the traits of old dogs.

Because Akita Inus are highly regarded in Japan, it is forbidden to even raise your voice toward them. Every dog in the imperial palace had a servant. In the 20th century, they were designated as "natural monuments" and "treasures of Japan" because they were revered.

In an attempt to enhance and amplify the size of the native Japanese breeds for use in dog fights, crossbreeding them with imported European dogs was attempted in the 19th century. As a result, they started to exhibit aggressive traits and lost their breed identity.

At the beginning of the 20th century, a society was created to preserve native Japanese breeds. The most famous of them are Akita and Shiba Inu. They were forbidden to crossbreed with other breeds. In the 1930s, the first standard was created, the breed was registered under the name Akita Inu. Another test awaited these dogs during World War II. They participated in battles and were almost exterminated. Some representatives of this breed have survived thanks to fanciers who hid them in remote villages. And after the war, its revival began. At the same time, a second breed line appeared – the American Akita Inu. These dogs were bred from individuals brought to America by the military. This is how the ancient Japanese breed spread throughout the world. Historical photos and pictures are interesting:

Description and standard of the Akita Inu breed

The Akita Inu is a large breed of dog with a powerful, elegant build. It belongs to the Spitz group based on the FCI’s classification. Akita Inus can grow to a height of 65 cm, while bitches can only reach 61 cm. Boys have an almost square build, while girls are more elongated and slender. Male Akita Inus weigh 45–59 kg, while females weigh 32–45 kg.

Head

The head is of medium size, corresponds to the proportions of the body, elongated, reminiscent of a fox. The hair on the muzzle is short, a white pattern in the form of a mask is required. The forehead is wide and flat, the stop is clearly defined, the nose pointed. The jaws are strong, the bite is scissor-shaped, the lips fit tightly. The nose is black. The ears are small, triangular, pointed at the ends. Set wide apart, erect in an adult dog. Do not rise immediately, in puppies they are lowered. The ears are mobile, when calm they are directed slightly to the sides. The eyes are dark, located close to the nose. The outer corners are slightly raised. The fur on the muzzle is fluffy, which makes the eyes seem small. But the look is penetrating and intelligent.

Body type

The physique is robust and muscular. There is a small collar and a short neck. Skin creases and sagging are possible. The belly is neatly tucked in, and the chest is broad and slightly concave. The loin is broad and the back is short and straight. The tail is plump and thick. Usually thrown over the back or curled into a ring. Never fully straightens out.

Limbs

The limbs appear comparatively short to the body. They are parallel, erect, and powerful. The back legs are closely spaced, while the front legs are widely apart. The dog has a long jump range. Moves swiftly and with ease. Paws have closed, extremely powerful toes. As a result, Akitas swims quite well. The images display the characteristics of appearance:

Features of the coat

The coat is very thick, straight, and only 5 cm long. Dogs therefore feel more at ease in colder climates. The guard hair is two layers of hard hair over a soft, fluffy undercoat. The hind legs, tail, and withers are longer.

Akita Inu colors

Breeders of Japanese Akita Inus are partial to a single color of these canines. They ought to be fawn-red with patches of white. The color is not uniform; the top layer is red in the dark areas. Everything about the undercoat is white. Additionally, the inside of the tail as well as the legs, nose, stomach, chest, and neck should all have white markings. A few more colors are recognized by the standard:

• sesame or black-brown with white markings;
• pure white Akita Inu, red hair on the back is allowed;
• brindle – on the standard color there are black stripes, it is rare;
• spotted;
• black.

Images of Akitas’ primary colors:

Longhaired

There are occasionally long-haired Akita Inus. Such people are not taken into account by the standard, which views long hair as a drawback. However, this gene is recessive, meaning that a puppy with long hair can have regular parents. Scholars surmise that its appearance resulted from the use of Sakhalin Laikas in the effort to revive the breed.

Characteristics of American Akita Inu

This breed’s variation first emerged following World War II. Puppies brought by the military were used to breed American Akitas in the United States. They selected larger, stronger examples of the breed. They were crossed with mastiffs and German shepherds. Therefore, dogs were obtained that were slightly different from purebred Japanese Akitas. They started going by the names American Akita or "large Japanese dogs." Since their formal separation in 1999, these two breeds have evolved into distinct entities. Japan does not accept American Akitas. They differ from ancient dogs in the following ways, despite sharing a common ancestor:

• a larger, bear-like skull;
• height up to 70 cm, weight 65 kg;
• black and white, piebald, spotted, brindle colors are allowed;
• the coat can be long;
• they are more docile by nature.

The images illustrate how American and Japanese Akitas differ from one another:

An American Akita Inu’s picture

A picture of a long-haired American Akita Inu

An American Akita Inu’s picture

Description of the character of an Akita Inu

The dog breed Akita Inu is a Spitz. Similar to every member of these breeds, it possesses strength, bravery, and temperament. Its forefathers hunted big game and kept out bandits from their home. The nature of contemporary pets has been impacted by this. They possess the following attributes:

• balance;
• temperament;
• inquisitiveness;
• good nature;
• restraint;
• independence;
• courage;
• endurance;
• patience;
• love of freedom.

Loyalty and devotion to the owner are the primary characteristics of the Akita. She struggles with being apart from him and always wants to be close to him. That Hachiko was designated as a symbol of this attribute is not insignificant. Dogs never waver and are always willing to defend their owners, even when they are hurt, hungry, or experiencing other hardships. Akita remembers things well. They recall every detail, including remarks made and tone of voice.

These pets are touchy and vulnerable. They do not tolerate criticism or raising of the voice, a serious punishment for the dog is the cessation of communication. But despite this, the dog is not capable of mischief, will not take revenge or misbehave at home, is not prone to aggression. But these formidable-looking dogs are affectionate and gentle with family members. Very emotional, although they may not show emotions outwardly, controlling them. Able to sense a person"s mood and support him in difficult times, will listen, share joy. The independence and intelligence of the dog is often mistaken for cunning and stubbornness. But if you find a common language with your pet, such behavior will not cause any inconvenience.

Attitude to children

Akita adores kids and goes out of her way to keep them safe. It’s not a coincidence that breed representatives work as nannies in Japan. The animal will make an ongoing effort to play and spend time with the child. Images depict the unusual ways in which these dogs communicate with humans:

Akita Inu and child in a photo

Service qualities

The second most common breed of dogs used in canistherapy is the Akita Inu. They are able to work in rehab facilities and hospitals. They benefit children with mental health issues and aid in the recovery of the ill. This is because these dogs are peaceful, well-balanced empaths. This dog makes an excellent guard. He is cautious and mistrustful of everyone who is new to him. may display hostility. but even when watching over the house, seldom utters a sound. Rather than barking at an intruder, Akita is more likely to hold him until the owner arrives. Representatives of this breed are also useful for search and rescue operations, as well as hunting.

Education and training

This dog has many benefits, but training it is a very challenging task. Only those who possess leadership qualities are obeyed by Akita. The dog will attempt to dominate if he is unable to obtain authority. selects a single owner, views the other members of the family as friends, and interacts with them equally. It’s critical to be firm and persistent when teaching, but you also need to treat the dog with respect. It is not acceptable to physically discipline a pet, and the owner shouldn’t make them fearful.

Playful training methods work best, and success should always be rewarded. You should be aware that Akita is incredibly intelligent and recalls instructions fast. You ought to have patience and know when to give up on training and focus solely on the game. The correct motivation and a range of impressions are crucial for this dog. You must immediately put an end to undesirable behavior.

It is not acceptable to let your pet sleep on the bed or hide food or toys from the owner. An Akita must be trained from an early age to respond appropriately to other people, loud streets, and moving vehicles. Your pet won’t have any behavioral issues if you begin training and socializing it on time. This needs to be carried out from the puppy’s birth onwards.

An important period from 4 to 8 months, during this time the dog chooses its owner. After the first two years of education, it will be very difficult to alter the pet’s behavior or personality in any way. You can teach Akita agility, freestyle, acrobatic tricks, and even use it for joint sports like hunting if you take the proper approach. Akita raising made interesting in this video:

Video: Akita Inus: characteristics of ownership and upbringing, sentiments toward kids and outsiders

Features of keeping and caring for an Akita Inu

This breed is suitable for keeping in the yard of a private house. You can only put the dog on a chain or lock it in an aviary. Akitas do not tolerate closed spaces and loneliness. Many dog ​​handlers believe that it is better to keep them at home so that they constantly feel the owner"s attention. But the room should not be too warm, otherwise the fur will shed constantly. This dog is easy to adapt, gets along well even in a city apartment. The main thing is to provide sufficient physical activity. You need to walk with an Akita for a long time, at least 2 times for an hour. Be sure to allow it to run and play. It is recommended to change walking routes to provide your pet with new impressions. In the city, it is better to walk on a leash, it can show aggression towards unfamiliar dogs or run after a bird.

Hygiene procedures

It’s important to start your pet off with basic hygiene training at a young age. These dogs require little maintenance; they enjoy bathing, and combing their hair is a simple task. However, the dog must act composedly while undergoing these procedures.

• You need to comb it every week. When the pet sheds, then every day. Shedding occurs twice a year. But the dog may shed more often if it is fed incorrectly or kept in high temperatures.
• It is advisable to bathe your pet 2-3 times a year. If you do this more often, the natural lubrication of the skin will be washed off.
• To clean teeth and prevent tartar, give chewing bones. Or brush teeth with a special paste 2-3 times a month.
• Check the ears and eyes of the pet at least once a week. If necessary, wash with veterinary lotions.
• If the claws are not worn down, they need to be trimmed monthly. Otherwise, they will interfere with the pet"s walking.

What to feed the Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is used to a specific diet because of the quirks of its origin. Since ancient times, fish, rice, seaweed, and seafood have been fed to people in Japan. As a result, certain items that are safe for dogs of other breeds can trigger allergies in Akita Inus. You are unable to provide them with:

• poultry;
• beef;
• oatmeal, corn and wheat;
• milk.

Protein-rich foods should be the mainstay of the diet when using natural feeding. This is venison, lamb, rabbit, and horse meat. Try to feed the dog vegetables, eggs, fish, shellfish, and offal. Low-fat dairy products, buckwheat and rice porridge, cheese, apples are useful. Adding dried seaweed to food is a smart idea. This will assist in resupplying the iodine required. Additionally, vitamin supplements are required; these are administered following a veterinary consultation. You can feed your Akita Inu dry food. It must be of the highest caliber—premium or super-premium. The optimal diet for this breed is:

• Acana;
• Belcando;
• Canide;
• BioMill;
• AlmoNatureHolistic.

It’s crucial to keep an eye on how much food you feed your pet. A mature dog requires 600 g daily. Give him food both in the morning and at night. Since Akitas are prone to obesity, bloating, and intestinal volvulus, overfeeding is not advised.

Health status

This dog will not become ill during its entire life if you provide it with normal circumstances. Akita is in excellent health. Rare are congenital diseases:

• joint dysplasia;
• inversion of the eyelid, blindness;
• gastric torsion;
• thyroid dysfunction.

However these dogs frequently sustain injuries, particularly as puppies. They enjoy jumping, so they don’t fear heights. In order to keep your pet healthy, keep it safe from harm and prevent access to the balcony. In addition, it’s critical to treat it for parasites and administer all recommended vaccinations. Additionally, routine veterinary exams will help you identify health issues early on.

How to buy an Akita Inu puppy

Representatives of this breed can cost anywhere between thirty and eighty thousand rubles in Russia. It is contingent upon the breeder and the puppy’s class. Moscow is home to the greatest kennels in the Russian Federation. It is best to get in touch with them if you need a purebred Akita Inu puppy because their dogs are the priciest. Purchasing puppies at the market or from hands in an attempt to save money is not advised. In the best scenario, you will receive a mongrel, or a dog that is not like other dogs. However, dogs with genetic diseases are not unheard of.

Moreover, adult dogs are not available. Two years later, Akita still finds it difficult to adjust to new circumstances. It can be challenging to tell whether a puppy exhibits the traits of the breed. However, from birth, he ought to have a particular eye shape, a proper bite, and dark lips and nose pigmentation. The eyes need to be dark. Purchasing a dog with a pedigree is preferable. However, you should still consider the following indicators of a healthy puppy when making your decision:

• the nose is cold and wet;
• the coat is without bald spots, no dandruff or bald spots;
• there is no unpleasant odor from the body;
• the eyes and ears are clean, without discharge;
• the baby is active, cheerful, well-fed;
• does not show cowardice or aggression, is inquisitive.

The pictures depict what puppies ought to look like:

Pictures of young Akita Inus

An image of a puppy Akita Inu

Pictures of young Akita Inus

The following features of the breed are explained in detail in the video:

Video: An Overview of the Akita Inu Dog Breed

Conclusion

Many dog breeders have fallen in love with Akita Inus. This is a good-natured, happy, and devoted pet that enjoys spending time with kids and is willing to go everywhere with its owner. Perfect for those who are active and will give it enough attention to walk for extended periods of time. For those who are inexperienced or require a quiet companion, getting an Akita is not advised. Breeders are aware of situations in which a new owner returned a wayward dog because they were unable to handle it.

Reviews of the Akita Inu breed

Feature	Details
Origin	Japan
Size	Large
Weight	70-130 lbs
Temperament	Loyal, courageous, independent
Coat	Thick, double-coated
Colors	Brindle, white, pinto
Exercise	Needs daily activity
Training	Requires consistent training

Akita Inus are incredibly amazing dogs that are well-known for their bravery and devotion. They are magnificent companions and loyal protectors because they possess a special combination of strength and beauty. If you’re thinking about bringing one into your house, be ready for a close relationship that will grow over time.

Patience and consistency are necessary when training an Akita. Despite their intelligence, these dogs can be a little stubborn. The keys are positive reinforcement and early socialization. You can raise your Akita to be a well-mannered adult who fits in with your family if you take the correct attitude to training.

Akitas do best in settings that allow them to be active and involved. They must exercise frequently to stay happy and healthy. Providing your Akita with stimulating activities, such as leisurely walks, yard play, or enjoyable pursuits, can help ward off boredom and destructive tendencies.

Akitas are very affectionate with their family, but they can be distant from strangers. They frequently develop close bonds with humans, offering security as well as company. They are excellent watchdogs because of their vigilant nature; they will defend their loved ones at any time.

In conclusion, Akita Inus make excellent pets for the right owner. They need affectionate surroundings, dedication, and training. You’ll find a faithful friend who will support you no matter what if you can provide that.

The majestic and devoted Akita Inu breed is well-known for its robust nature and close relationship with its family. These Japanese dogs have a rich history as symbols of bravery and loyalty in addition to their striking appearance with their thick fur and noble stance. This post will discuss the characteristics that set Akitas apart, their temperament, what kind of care they require, and how to develop a caring bond with these amazing friends.

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