According to the American Kennel Club (AKC,) the Akita is one of seven breeds of dogs that are considered a national monument in Japan. These large, powerful dogs can be great family pets, though potential owners should thoroughly research every aspect of the Akita to ensure that this breed is the right breed for their family.
Breed History: The Akita
The Akita gets its name from the Akita region in Japan. This dog, the national dog of Japan, has changed relatively little in the many centuries it has been around.
Interestingly, the first Akita ever brought to American soil was by Helen Keller in the later part of the 1930s. Helen Keller received the dog as a gift during her visit to Akita Prefecture. The Japanese government gave her a second Akita as a gift after the first dog died from Canine Distemper.
Today, there are two types of Akitas: the original Japanese Akita Inu and the American standard Akita. Though the rest of the world designates these as two separate breeds, in America and in Canada, these two breeds are considered one breed with differences in type.
The Akita: Grooming and Appearance
Akitas require a large amount of regular grooming. Their fur coat is stiff and coarse, requiring regular brushing with a firm bristle brush. Akitas shed heavily twice yearly, so grooming regularly helps to keep things in check. Baths should be minimal as they can remove the natural waterproofing of the Akita’s coat.
Owners can expect a male Akita to reach a height of up to 28 inches with an accompanying weight of up to 120 pounds. Female Akitas are smaller, reaching up to 26 inches in height and weighing up to 110 pounds.
The Temperament of an Akita
Akitas are known as very affectionate dogs that are not only intelligent, but also fearless and courageous. That being said, these dogs do require an owner to be the pack leader, as these dogs will take over if they feel they need to be the leader of the pack (family.)
Unfortunately, these dogs need to be properly trained or they can become dangerous, especially to younger children. Akitas should be well-socialized and taught that all humans, no matter what their age, are above him in terms of pack ranking. Otherwise, Akitas can become aggressive toward outsiders who are not part of their immediate family. However, this can be true of any dog breed.
The Akita: Potential Health Issues
The Akita requires moderate exercise such as a long daily walk, so apartment living could work for this dog as long as it receives its exercise. With regular exercise, proper nutrition and attention, these dogs can live up to twelve years or more.
Like several purebred dogs, the Akita is prone to several different health issues including hip dysplasia and knee or patella related issues. Autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune thyroiditis and Pemphigus can also affect the Akita, along with other potential health issues such as hypothyroidism. Some Akita lines may suffer from various eye diseases including entropion and progressive retinal atrophy.
Jennifer Gittins - Jenne is a 23 year old writer, photographer and musician. She intends to go back to school when the economy picks up for a degree in ...
Join the Conversation