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Akita Information
Description
The largest of the Japanese Spitz-type breeds, the Akita, is a powerful, well-proportioned, solid and distinctive looking dog. Strong and muscular with a flat, heavy head and strong, short muzzle. The Akita is slightly longer than he is tall with a level back and deep chest. The head is broad and shaped like a blunt triangle. The small, erect ears are carried forward and in line with the neck. The small, almond shaped eyes are dark brown. The nose is generally black, the lips are black and the tongue is pink. The teeth should meet in a scissors, or level bite (scissors is preferred). The tail is carried up and curled over the back. The Akita has webbed, cat-like feet - which makes it a fine swimmer. The double coat is composed of a harsh, waterproof outer coat insulated with a thick, soft undercoat.
Temperament
The Akita is docile, but sometimes spontaneous, careful and very affectionate with its family. Also very Intelligent, courageous and fearless. It is very strong minded and needs firm training and socialisation as a puppy. The Akita is extremely faithful and thrives on companionship. The Akita, if not properly socialised may become aggressive to other dogs and animals and should therefore never be allowed to run off its lead. All dogs should be supervised with other household pets and children. Although the breed may tolerate and be good with children from his own family, he may not accept other children as well. Children must be taught to treat these dogs with kindness. With firm training and socialisation the Akita makes a loving and loyal family pet. Obedience training requires patience, as these dogs tend to get bored quickly. It vocalizes with many interesting sounds, but it is not an excessive barker.
Height and Weight
Height: Dogs 26-28 inches (66-71 cm.) Bitches 24-26 inches (61-66 cm.)
Weight: Dogs 75-120 pounds (34-54 kg.) Bitches 75-110 pounds (34-50 kg.)
Health Problems
Akitas like most large breeds are prone to hip dysplasia. Also thyroid both hypothyroid and autoimmune thyroiditis. immune diseases like VKH and Pemphigus, skin problems like SA and eyes (PRA, Micro, entropion) patella and other problems with the knee.
Living Conditions
The Akita will do fine in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is moderately active indoors and will do best with a large yard. The Akita prefers to live outside as the thickness of his double coat keeps him warm in cooler conditions.
Exercise
The Akita needs moderate but regular exercise to stay in shape. It should be taken for long walks when reached age of full growth. (around one year.) Puppies are best not over exercised, regular play is adequate for a puppy as they are still growing and are not fully matured.
Life Expectancy
Around 10-12 years
Grooming
The coarse, stiff, short-haired coat needs significant grooming. Brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary as bathing removes the natural waterproofing of the coat. This breed sheds heavily around twice a year.
Origin
The Akita Inu is native to the island of Honshu in the region of Akita in Japan, where it has remained unchanged for centuries. Today, the Akita is considered the national dog of Japan and is designated as a Natural Monument. The breed has had many uses, first as an Imperial guard dog, then as a fighting dog, hunter of deer and bear, for sledding, and for police, army and guard work. The Akita has keen hunting abilities and can even hunt in deep snow. He has a soft mouth, so he is suitable for waterfowl retrieval. In Japan, small statues of the Akita are often sent to ill people to express a wish for their speedy recovery and to parents of newborn children to symbolize health. The first Akita was brought to the USA by Helen Keller. American servicemen also brought Akitas to the US after World War II.
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