Akita

A symbol of loyalty and faithfulness, owners of impeccable manners, affectionate and patient. Akita is a very versatile Japanese dog. If treated well, it is ready to follow its owner to the end of the world. The main helper in the fight against stress brings tranquility and relaxation in the family’s active life.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The Akita Inu, a legendary pet of Japan, is rightly considered one of the oldest dog breeds on the planet. In ancient times, the Japanese believed that the Akita brought good luck to its owners. To offend Japan’s national treasure was tantamount to committing a brutal crime against the state.

The pets get their name after the city of Akita in northern Japan, where they first appeared. At one time, they were used for hunting deer, bears, and wild boars. They proved to be excellent watchdogs, for which they were honored to serve at the imperial court. Such a career leap elevated them to elite breeds’ rank and made them famous worldwide. The Akita Inu peaked in popularity and gained the love of millions after the release of the television movie Hachiko, based on true events. Nowadays, the Akita Inu is highly respected worldwide; many people are honored to own such a loyal and faithful dog.

Appearance

The Akita is the owner of a memorable appearance. A good-natured smile never leaves their muzzle, thanks to their specific anatomy. The eyes are expressive and slanted, and the tail is curled into a ring, as it should be. Dogs-smilers – that’s how else you can call Akita Inu.

The physique is quite large but correct and graceful. Powerful paws, strong and broad chest, well-developed musculature. The ears are standing triangle-shaped, with a black nose and dark brown eyes. The coat of the Akita breed is thick with an undercoat. Some dogs are red with a white, tiger with white and pure white.

Character

A symbol of loyalty and faithfulness, owners of impeccable manners, affectionate and patient. Akita is a very versatile Japanese dog. If treated well, it is ready to follow its owner to the end of the world. The main helper in the fight against stress brings tranquility and relaxation in the family’s active life. Akita Inu are those purebreds; neat appearance and pleasant smell surround them in all conditions. When it comes to children, they are patient, affectionate, and can defend against any potential enemy.

Care

Akita Inu is suitable for dog owners with experience; not everyone can cope with its temperament and can ruin the dog. Suitable for both inside and outside, in an aviary, but daily walks are vital. It would help if you did not bathe the dog often; cynologists recommend not more than once every three months.

Thick coats with undercoats need thorough combing twice a week. With heavy shedding twice a year, we must remember to help the dog eliminate hair dying actively. Teeth brushing, eye washing, and claw trimming are rituals that should not be neglected in these entities’ care.

Training

The most naughty breed in the world! Many have nicknamed the Akita for its inner independence and desire to do things their way. Early socialization for Japanese puppies is vital; they need to understand what is dangerous and what is not to distinguish between guests and uninvited strangers at an early age.

The Akita Inu picks up new commands just on the fly and will begin to die of boredom if you repeat the same thing long and hard. Proper motivation, patience, consistency, and rigor are the keys to success in training Japanese Akita dogs.

Common Diseases

Animals with good health, strength, and stamina, Akita Inu live on average about 13 years. Like, true samurai, they have a robust immune system but are not without health problems and are prone to hereditary diseases:

• musculoskeletal problems;
• stomach congestion;
• eye diseases;
• thyroid disease;
• immune system disorders.

An active lifestyle and regular visits to the veterinarian are the keys to Akita Inu’s health.

Nutrition

Akitas are very picky eaters. The habit of eating light and healthy food has been passed down from their ancestors, who did not recognize dyes or preservatives. These lifestyle choices and proper eating habits help dogs stay in great shape at all times. Be careful; the Akita Inu is allergic! Allergies can occur to absolutely harmless products: corn, wheat, oats.