Akita Dog Breed Caring and Family, Social Life, Physical Traits, Diet Information

The Akita is a large, powerful, brave dog breed with an intimidating and noble presence. They originated from feudal Japan, where they guarded nobility and royalty. Akitas also tracked and hunted deer, black bears, and wild boars without backing down because they do not frighten easily. Likewise, Akitas will protect and guard their families fearlessly. With proper socialization and training, Akita will be respectful, affectionate, loyal to their human families, and even amusing sometimes.

The Akita breed is a beloved working dog breed that the Japanese government designated in 1930 as a “natural monument.” The Akita was initially used as a hunting and fighting dog and is now used for police and guard work, while also suitable for family pets.

What are the Breed Traits and Characteristics of Akitas?

Some Spitz dogs, such as the Akita, are wolf-like with dense, thick fur, pointed ears, and muzzles. However, Akitas also have other fox-like features, including the face and a thick, furry tail curving over its back. The furry Akitas have webbed toes to ease walking on the snow.

The first Akita to arrive on American soil was one brought to the United States by Helen Keller in the mid-1930s. Keller was gifted an Akita puppy while touring Japan. In the 1940s, American GIs brought Akita Inu dogs home upon their return after the occupation of Japan. Japanese Akitas were the first specimens of this Spitz breed to come to the US. Their arrival gave rise to a separate mix named the American Akita, sporting a more expansive range of colors than the Akita Inu.

What are the Physical Traits of the Akita?

The Akita is a heavy-boned, burly dog with a thick double fur coat. This breed radiated alertness with dark shining eyes and erect ears. Akitas are intelligent, independent thinkers, and they thrive on human companionship.

Akitas don’t need vigorous exercise, a casual jog or long daily walk is sufficient. 

What are the Social Traits of Akitas?

Before choosing an Akita to take home, it is good to learn more about the breed’s social traits. Unlike most other breeds, Akita males and females differ significantly, and the females are smaller than males, weighing much less than their male counterparts. Furthermore, males typically bond quickly with all the human family members, and female Akitas tend to single out one person as a favorite. 

In appearance, Akita girls are slimmer and less muscular than the boys. Training young Akita females is easier, but they are more demanding because they are needy and crave affection all the time. Despite the males being more aggressive and more likely to show their teeth, they are also more playful.

Now that the differences between male and female Akitas are apparent, below is a list of other social traits of the furry Akita breed puppies to help you make an informed decision about adopting an Akita dog. Too many of these fantastic dogs are left at rescue centers because the owners were unprepared for what they got when they adopted an Akita dog. More social traits of the Akita breed dogs are listed below. 

When well trained and socialized, Akita Dogs are calm and loving companions who are vigilant protectors of their families. 

What are the Personality Traits of Akita Dogs?

The Akita is profoundly loyal, dignified, and courageous. The Akita is usually not friendly toward other dogs, strangers, and small children. These could be resolved by the early socialization of furry friends with children, people, and other dogs. If dogs attack small children, it is often the parents who fail to teach children to respect dogs. However, it is not all bad; Akitas can also be silly, fun-loving, and very affectionate with their human families. 

They crave human attention and cuddles. Akita dogs are independent in their thinking, and nothing will stop them from protecting their humans. This dog is happy to be the only dog in the family. It can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially dogs of the same gender.

The Akita is often aloof around strangers but very territorial about its home, making this breed an excellent watchdog. This dog is intelligent and can become easily bored with repetitive training, and the breed thrives on challenges and loves being given a job to do. 

What is the General Information about Akitas? 

The Akita is a spitz breed that originated from Japan. Their ownership was restricted to the Imperial Family and the ruling aristocracy; caring and feeding of the Akita were detailed in elaborate ceremonies, and each dog had a unique leash to denote the Akita’s rank and its owner’s standing. Personal servants took care of the Akita Inu 24/7. A single Inu, a Japanese word for dog, was brought to America in the 1930s, and several more came home with GIs who returned from service in Japan in the 1940s.

Akita Inus were initially bred for hunting big game in packs and protecting their owners and their properties. The American Akita did not maintain the pack mentality, so they do not tolerate other dogs. The protection and guarding skills are as strong as ever, though.

What is the Average Lifespan of the Akita?

The average lifespan of the Akita Dog is 11 to 14 years. Based on a study by the Department of Ethology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary, an online questionnaire was utilized to examine the link between the age and health of the dog, and owner and dog demographics in a cross-sectional Hungarian sample. Analysis of the responses indicated that: 

• Pure breed dogs like Akitas suffer from health problems at a younger age and may die earlier than mixed breeds.
• The oldest dog group (>12 years) consisted of fewer pure breeds than mixed breeds.
• On average, the mixed breeds sample was older than the pure breed sample.
• Pure breed old dogs were classified more frequently as unhealthy.
• Pure breed old dogs less often had a “normal” body condition score.
• Pure breed old dogs more often receive medication and supplements.
• Pure breed old dogs were more often male, neutered, suffered health problems (such as sensory, joint, and or tooth problems)
• Pure breed old dogs received less activity/interaction/training with the owner and were more likely to have experienced one or more traumatic events. 

Below is a list of average lifespans of 10 Spitz dog breeds per the World Life Expectancy website.

How to Feed an Akita?

Akitas are reasonably active, and they need a diet with high-quality proteins. Deciding how many cups of food to feed your Akita will require careful consideration of various aspects. 

Your canine companion’s size, life stage, overall health, metabolism, activity level, any allergies, or food sensitivities will play a role in your ultimate choice of food and daily caloric intake of your Akita. Young Akitas and growing puppies need different nutrients than adult dogs, and older, less active dogs need yet another combination of nutrients and fewer calories. The same applies to neutered and spayed dogs. 

Because Akitas are not so keen on running and their tendency to lie around, owners should monitor their furry friends’ diet to prevent weight gain. Depending on the formulation of the food provided, Akitas need 3 to 5 cups of food per day, fed in two meals to avoid bloat or gastric dilation volvulus.

To prevent this condition, avoid feeding your dog vast quantities of food and avoid strenuous exercise or large amounts of water within an hour after eating a meal. Talk to your veterinarian about the optimal diet and quantity of food for your Akita. Below are suggestions of high-quality food for Akita puppies, adults, and seniors. 

• Food for Akita Puppies

○ Fresh Food Option: The Farmer’s Dog is a service that delivers balanced, freshly made pet food with simple recipes, guided by science and driven by love. They discovered that the key to our dogs’ well-being was real food in their bowls, not simply pictures of it on a bag. Fresh food designed for the needs of each dog is freshly delivered to the home with the hungry Akita puppy. 

○ Dry Kibble Option: Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Salmon & Brown Rice Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food is crafted using single-source protein and limited carbohydrate sources for a complete and balanced blend. It’s perfect for Akita puppies with food sensitivities or pet parents who want to minimize the number of ingredients their pets are exposed to.

• Food for Adult Akitas

○ Fresh Food Option: Nom Nom veterinary nutritionists offer four recipes, including beef, pork, chicken, and duck, combined with real, fresh foods, good enough for people to eat, and developed for your Adult Akita’s unique needs.

○ Dry Kibble Option: Wellness Complete Health dog food like Wellness Complete Health Adult Lamb & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food is naturally formulated with antioxidant-rich ingredients to support strong immunity. Balanced nutrients in the recipes promote optimal energy, and guaranteed levels of fatty acids support the skin and coat health of your Akita.

• Food for Akita Seniors

○ Fresh Food Option: Ollie’s 100% human-grade recipes step up to the plate with real, high-quality ingredients for happier, healthier mealtimes for your senior Akita.

○ Dried Kibble Option: Nature’s Recipe Mature Dry Dog Food Lamb & Rice Recipe. As your adult dog ages and settles into senior life, his nutritional needs will change. Recipes for aged Akitas are loaded with calcium for bone support, quality protein and fatty acids for brain function, and fiber for optimal digestion.

What are the Nutritional Needs of the Akita?

The nutritional needs of an Akita include high levels of specific nutrients. The essential nutrients for Akitas are listed below:

• Protein: Akitas need natural animal protein, valuable for the amino acids they contain that are essential for Akita’s health. Equally important is the fact that protein builds lean muscles and provides energy.
• Fat: Animal protein also provides adequate fat, an additional energy source that boosts the Akita’s metabolism. However, there is a fine line between enough and too much. Excessive fat levels in the dog’s daily diet could result in weight gain and, ultimately, obesity. Most importantly, adult and senior Akitas need lower fat levels than puppies.
• Carbohydrates: Although carbs are not essential nutrients, they are crucial energy sources. Giving the Akita sufficient carbs will provide energy, encouraging the body’s protein absorption to build lean muscle. Beware, though, too much carbohydrate can lead to obesity.
• DHA: DHA is one of the components of omega-3 fatty acids that promotes proper eye and brain development in Akita puppies. DHA develops cognitive development in puppies and slows cognitive decline in older dogs. Furthermore, omega fatty acids benefit aging dogs by treating chronic kidney disease and canine arthritis. Omega-3 oils improve the coat health of Akitas.
• Micronutrient: Taurine, a micronutrient that aids heart health, and other valuable micronutrients for promoting strong joints in Akita Dogs, are chondroitin and glucosamine.
• Minerals: Beneficial minerals for an Akita’s growth include a healthy balance of phosphorus and calcium. Pre- and probiotics and chelated minerals provide additional health to the diets of Akitas.

How Much Should an Akita Puppy Eat?

Akita puppies will grow rapidly and need a high-quality, low-calorie diet, so they don’t grow too fast. A young Akita should be fed premium puppy food, but for how long? Some breeders will use puppy food for the first 18 months and then switch to good adult food; others recommend feeding puppy food until your Akita reaches about 90 percent of his adult size. Akita puppies will grow rapidly and need a high-quality, low-calorie diet so they don’t grow too fast. 

Keeping the pup reasonably lean is best to prevent overstressing of developing joints and bones. The way a puppy is fed plays a crucial role in Akita’s overall health throughout its life. Some considerations are listed below.

• A puppy may gain 80 to 100 pounds between 8 weeks and one year of age and should feed accordingly.
• A young pup needs to be fed small amounts of food at least two to three times a day.
• Akita puppies should be fed according to a schedule. Getting the puppy accustomed to meals at specific times is better than leaving food out to allow feeding throughout the day.
• Akitas with medical conditions like hypoglycemia or low blood sugar are the exceptions because they need to nibble bits of food throughout the day.
• No growth supplements should be fed to puppies, as this can cause nutritional imbalances and skeletal or joint problems.
• Some breeders feel that dog parents should put giant breed puppies on adult food as soon as possible. More recent studies show that a good premium puppy food will have the necessary nutrients needed for a puppy.
• Adult kibble can cause vitamin and mineral imbalances when fed to rapidly growing puppies.
• Akita puppies need slow, sustained growth to help prevent orthopedic problems, such as hip dysplasia.
• Whatever diet you choose shouldn’t overemphasize protein, fat, and calorie levels.
• Never feed your puppy from the table. It only encourages begging. Everyone in the family must follow this rule

Akita puppies should eat a healthy, balanced diet to provide the energy they need every day. Akitas tend to become overweight as they get older, so it’s essential to monitor how much food they consume when they are puppies.

What are the health concerns for Akita Dogs?

Akitas are reasonably healthy, but 6-monthly veterinarian checkups remain essential because Akitas are predisposed to several health problems, some of which are listed below.

• Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Akita is no exception. It could be food allergies, contact allergies, or airborne allergies.
• Hip dysplasia is a deformation that occurs and develops as Akita puppies grow. It is caused by loose joints that prevent the ball part of one bone from sliding smoothly in the socket of the other joint bone. Instead, it grinds and rubs in the joint, causing painful wear and tear damage as the Akita becomes heavier. Although it could start in puppyhood, it usually only becomes evident in adult dogs, making 6-monthly medical examinations crucial.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, also called PRA, is an inherited progressive disease of the retina that leads to blindness in affected Akitas.
• Sebaceous adenitis (SA) is a serious problem in Akitas. This genetic condition is difficult to diagnose and often mistaken for hypothyroidism, allergies, or other conditions. When a dog has SA, the sebaceous glands in the skin become inflamed (for unknown reasons) and are eventually destroyed. These glands typically produce sebum, a fatty secretion that helps prevent the skin from drying out.
• Gastric Dilation Volvulus or Bloat is a condition that occurs when the dog’s belly fills with air, causing the stomach to twist on its axis. As a result, blood flow to the stomach and other vital organs is cut off, and the Akita could die as a result.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease is a platelet disorder affecting blood clotting in Akitas.

Buying a puppy from a reputable breeder is recommended. You will typically get the health clearances listed below to confirm the health of your new Akita puppy:

• Hip and elbow evaluation clearance
• Hypothyroidism
• Von Willebrand’s disease
• Thrombopathia
• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• PRA Optigen DNA Test
• Certification from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) certifying that eyes are normal

Are Akitas Hypoallergenic?

No Akitas are not hypoallergenic. For a dog to be hypoallergenic does not mean they don’t shed, and it is not only dog hair that causes allergic reactions in humans.

 However, what hypoallergenic means is that low shedders spread fewer allergens than most dogs. When it comes to the Akita breed, they shed moderately and could cause reactions in people sensitive to the allergens listed below.

• Dander: Akitas shed dead skin cells that could affect sensitive people.
• Drool: Akitas hold themselves with a certain amount of pride and poise. Their facial structure and tight lips prevent most drooling.
• Hair: The thick, coarse hair of Akitas is only excessively shed twice a year when their bodies prepare for the cold of winter and the heat of summer. At those times, sensitive people are more likely to be affected.

What is the Shedding Level of an Akita?

The shedding level of the Akita is usually low. However, shedding seasons or seasonal shedding can be excessive. As their bodies prepare for the new season, old hairs fall out, and new hairs grow to make the coat thicker for winter or thinner for summer. For one to two weeks at those times, your Akita’s hair will come out in clumps, and daily brushing is essential. During the rest of the year, weekly brushing should be sufficient.

How to train an Akita?

Many people find that Akitas are one of the more difficult dogs to train. However, if you start obedience classes early and remain strict and supportive while keeping the dog’s interest, Akitas can be as well trained as most other breeds.

Training Akitas is an ongoing process and not something scheduled for an hour every day or once a week. Puppy training can begin early, preparing for proper training when their attention span is longer. As with all dogs, consistency is vital, and the earlier you start training them, the better. Puppy kindergarten classes are always a good idea. Because Akitas are so intelligent, they are considered relatively easy to train.

Is an Akita a Good Guard Dog?

Yes, Akitas are gifted guard dogs, recognized for those skills as far back as feudal Japan when Akitas were bred to guard nobility and royalty. Akitas are one of the most loyal dog breeds. Akitas are one of the most courageous and alert dog breeds, and they are naturally suspicious of strangers. Akitas will watch over you and your family at all times, prioritizing that task over all else, without training. However, while their guarding skills are inherited, obedience and socialization need training.

Where to Buy, Adopt, or Rescue Akitas?

Our lives have become very much “online,” and one field that has almost entirely become internet-based is finding puppies. Whether you’re planning to get your new best friend from a breeder, a pet store, or another source, don’t forget that adage “let the buyer beware.” Disreputable breeders and facilities that deal with puppy mills can be hard to distinguish from reliable operations.

Many reputable breeders have websites, but the trick is to separate good from the bad. So how can you tell reliable and reputable breeders and rescue clubs or centers from unreliable ones? Red flags include those who have multiple litters available at a time, or litters of various breeds, giving the buyer a choice of any breed. Another red flag is the option to pay online by credit card. Please don’t fall for online “breeders” who offer discount coupons for buyers who take more than one puppy.

The cost of an Akita puppy is relatively high, with the average price running anywhere between $700 and $1,600. Purebred Akita puppies from parents who’ve won dog competitions can cost as much as $4,000. Akita puppies should always be purchased from reputable breeders and fully vetted and microchipped. It’s never a good idea to buy an Akita without first seeing the puppy in person, along with its mother. Be sure the dogs are well cared for and that the puppies are social and curious.

Adopting a rescue puppy could be less costly, but similar care is necessary. The best way to find a healthy Akita dog at a rescue facility is to reach out to registered kennel clubs and rescue facilities. They will put potential new puppy parents in touch with facilities where they would be sure to find healthy Akita pups or save an older Akita’s life. Entities to contact are listed below.

What is the Akita Dog Breed’s History?

The Akita is named for the province of Akita in northern Japan, where they are believed to have originated. The Akita’s known existence goes back to the 1600s when the breed guarded Japanese royalty and was used for hunting fowl and big game, including bears.

The Akita first made his way to the U.S. in 1937, when Helen Keller brought a gifted pup named Kami home after a tour through Japan. The Akita remained a rarity in the U.S. until after World War II when American soldiers returning from service in Japan brought them along. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1972.

What is the Average Maintenance Cost for Akita?

The cost to adopt an Akita from a rescue center is around $200 to cover caring for the dog before adoption. In contrast, buying an Akita from a breeder can be significantly more expensive.

Purchasing an Akita puppy from a registered breeder could cost $800 to $2,000. However, prices vary according to the breeder’s location and reputation, and the pedigree of the puppy’s parents will also affect the Akita puppy’s price. Other factors that impact the cost of an Akita puppy include the bloodline, gender, and show quality. 

Reportedly, the initial cost and expenses during the first year after buying an Akita puppy could be between $4500 and $8500. After that, the average annual expenditures could be between $2200 and $4500. That first year of an Akita puppy’s life will involve significantly higher vet costs like vaccinations, tests for congenital diseases, microchipping, neutering, or spaying.

Some of the estimates of essential costs are listed below; however, none of the food and water bowl, bedding, toys, etc., are included here. 

• Premium Food & Treats $400 – $900
• Vet Bills & Preventative Care $700 – $1500
• Training $20 – $300
• Registration & Tags $10 – $20
• Insurance $720 – $1320

Potential Akita parents need to be aware of their expenses before committing to taking a puppy home.

How to Name an Akita?

Naming your Akita is a task that deserves careful consideration, starting with understanding that the name you ultimately choose would mean nothing to the puppy, who is only interested in the sounds you make when talking to her. The unique sound to listen for when you call her from far away. 

That doesn’t mean you should pick any old name because the puppy won’t know the meaning. Your special puppy needs a unique name close to your heart.

Below are some considerations as you mull over lists of names for your Akita.

Here’s what to consider.

You can find inspiration in many places. The Akita is practically famous, which can serve as inspirations listed below. 

•  A loyal dog called Hachiko became the most famous Akita Inu of all time after waiting nine years at a train station for the return of its dead owner in the 1920s. A statue to honor his loyalty was later erected.
•  Why not use the American Akita’s roots as inspiration and choose a Japanese name? Always call out the names to hear the sound and check your puppy’s reaction as you do that.

Several Japanese names for your Akita are listed below.

What are the Different Types of Akitas?

There are only two types of Akitas, the American Akita and its ancestors in Japan, the Akita Inu Breed. However, they are both classified as Spitz breed dogs, typically those with Nordic ancestry. Below are some of over 50 spitz breed dogs.

• Icelandic Sheepdog
• Alaskan Malamute
• Chow Chow
• Finnish Lapphund
• Finnish Spitz
• American Eskimo Dog
• Husky
• Keeshond
• Japanese Akita Inu
• Japanese Spitz

What Dog Breeds are Similar to the Akita Breed?

The following four breeds have lots in common with the Akita:

• Siberian Husky: Although not closely related to the Akita, the Siberian Husky shares a similarly huge frame, thick grey or black coat, athletic nature, and a stubborn streak as other types of spitz. The husky is also very loyal, outgoing, and resilient. know more about the Siberian Husky Breed Caring social life & activities.
• Shiba Inu: Perhaps the most famous Japanese dog export, the Shiba Inu is an ancient breed that dates around 300 BC. It was initially bred as a strong and adept hunter in Japan’s rugged mountain terrain. Still, today the Shiba Inu is a popular companion, widely loved for its expressive appearance and personality. Coat colors include red, sesame, or black and tan.
• Ainu: Also known as the Hokkaido, this breed originated in Japan’s northernmost island. Its muscular build, exceptional bravery, resistance to the cold weather, and extraordinary sense of smell made it an excellent hunting companion for the native Ainu people. Coat colors include brindle, sesame, solid white, red, black, and wolf grey.