Akita Dog Breed Overview
One of the most searched dog breeds on the internet, Akita belongs to the Large sized dog. Also known as Japanese Akita, this breed was discovered first in the Japan . The average lifespan of this dog breed is 10-12 years and is associated with the Working Dogs Group.
Dog Breed Name: Akita Other Names: Japanese Akita Size: large size dog Average Height: Male: 26-28 inches (66-71 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) Average Weight: Male: 75-120 pounds (34-54 kg), Female: 75-110 pounds (34-50 kg) Energy: high level energy Origin: japan Group: Working Dogs Life Span: 10 to 12 years Dog Breed Overview: 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 large game (including bears).This valiant breed was introduced to America by a woman of no small stature: Helen Keller. The Japanese held Helen Keller in high esteem and took her to Shibuyu to show her the statue of Hachiko, an Akita who achieved worldwide fame in the 1920s for his loyalty. Hachiko's owner, a professor, returned from work each day at 3 p.m., and his devoted dog met him daily at the train station. When the professor died, loyal Hachiko continued his daily vigil until his own death a full decade later.When Helen Keller expressed her desire to have an Akita for her own, she was presented with a puppy, the first Akita brought to America. Keller was delighted with Kamikaze-go and was deeply saddened when he died of distemper at a young age. Upon hearing this news, the Japanese government officially presented her with Kamikaze's older brother, Kenzan-go. Keller later wrote that Kamikaze had been "an angel in fur" and that the Akita breed was "gentle, companionable, and trusty."After World War II, returning American servicemen who had been stationed in Japan brought back more Akitas. Thomas Boyd is credited with producing the first Akita stud to sire puppies in the U.S., starting in 1956. The American Akita eventually evolved into a more robust dog than the Japanese Akita and was valued by many for this reason.Yet there were those who wanted to remain true to the Japanese standard. This split caused a decades-long battle that led to a delay in acceptance by the American Kennel Club. Finally, in 1972, the AKC accepted the Akita Club of America, but the split is still wide today and is a matter of great concern to Akita fanciers on both sides.What is never debated is the Akita's historical and famous combination of fearlessness and loyalty. These traits were once put to the test at the London Zoo, when a Sumatran tiger cub was orphaned. The zookeepers needed special help in raising the cub, and they chose an Akita puppy for this important task. They knew the Akita would not be frightened and could engage in play that would help the tiger cub with necessary life lessons. Moreover, the Akita's dense fur would protect him from sharp claws, and the pup's inherent loyalty to his playmate would provide desired companionship and protection for the bewildered, orphaned cub. The Akita served in the role successfully and "retired" from the job when the tiger reached nearadulthood.This is a dog who is truly fearless, fully confident, and will exhibit unfaltering devotion to family. Colours: Red,Fawn,White,Black,Brown, Temperament: Alert,Dignified,Friendly,Responsive,Courageous,Docile,Intelligent,Vigilant,Independent,, Faithful,Willing,Protective. Pros:
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Akita Dog Breed Price
Akita from regular breeders cost you from $800 to 1200 per puppy.
Akita Dog Breed Size
The Akita varies in size: males are normally about 26-28 inches (66-71 cm), in height and around 75-120 pounds (34-54 kg), in weight, while females are normally around 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) in height and 75-110 pounds (34-50 kg) in weight.
Akita Dog Breed Temperament
The Aki-Poo may be vocal without barking extensively, like the Poodle. This hybrid combination produces dogs that are typically affectionate, loyal, lively, easy-going and playful. When properly socialized, the Aki-Poo enjoys playing with children and can do well with other household pets.
How long does a Akita live?
The average lifespan for an Akita is 8 to 14 years. That’s because these are medium-sized dogs with a good mix of genes in their blood.
Interesting Facts about Akita
- The Akita can aggressive with other dogs and is especially prone to same-sex aggression. They’ll need socialization training to overcome these tendencies.
- The Akita is not a good choice for first-time dog owners.
- Positive socialization and consistent, firm training are essential for the Akita. If he is mishandled or mistreated, they often respond by becoming aggressive.
- The Akita will chase other pets in the house if not trained properly.
- The Akita sheds—a lot!
- Prolonged eye contact is considered a challenge by the Akita, and they may respond aggressively.
- Training the willful Akita can be challenging and requires understanding, experience, and patience. It’s best to work with a trainer familiar with the breed, but be sure to be involved in the training, yourself.
FAQ’s on Akita Dog
Are Akita Dangerous Dogs? Are Akita naturally aggressive?
The next question to answer is: are American Akita dogs prone to attack humans? No, they do not do it. American Akita dogs are prone to bravely defend the life of their human family, sometimes risking their own life in doing so. Far from being dangerous, this dog is extraordinarily loyal and courageous.
Are Akita smart?
Yes, Akita are a highly intelligent dog breed.
Are Akita trainable?
They are highly trainable, have the ability to learn complicated tasks, and perform excellently as search and rescue dogs.
Can Akita be kept with other dogs?
The Akita can aggressive with other dogs and is especially prone to same-sex aggression. They’ll need socialization training to overcome these tendencies. The Akita is not a good choice for first-time dog owners. Positive socialization and consistent, firm training are essential for the Akita.
Can a Akita attack its owner?
Akitas are often devoted to their owners but aggressive towards people they don’t know, and if they attack, they can cause lasting trauma.
Do Akita have locking jaws?
No, they do not have locking jaws.
Are Akita safe to keep with kids?
Akitas are not the best breed of dog for kids. This is because they are large, powerful, and headstrong; and can become aggressive if they feel the need to protect. They can also be possessive of food and toys and are generally not open to play and being fussed over.
What should I feed my Akita?
Akita dogs will thrive on a complete and balanced dry or wet dog food. Akitas may also benefit from a high-protein formula to support a healthy, active lifestyle. Of course, Akita puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food for the first year of life.
When do Akita lose their teeth?
They start losing teeth at various ages. Playing rough and chewing bones can cause them to come out prematurely. However, most start to lose their teeth in the 3-4 month range and are done teething by 6-8 months. The molars are usually some of the last to come out. Most of the other teeth are usually already their adult te
How long does a Akita live?
An Akita can live anywhere from 10to 12years.
