Akita

Akita

  • Breed Group : WORKING
  • Origin : Japan
  • Average Height : 23"- 28"
  • Average Weight : 65-115 lbs
  • Life Span : 10 - 12 years

Photo Courtesy of : Akita Rescue Mid-Atlantic Coast

  • Size

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  • Energy

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  • Intelligence

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  • Ease of Training

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  • Hypo-Allergenic

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  • Shedding

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  • Good with Kids

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  • Good with Other Pets

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  • Guard Dog

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Akita Rescue Organizations

  • The Akita Inu is native to the island of Honshu in the region of Akita in Japan, where it has remained unchanged for centuries. The Akita Inu is considered a national dog of Japan and is one of seven breeds designated as a Natural Monument.

    The breed has had many uses, such as police and military work, a guard dog (government and civilian), a fighting dog, a hunter of bear and deer and a sled dog. The Akita Inu is a versatile hunting dog, able to hunt in inclement weather.

    The Akita's soft mouth makes it possible for him to work as a waterfowl retrieval dog. The dog is considered sacred and a good luck charm in the country of Japan. Small statues of the Akita Inu are often given to new parents after babies are born as a gesture of good health and to sick people as a gesture of a speedy recovery. In 1937 the first Akita, who was named Kamikaze-go was brought to the United States by Helen Keller.

    The dog was a gift given to her during her trip to Akita Prefecture. Kamikaze-go died of canine distemper not long after she adopted him. In July of 1938 another Akita named Kenzan-go, who was the older brother of her first Akita, was given to her as an official gift from the Japanese government.

    After World War II many serviceman brought Akita Inu dogs to the USA.

    There are two types of Akitas, the original Japanese Akita breed and now a separate designation for American standard Akitas. The weights and sizes are different and the American standard allows a black mask, whereas the original Japanese breed standard does not allow for a black mask.

    According to the FCI, in Japan and in many other countries around the world the American Akita is considered a separate breed from the Akita Inu (Japanese Akita). In the United States and Canada, both the American Akita and the Akita Inu are considered a single breed with differences in type rather than two separate breeds.

    The Japanese Akita is uncommon in most countries.
  • • The Akita is aggressive with other dogs, especially with 'same sex' dogs.
    • Not a good choice for first time dog owners.
    • Positive socialization and consistent, firm training will be need.
    • If mis-treated they can often become even more aggressive.
    • Love to chase other household pets.
    • Big shedder ~ not a good choice for those with pet allergies.
    • This breed is quick to define 'prolonged eye contact' as a sign of aggression.
    • Bold, alert and willful. Not a timid dog.
    • Naturally wary of strangers.
    • Extremely loyal to their family.
    • Alert, Intelligent and courageous.
    • Affectionate and playful with family members.
    • Can be a bit 'mouthy'.
    • Requires plenty of exercise to prevent boredom and a nack to become 'chewers'.
    • Can develop "hip dysplasia".
    • Gastric dilation/Bloat is known to affect this breed.
    • Can be good with children if properly treated. If mistreated, or not respected, by a child ~ could lead to problems. Not suggested to be left alone with toddlers, but great with older children.
    • Should live in a "one-pet" household, as can be aggressive with other pets.
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