Akita Dog Breed: A Complete Guide to Japan’s Noble Companion

Introduction to the Akita Breed

The Akita is a powerful, majestic breed originating from the mountainous northern regions of Japan. Known for their dignity, loyalty, and imposing presence, Akitas have earned a special place in both Japanese culture and the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. These large, spitz-type dogs combine a noble bearing with unwavering devotion to their families, making them unique companions with a rich heritage spanning over a thousand years.

Whether you’re considering adding an Akita to your family or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating breed, this comprehensive guide will provide valuable insights into their history, characteristics, care requirements, and more.

Akita Breed History

The noble Akita has a history stretching back at least 1,000 years in Japan, with a legacy deeply intertwined with Japanese culture and tradition. Originally developed in the Akita prefecture on Japan’s main island of Honshu, these dogs have served various roles throughout history.

Ancient Origins

The Akita’s ancestors, known as Matagiinu, were medium-sized landrace dogs bred as hunting companions in Japan’s rugged northern mountains. These early Akitas were prized for their fearlessness in tracking and holding dangerous game like bears and wild boar. Their exceptional loyalty and courage—traits that define the modern Akita—were highly valued by the matagi (traditional hunters) who relied on these dogs for survival in harsh environments.

Evolution Through Japanese History

During Japan’s medieval era, these regional hunting dogs remained largely unchanged. However, during the Tokugawa Shogun era (1603-1868), their role began to shift. While rural villagers in the Tōhoku region continued hunting with their Matagiinu, the nobility and upper classes began breeding the dogs to be larger and more imposing as guardians of people and property.

Unfortunately, during this period, Akitas were also used in dogfighting—a practice that influenced certain lines of the breed. In 1908, dogfighting was officially prohibited in Japan, allowing breeders to focus on preserving and improving the Akita as a large Japanese breed. By 1931, nine superior examples of the breed were designated as “Natural Monuments” of Japan, recognizing their cultural importance.

World War II and Breed Recovery

World War II nearly caused the extinction of the Akita. Dogs were confiscated for their fur, which was used for military garments, with only German Shepherds spared for military use. Some dedicated enthusiasts attempted to save their Akitas by crossbreeding them with German Shepherds to avoid confiscation.

When the war ended, Akitas existed in three distinct types: the Matagi Akitas (the original hunting dogs), fighting Akitas (bred for the fighting pits), and Shepherd Akitas (crosses with German Shepherds). Dedicated breeders worked diligently to restore the pure breed by eliminating foreign influences, eventually stabilizing the large-sized breed we know today.

Hachikō: The Legendary Akita

No discussion of Akita history would be complete without mentioning Hachikō, the Akita who became a symbol of loyalty worldwide. In the 1920s, Hachikō would accompany his owner, Professor Ueno, to the Shibuya train station in Tokyo and return each afternoon to greet him. After the professor’s sudden death in 1925, Hachikō continued to wait at the station every day for nearly ten years until his own death. This extraordinary loyalty captured Japan’s heart and showcased the unwavering devotion characteristic of the breed.

The Akita Comes to America

The first Akitas arrived in the United States when Helen Keller, impressed by the story of Hachikō during her visit to Japan in 1937, was gifted an Akita puppy. After World War II, returning American servicemen brought more Akitas to the US, establishing the foundation for the American Akita population.

Today, debate exists among breed enthusiasts about whether Japanese and American Akitas constitute one breed or two distinct breeds. As of 2020, the American Kennel Club considers them separate breeds, as do many international kennel organizations including the FCI, The Kennel Club (UK), and the Japan Kennel Club.

Physical Characteristics

The Akita is a large, powerful dog with an impressive presence and distinctive physical features that reflect their heritage as hunting and guard dogs in Japan’s mountainous regions.

Size and Appearance

Akitas are substantial dogs with a strong, muscular build. Males typically stand 26-28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 100-130 pounds. Females are somewhat smaller, standing 24-26 inches and weighing 70-100 pounds. Their large size is complemented by a dignified, noble bearing that commands respect.

The breed has a large, broad head with small, triangular eyes that give them an alert, confident expression. Their ears are relatively small, triangular, and stand erect, while their tails curl over their backs—classic features of northern spitz-type breeds.

Coat and Colors

The Akita has a dense double coat consisting of a thick, soft undercoat and a straight, harsh outer coat of medium length. This coat served a practical purpose in their native Japan, providing protection from the harsh mountain winters.

Japanese Akitas typically come in red, white, brindle, or sesame (red with black-tipped hairs). American Akitas display a wider variety of colors and patterns, including pinto and various shades with black masks. Both types undergo heavy seasonal shedding, or “blowing coat,” typically twice a year.

Temperament and Personality

The Akita possesses a distinctive temperament that reflects their ancient heritage as both hunters and guardians. Understanding their natural tendencies is crucial for anyone considering this breed.

Loyal and Devoted

Perhaps the most defining trait of the Akita is their extraordinary loyalty. Like the legendary Hachikō, Akitas form profound bonds with their families and display unwavering devotion. With their chosen people, they are affectionate, loving, and protective, often following their owners from room to room and maintaining a watchful presence.

Reserved and Dignified

Akitas typically maintain a dignified, somewhat aloof demeanor, particularly with strangers. They are not typically demonstrative with people outside their family circle and may be reserved upon first meeting someone new. This natural cautiousness makes early socialization especially important.

Protective Nature

With their history as guardians, Akitas possess strong protective instincts. They are naturally watchful and territorial, qualities that make them excellent guard dogs who will alert to unusual circumstances. While not typically aggressive without cause, they will defend their families if they perceive a threat.

Intelligence and Independence

Akitas are highly intelligent dogs with an independent streak that reflects their hunting heritage. Unlike breeds bred to work closely with humans on specific tasks, Akitas were expected to think for themselves while tracking and holding dangerous game. This self-direction, often perceived as stubbornness by inexperienced owners, requires consistent, patient training approaches.

Care Requirements

Providing proper care for an Akita involves understanding their specific needs regarding exercise, grooming, nutrition, and healthcare.

Exercise Needs

Despite their size, Akitas have moderate exercise requirements. They typically do well with daily walks and some active play sessions. While they can display bursts of energy, especially as puppies, adult Akitas are generally calm and dignified indoors. They enjoy outdoor activities but don’t require the intense exercise that some working breeds demand.

Mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Training sessions, puzzle toys, and varied routines help keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom-related behaviors.

Grooming

The Akita’s thick double coat requires regular maintenance. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat healthy, with more frequent brushing needed during seasonal shedding periods when they “blow” their undercoat. During these times, daily brushing may be necessary to manage the significant amount of hair they shed.

Beyond coat care, regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene are important aspects of Akita grooming. Like other large breeds, overgrown nails can affect their gait and posture, so keeping nails properly trimmed is essential for comfort and health.

Nutrition

A balanced diet appropriate for large breeds is essential for Akitas. Puppies benefit from large-breed puppy formulas that support proper growth rates and help prevent developmental orthopedic issues. Adult Akitas typically thrive on high-quality food formulated for large breeds, with portion control important to prevent obesity.

Some Akitas may have food sensitivities or allergies, so monitoring for any adverse reactions to different protein sources can help identify the optimal diet for your individual dog.

Training and Socialization

Effective training and thorough socialization are particularly important for the Akita, given their size, intelligence, and natural protective instincts.

Early and Consistent Training

Training should begin early, with a focus on positive reinforcement methods. Akitas respond well to clear, consistent expectations and fair leadership. Harsh methods are counterproductive and can damage the trust relationship with this sensitive breed. Short, engaging training sessions tend to be more effective than lengthy drills.

The Akita’s independent nature means they may question the purpose of repetitive commands or exercises. Training that engages their intelligence and provides clear benefits will be most successful. Patience and consistency are key virtues when working with this breed.

Comprehensive Socialization

Thorough socialization from puppyhood is crucial for developing a well-adjusted Akita. Exposure to various people, environments, sounds, and situations helps prevent overly suspicious or fearful responses. Particular attention should be paid to socializing Akitas with other dogs, as they can be same-sex aggressive and may have strong prey drive toward smaller animals.

Continued socialization throughout adolescence helps reinforce appropriate behavior as the young Akita matures and develops more independence.

Health Considerations

While generally robust, Akitas are prone to certain health conditions that prospective and current owners should be aware of.

Common Health Issues

Hip and elbow dysplasia are concerns in many large breeds, including Akitas. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other eye conditions can also affect the breed. Autoimmune conditions seem to have a higher incidence in Akitas than in some other breeds, with conditions like sebaceous adenitis (a skin condition) and autoimmune thyroiditis appearing in some lines.

Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) is a life-threatening emergency that can affect deep-chested breeds like the Akita. Owners should be familiar with the symptoms and have an emergency plan in place. Some Akitas may also be sensitive to certain medications, particularly those containing ivermectin.

Longevity and Preventative Care

The average lifespan of an Akita is typically 10-12 years. Regular veterinary check-ups, appropriate vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care all contribute to maximizing both the length and quality of life for these noble dogs.

Responsible breeders perform health testing on breeding stock to reduce the incidence of hereditary conditions. Prospective owners should inquire about health testing when researching breeders.

Is an Akita Right for You?

The Akita is not the ideal breed for every household. Their combination of size, independence, and protective nature means they thrive in specific environments with owners who understand and appreciate their unique qualities.

Akitas do best with experienced dog owners who can provide consistent training, proper socialization, and clear leadership. They are typically devoted to their families but may be reserved with outsiders, making them excellent watchdogs but not necessarily social butterflies.

Homes with other pets, particularly dogs of the same sex, may present challenges due to the Akita’s natural tendencies toward dominance and territorial behavior. Early and ongoing socialization can help, but their natural instincts should be respected and managed appropriately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the difference between Japanese and American Akitas?

A: Japanese Akitas (Akita Inu) tend to be smaller with a fox-like face and come in fewer colors (red, white, brindle, or sesame). American Akitas are generally larger with a bear-like face and come in all colors including pinto patterns. As of 2020, many kennel clubs worldwide, including the AKC, recognize them as separate breeds.

Q: Are Akitas good family dogs?

A: Akitas can be excellent family companions in the right homes. They are loyal, protective, and typically gentle with their family members. However, their size, independence, and protective nature make them best suited for families with older children and experience with large breeds. Proper training and socialization are essential.

Q: How much exercise do Akitas need?

A: Despite their size, Akitas have moderate exercise needs. Daily walks and some play sessions are typically sufficient, though young Akitas may be more energetic. Mental stimulation through training and enrichment activities is as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed.

Q: Do Akitas shed a lot?

A: Yes, Akitas are heavy shedders. They have a thick double coat that “blows” seasonally, typically twice a year, resulting in significant hair loss. Regular brushing helps manage shedding, with daily brushing recommended during seasonal coat blows.

Q: Are Akitas difficult to train?

A: Akitas are intelligent but independent, which can make training challenging. They respond best to positive, consistent methods and may question repetitive commands that seem purposeless. Early training, patience, and understanding their natural tendencies are key to success with this breed.

Author

Anjali Sayee

 

Anjali is an Associate Editor at StyleCraze with 7 years of experience specializing in hairstyles, hair care, and skin care. She has authored over 300 articles and offers expert advice on hair styling techniques, effective skin care routines, and tips for maintaining healthy hair and skin.

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