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Here’s the list of 50 must-know Akita facts that any fan of the breed should know:
1. Where are Akita dogs from?
Akita dogs were originally from Odate, Akita Prefecture, a mountainous region of Japan.
2. What Akitas were bred for?
Back in the day, Akitas were bred for hunting and guarding in Japan.
3. What Akita means
Akita is named after where they are believed to have originated, the province of Akita in northern Japan.
4. All types of Akitas
There are two types of Akitas: the Japanese Akita (Akita Inu) and the American Akita.
The first Akitas were introduced to the United States by Helen Keller in 1937 after she received them as a gift during a tour of Japan.
The main difference between these two types is that the Japanese Akita has a more fox-like appearance, while the American Akita has a more bear-like look.
5. How popular are Akitas?
The Akita is one of the most well-known Japanese dog breeds. In addition, they are hugely popular in foreign countries these days.
6. Akita lifespan
The average lifespan of an Akita is around 10 to 13 years.
7. Akita dog size
The Akita is a large and powerful breed. Males are typically 26 to 28 inches tall and weigh between 85 and 130 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 24 to 26 inches tall and weighing 70 to 110 pounds.
8. When is Akita full grown?
Akita puppies reach full-grown around two years old.
9. Akita coat
Akitas have a thick, luxurious double coat. They adapt well to colder climates thanks to their dense, soft undercoats. The guard hair, which is the topcoat, is slightly longer and coarser.
10. Akita with long hair
Long-haired Akitas that closely resemble teddy bears also exist, but they are not as common as short-haired ones. So they are harder to find than standard Akita puppies.
11. Akita colors
There are four acceptable Japanese Akita colors: red fawn, brindle, white, and sesame. On the other hand, the American Akita can come in any color, including mixed colors.
12. Akita eyes
Eyes are a distinctive feature of the breed, contributing to an impression of alertness. They are relatively tiny, almond-shaped, clean, and dark brown.
13. When do Akita ears stand up?
Akita ears usually stand up when these pups are around 9 to 14 weeks old.
14. When do Akita puppies tails curl?
Akita puppies typically have straight tails when they are born. Between 2 and 3 weeks old, their tails start to curl slightly. At 5 or 6 weeks old, they should closely resemble the characteristic shape of a standard Akita.
15. Akita energy level
As a historic hunting breed, it’s no surprise that the Akita has a relatively high energy level.
16. Is Akita friendly?
Akita is friendly and affectionate toward family members but aloof with strangers.
17. Do Akitas get aggressive?
The Akita is known as a fearless and faithful companion. But since this breed was created for guarding, Akitas will quickly become aggressive if you don’t train them well.
18. Will an Akita protect its owner?
You don’t need a security system when you have an Akita because this fiercely loyal canine will protect you at all costs.
19. Are male or female Akitas more protective?
The protective behaviors of Akitas are not significantly different between males and females.
20. Akita bite force
The bite force of an Akita is 350–400 PSI. Just another reason to give your new puppy the proper training and socializing from an early age.
21. Do Akitas have lock jaw?
You cannot open Akita’s jaw until they decide to release it.
The Akita is a large, powerful breed with a strong protective instinct. Due to their size, temperament, and strength, Akitas can be dangerous if you raise them improperly.
Fortunately, most Akitas that are properly socialized and trained in a loving environment don’t pose much of a threat.
23. Akita who waited for owner
The Akita dog who waited for his dead owner to return for ten years in the same station is Hachiko. His story is the legacy of the dog-loving community and resonates with people around the world.
24. Akita dog movie
The touching story of Hachiko was first made into a film in the 1987 blockbuster Hachiko Monogatari. It became even more well-known after the film “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale,” an American movie starring Richard Gere and directed by Lasse Hallström.
25. Do Akita like to cuddle?
Yes, Akitas do like to cuddle, but only with their owners.
26. Do Akitas smell?
Akitas don’t smell bad. Being incredibly clean dogs, they often groom themselves like cats.
27. Do Akitas bark a lot?
Akitas rarely bark, and they don’t bark for no reason.
28. Are Akita good guard dogs?
Akitas are excellent guard dogs. This large breed has strong protective instincts and will immediately investigate any sign of an intrusion into their home.
29. Akita health issues
Health issues common to Akita include hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and autoimmune hypothyroidism.
30. Are Akita hypoallergenic?
The Akita isn’t a hypoallergenic breed.
31. Akita exercise needs
Regular exercise will not only keep Akitas fit and healthy but also work wonders to prevent boredom! You should spend 30 minutes to an hour a day walking your dog. Remember to keep them on a leash!
32. What is the best dog food for Akita?
The best food for an Akita is nutritionally complete and balanced fresh food for large canines, as well as optimal meal plans for different combinations of breed, age, activity level, ideal weight, and sensitivities.
33. When does Akita shed?
Akitas shed year-round, but they lose a large amount of hair during the spring and fall, which can leave a real mess.
34. Akita grooming
Keeping your Akita well groomed is part of being a good parent. By brushing your dog once per week and bathing them every few months, you can help them have a healthy coat and keep shedding under control.
Related post: The 5 Best Brush for Akita – Reviews & Top Picks
35. Are Akita dogs good family dogs?
Akitas can be good family dogs. They will gladly share their silly, affectionate side with family members and protect those they love.
36. Can Akita be left alone?
Yes, Akitas can be left alone for short periods of time if they have access to water and the temperature of your house is not too hot.
37. Can Akita live with other dogs?
Properly socialized Akitas can learn to tolerate other dogs but will most likely try to maintain their status as the top dog no matter what.
38. Can 2 Akitas live together?
Two Akitas of different genders can live together in the same house, but never leave them alone unattended.
39. Akita with cats
These canines have a strong prey instinct and can be unpredictable, so you should avoid leaving your Akita and cat alone together, even if they seem to get along.
40. Are Akita dogs kid friendly?
Akitas can be okay with kids, but that is not always the case. We do not recommend these large dogs for families with small kids since they are very powerful and can be aggressive with rough play by children.
41. Can Akita live in apartment?
Akitas can live in an apartment, but you should give them plenty of exercise.
42. Can Akita survive in hot climate?
Although the hot weather is not ideal for the Akita, they can still live in it. However, don’t forget to take extra precautions if you live in those areas.
43. Can Akitas be off leash?
Since Akitas can be difficult to handle and occasionally act aggressively toward other animals, they should not be allowed off-leash in a public area.
44. Akita training
The best way to make your Akita a happy and well-adjusted family member is by training and socializing them from a young age.
As an intelligent, strong-willed, and proud breed, the Akita responds best to positive training techniques based on motivation, not force. Get training tips for Akita dogs!
45. Which is bigger Akita or German Shepherd?
The Akita is larger than the German Shepherd.
46. Which is bigger Akita or Husky?
The Akita is larger than the Husky.
47. Which is bigger Akita or Shiba?
The Akita is much bigger than the Shiba Inu.
48. Why Akitas are the best?
- They bring good luck.
- They’re forever loyal and sweet to you.
- They are incredibly intelligent.
- They are excellent guard dogs.
- They will make your life happier than ever.
49. Akita dog price
An Akita puppy from a reputable breeder ranges in price from $600 to $1,900, and it will cost you $30 to $100 per month to raise them.
- Choco (chocolate)
- Hachi (the number eight)
- Hachiko (the most famous Akita dog)
- Kenzo (the wise one)
- Maron (le marron)
- Maru (round)
- Pochi (spot)
- Sakura (cherry blossoms)
- Tadeo (loyal)
- Taro (eldest son or boy)
- Yuki (good fortune)
Top Picks For Akita Dogs
1. BEST FRESH DOG FOOD
We Like: The Farmer’s Dog – Made of human-grade meat and veggies and customized to your dog’s individual needs. Get 50% off your first order of The Farmer’s Dog.
2. BEST DOG TREATS
We Like: Zuke’s Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Training Dog Treats – One of the best-selling dog treats.
3. BEST CHEW TOY
We Like: KONG Classic – Great toy for heavy chewers like our Akitas.
For a list of all the supplies you need for your new dog, check out this Minimal Puppy Checklist to get all the right things to ensure a successful adoption process.
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