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Akita Shedding: Here’s How Much And 5 Best Tips To Manage

Last updated on March 10th, 2024 at 04:18 pm

In today’s post, we will break down all Akita shedding facts and share with you 5 handy tips to manage their shedding effectively. Let’s dive right in!

Akita shedding facts

Akitas are notorious shedders. They pretty much shed year-round. Luckily, ongoing shedding is quite manageable. Akitas have two heavy shedding seasons in a year, and things can get a little hairy in these periods.

Akita shedding level

Akitas shed heavily twice a year, in the spring and fall, and they also shed moderately throughout the rest of the year.

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Akita shedding season

akita shedding

Shedding heavily in Akitas occurs in the fall and spring. In the fall, you will see a change in your dog’s coat and a higher incidence of shedding in preparation for the coming winter months. In the spring, your dog’s coat will become lighter in preparation for the warm weather in summer.

Why Akitas shed?

The reason why they shed is because of their working past. The breed originated in the mountains of northern Japan that were widely known for wind, snow, and low temperatures up to -30 degrees.

Akitas assisted with various duties. Through lots of time spent outdoors, they developed a double coat that helps them survive and thrive in the severe freezing weather of the past. And it’s a feature that Akitas have maintained to this day. Their coat has two layers with distinct functions. The outer layer is rough and waterproof, while the inner layer is soft, dense, and super cozy.

In short, because Akitas (and other double-coated dog breeds) have this thick undercoat, they need to get rid of it from time to time to make way for their new, healthy coat and adapt to the changing seasons. This is why Akitas shed so much.

How long does Akita shedding last?

akita shedding

Akita’s shedding period usually lasts two to four weeks. During these periods, you’ll find their fur all over your house, on clothing, furniture, and basically wherever else your dog goes.

Do they shed more than other dogs?

So, if Akitas are big shedders, do they shed more than other breeds? Well, it’s true that they are big shedders, but interestingly, their shedding is not too far off from some dogs.

Generally, breeds that shed most have double coats, just like Akitas. Not only do double-coated canines shed year-round, but they also blow their coats up to several times a year to make way for new hair. Some single-coated dogs can still shed quite a bit.

Dog breeds that might shed a lot include:

    • Alaskan Malamute
    • American Eskimo
    • Cardigan Welsh Corgi
    • Chow Chow
    • German Shepherd
    • Great Pyrenees
    • Labrador Retriever
    • Pembroke Welsh Corgi
    • Siberian Husky
    • Bernese Mountain Dog
    • Saint Bernard
    • Golden Retriever

Dogs breeds that shed less include:

    • Airedale Terrier
    • Afghan Hound
    • Briard
    • Giant Schnauzer
    • Irish Water Spaniel
    • Komondor
    • Peruvian Inca Orchid
    • Poodle
    • Portuguese Water Dog
    • Wirehaired Pointing
    • Griffon
    • Xoloitzcuintli

Akita shedding tips

akita shedding

Akita shedding depends on many factors such as the climate they live in, diet, and their grooming routine. How to deal with year-round shedding and twice-yearly blowouts? Here are 5 tips recommended by the experts to help you handle the hair.

1. Grooming regularly with the right tools

Regular grooming, especially brushing, is essential for controlling your Akita shedding. It allows you to remove loose hairs in a single grooming session instead of having them liberally sprinkled all over your house. It also helps to move the oil on their skin more evenly. Natural oils will help the fur stay in place longer.

Throughout the year, you can brush them once or twice per week. However, when Akitas are in heavy shedding season, you should increase brushing from four times a week or even daily. You can start slow if your dog is not used to brushing or doesn’t like it. Use bits of quality dry dog food as treats to encourage them!

It is essential to choose the right tool for grooming. You need to purchase the right brush and shedding tools. There are tools made specifically for dogs with double coats like Akitas, which are super handy for grooming.

2. Visit the professional groomer

red akita

Regular visits to a professional groomer help control your Akita shedding and keep their coat and skin healthy. A groomer can thoroughly wash and brush your dog and even provide bonus services like nail cutting.

The coat is not groomed regularly as a breeding ground for bacteria, fleas, and ticks. You obviously can minimize some of these risks by grooming your dog yourself. However, professional groomers, on the other hand, are trained to use the right tools and techniques for specific dog breeds. They know how to get rid of as much dead hair as possible. This efficiency is ideal when you want to keep your dog’s shedding under control. The shedding will reduce if less dead hairs fall out.

3. Feed your Akita the proper diet

akita shedding

You may not have considered this tip for dog shedding. But the proper diet can help keep shedding down. The right proportion of vitamins and minerals, especially iron, will help hair remain in place for both humans and dogs.

The best way to guarantee your Akita has the proper nutrition is by feeding them high-quality dog food. You can look for foods with protein sources like fish, beef, chicken, etc. Your veterinarian can guide you on the right food for your Akita.

To keep your dog from shedding too much, it’s best if they get the required vitamins and minerals from their regular diet. While we know vitamins and minerals are important, be cautious when supplementing. Only add supplements if your veterinarian recommends them.

4. Keep your dog well hydrated

akita shedding

The right amount of water per day, like the right food, can help control your Akita’s shedding. Dehydration can cause a dog’s skin to become dry. Dry skin leads to excessive shedding and other health issues.

In short, a well-hydrated Akita is a healthy dog whose shedding will remain under control. Ensure your furry friend always has access to clean water. Keep this tip in mind: dogs should drink approximately 1 ounce of water (1/8 of a cup) per pound of body weight each day.

5. Whatever you do, don’t shave!

akita shedding

It might seem obvious you only need to shave off your Akita hair to prevent shedding, but this is prohibited. The dog coat has evolved to provide the best possible protection for their skin and body. Therefore, removing it will put your dog at risk of sunburn, dry skin, and excess moisture or dirt. Shaving can also mess with their natural temperature control. Finally, it does almost nothing to reduce shedding.

Conclusion

The Akita shedding occurs heavily in the spring and fall to make way for their new, healthy coat and adapt to the changing seasons. They shed quite a bit and require regular grooming. These are 5 handy tips to reduce your Akita shedding:

    • Grooming regularly with the right tools
    • Visit the professional groomer
    • Feed your Akita the proper diet
    • Keep your dog well hydrated
    • Whatever you do, don’t shave!

The 5 best brushes for Akitas

Best overall: Hertzko Self-Cleaning Slicker Brush

Best dematting rake for Akitas: Pet Republique Dematting Rake

Best brush for Akita puppies: Hartz Groomer’s Combo Brush

Best brush for anxiety dogs: Mr. Peanut’s Hand Gloves Dog Grooming

Best comb for Akita: Andis 65730 Stainless-Steel Comb

FAQs

Does Akitas shed a lot?

Yes, Akitas shed a lot. They have two layers of fur, a thick inner coat, and a dense outer coat. They shed heavily twice a year, in the spring and fall, and also shed moderately throughout the year.

Are Akita dogs hypoallergenic?

No, Akita dogs are not hypoallergenic. They are a breed that is known for producing a lot of dander, which can trigger allergies in some people.

Is Akita hard to maintain?

Akitas can be hard to maintain, but they are not impossible. They require regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent mats from forming. They also need to be bathed occasionally, especially during shedding season.

How many coats does an Akita have?

Akitas have two coats: an undercoat and an outer coat. The undercoat is thick and insulating, while the outer coat is dense and protective.

Do Akitas get aggressive?

Some Akitas can be aggressive, but this is not always the case. These dogs are intelligent and independent dogs who are wary of strangers. They may become aggressive if they feel threatened.

Why is my Akita so aggressive?

Akita dogs can be aggressive for a few reasons. The most common reasons are fear, resource guarding, and pain.

What are the cons of having an Akita?

Owning an Akita has the following cons: heavy shedding twice a year, moderate shedding throughout the year, aggression towards strangers if not appropriately socialized, stubbornness, and requiring hours of exercise per day.

Are Akita Inus clingy?

No, Akita Inus are not clingy. They are independent dogs and do not require constant attention from their owners. However, they enjoy spending time with their families and can be very affectionate.

Are Akitas yappy?

No, Akitas are not yappy. They are relatively quiet dogs, and they only bark when they have a reason to, such as to alert their owners to something.

Do Akitas smell?

Yes, many Akitas smell. However, this can be minimized by bathing your dog regularly.

Why is my Akita losing so much hair?

Shedding, allergies, parasites, and skin conditions can cause hair loss in Akitas. If you’re worried about your dog’s hair loss, it’s best to consult a veterinarian to check for any underlying medical conditions.

How often do you bathe an Akita?

How often you bathe your Akita will depend on several factors, such as their activity level and the time of year. However, you should generally wash them once or every other month. 

Why is my Akita so itchy?

Possible causes of itchiness in Akitas include dry skin, allergies, and parasites like fleas, mites, and lice.

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