The red Akita has a unique looking and attracts many dog lovers. This breed is one of the national treasures of Japan and is considered the most loyal and beautiful dog. Now we’ll discover all red Akita traits & facts and reasons why they are desirable pets.
Keep reading to learn about this unique pup!
Are there red Akitas?
Yes, there are many red Akitas out there. Red is the most popular coat color of Japanese Akita, also called Akita Inu.
Red Akitas have a reddish-brown color around the forehead, back, and limbs. The color varies from pale beige to almost fiery red.
White hair grows on the inside of the ears, cheeks, bottom of the muzzle, chest, abdomen, and inner part of the limbs.
Also, in the process of becoming an adult dog from a puppy, the red fawn part often becomes thinner, and the ratio of red fawn and white often changes.
One of the reasons why the Japanese Akita breed gained popularity outside of Japan was the Hollywood movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” in 2009, turning the true story of the Hachiko dog into a family drama with Richard Gere and Joan Allen.
Hachiko is the symbol of loyalty. He was so devoted to his owner that he waited for him every day at the Tokyo train station. After his owner died in 1925, the dog continued to go there every day for 9 years until his death.
Interestingly, three Akita dogs that were used in the role of Hachiko in “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” are also red Akitas.
What is the rarest Akita color?
The rarest of four Japanese Akita colors is sesame. Even in their hometown of Akita, Japan, this coat color is no longer popular.
Sesame Akita’s coat is a mixture of red, black, and white. The base of Sesame dogs is red with black tips on the back and white bottom. Tipping is usually light, even on the head and body.
What’s the difference between Japanese Akita and American Akita?
The Akita breed began to split into two types in the post-World War II era: Japanese Akita (commonly called Akita Inu) and the American Akita.
After receiving two Akitas from the Japanese government in 1938, Helen Keller, an American woman, is credited with bringing the breed to America. So, over time, differences started to appear.
Red Japanese Akita has a more fox-like appearance and only has four acceptable colors: red fawn, brindle, white, and sesame.
The American Akita has a muscular body frame with a more bear-like appearance, often has a black mask on the face and a much wider variety of colors.
Is an Akita a good family dog?
Their charm and intelligence make Akita become the desirable pet of many dog lovers. An Akita is a great family dog for families with old children who can understand how to treat a dog respectfully. However, they are not recommended for first-time owners.
How long do Akita dogs live?
Red Akita dogs can live from 10 to 13 years. In fact, large breeds like Akita live shorter than smaller breeds because of early aging and genetic disorders.
However, their lifespan also depends on multiple factors like diet, temperament, exercise, etc.
Some Akitas can even live a good life longer than thirteen. But some, unfortunately, don’t even reach ten by unexpected accident or illness.
How big do Akita get?
Height: 58 – 64 cm (Female, Adult, At the withers, Japanese Akita), 64 – 70 cm (Male, Adult, At the withers, Japanese Akita)
Weight: 23 – 29 kg (Female, Adult, Japanese Akita), 32 – 39 kg (Male, Adult, Japanese Akita)
Are Akita dogs smart?
Yes, Akita dogs are very smart. They are absolutely excellent guard dogs for your family if you want a dog that can supervise everything in your house and ensure it is always safe.
What is the personality of an Akita?
With family, red Akitas are affectionate, playful, and incredibly loyal. They enjoy their family’s company and wish to participate in daily activities. They’re active and like carrying toys and other household objects.
However, Akitas are suspicious of strangers and need to be supervised when introduced to new people or pets. They are not friendly dogs.
They are alert, intelligent, and brave. Akitas tend to be aggressive toward other dogs, especially those of the same sex.
Due to Akita’s strong personality, they are suitable for a one-dog household. In addition, they are not the dog for a first-time owner and timid person. Akitas need an owner who can provide loving, firm discipline.
And as we know from their guarding and hunting background, Akitas are excellent guard dogs. They are always aware of their surroundings and ready to defend their family in any situation.
Akitas are big but not loud. They only bark when necessary. As a result, they serve as effective early warning signals.
Akitas hate to live in groups and rather be alone and never back down from any challenge.
How often do Akitas shed?
Since the red Akita has a thick double coat, they are heavy shedders. Their shedding seasons are 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.
You should brush your dog 3-4 times a week to remove loose, dead hairs and keep the fur soft and shiny. Besides, bathe your dog every six weeks to three months, trim their nails once a month, and clean their ears weekly.
How much exercise does an Akita need daily?
As Akitas are large and active dogs, adequate exercise is vital to keep them happy and healthy. Let them exercise for 1-2 hours every day in a large, secure garden. It can include walking, swimming, or playing games.
Ensure they are in a safe environment where no other animals are their high prey drive. Also, don’t let puppies play on hard surfaces until at least two years old, when their joints are fully formed.
Are Akitas easy to train?
No, Akitas are not easy to train due to their intelligent and stubborn temperament.
Positive reinforcement is the most effective dog training method for them. This breed must be treated with respect and no teasing. Using high value and rewards to keep them motivated, convince your dog that it is always better to listen to you.
In addition, you need to socialize the red Akita puppies with other dogs early to help soften the edge of their wariness. A well-socialized Akitas tend to be less aggressive and more friendly.
Whatever your dog’s breed is, training is a must if you want to eliminate bad behavior and create the obedient, well-behaved dog of your dreams. You can choose suitable online classes from these 20 reputable SpiritDog Training courses to learn how to “successfully” train your canine using science-based positive methods, or grab the free guide below.
What should Akitas eat?
Red Akita Inus can eat what most dogs eat. Their diet needs age-appropriate and high-quality food. It often includes kibble, grain, meat, and fish. Except a few exceptions, they are safe to eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, and human foods.
Akita dog price
A healthy red Akita puppy from a reputable breeder will cost running anywhere between $600 and $1,900.
However, if you are looking for a puppy that showed quality or took part in exhibitions and competitions, the price can be much higher.
Before buying an red Akita, you need to know all the advantages and disadvantages of this breed and consult with breeders or owners.
Is an Akita a Husky?
No, Akita is not a Husky. They are two distinct breeds with different appearances and characters.
Related post: Top 12 Akita Mixed With Husky (Huskita) Facts
Conclusion
Red is the most common coat color of Akita Inu (Japanese Akita). Red Akita is a dog that has a reddish-brown color around the forehead, back, and limbs. The color varies from pale beige to almost fiery red. They are intelligent, stubborn, and steadfastly loyal.
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