Dogs 101 - AKITA - Top Dog Facts About the AKITA

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Dogs 101 - AKITA - Top Dog Facts About the AKITA

The Akita is a large breed of working dogs, originally from Japan. Most kennel clubs identify the American Akita and the Japanese Akita as separate breeds, but in USA and Canada the two are considered within one classification and allowed to inter-breed. The dog gets its name from the mountainous Akita Prefecture on the island of Honshu, where a nobleman, who had been exiled there in the 17th century, developed the dog’s ancestors as hunting dogs. In the intensely cold climate these hardy dogs excelled in tracking wild boar, black bear and deer, and keeping the quarry at bay for the hunter to make the kill. Later, to be used in the dog fighting industry, these dogs were also crossedwith imports like the English Mastiff, the Great Dane and the St. Bernard’s. World War II saw further crossing with German Shepherds to help the breed survive a culling order for non-military dogs. Beginning in the 1930s, and more frequently after the war ended, these dogs began coming to the US and the breed’s popularity has grown substantially over the decades.

Time for some Ruff Trivia:
- The Akita shares its wolf-like appearance with members of which family of dogs?
o A: Spitz
o B: Spaniel
o C: Hound
What do you think, give it your best guess in the comments below before we get to the answer! Hang on tight and we’ll get back to this Ruff Trivia Question toward the end of the video.

The adult male Akita has a height between 25 and 28 inches, while the female’s height varies between 23 and 26 inches. The male’s weight is typically between 85 and 130 pounds and that of the female between 65 and 110 pounds. This is a large, heavy-boned dog, with a broad triangular head, a deep muzzle and broad jaws. The eyes are small, the ears erect and the tail large and curled. The undercoat is think, soft and dense. Outer coat is longer, straight, harsh and standing off from the body. All dog breed coat colors are allowed in the American Akita, while the Japanese ones are restricted to red, fawn, sesame, brindle and pure white, all with whitish markings.

Grooming:Akitas shed fairly heavily and more so in season, which is two to three times in a year. Daily brushing to remove dead hair can keep this in control. Trimming of nails, brushing of teeth and cleaning of ears need to be regular.

Temperament:The Akita is a fearless and independent breed that can be domineering with other pets and generally not suited for off-leash dog parks. It tends to be aloof with strangers and makes a good watchdog. On the other hand, with its own family it is utterly devoted and willing to show its goofy side. It is known to have a strong affinity for children.

Training:Because of its large size and domineering nature, the Akita is not recommended for inexperienced owners. For the same reason, early obedience training is also important. Though a hardy dog, it has moderate physical exercise needs, which can be met by a daily one-time walk on leash or a run in a safe area with tall enough boundary walls.

Health:The life expectancy for the breed is 10 to 12 years. The breed is prone to a number of autoimmune and immune-mediated endocrine diseases. Other disorders that are seen commonly are hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, microphthalmia, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy and von Willebrand’s disease. Onions have been noted to cause changes in red-blood cells in Akitas.

Daring, dignified, dominant and devoted, the Akita lives for its family. Though not a breed for everyone, it can really be the perfect dog if it finds proper love and guidance.

Find out if the Akitawould be a good addition to your home. Now you can visit Brooklyn’s Corner.com to take our quiz and find out which dog would be the best match for you.
Music by Kevin McLeod - Royalty Free

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