If you are looking for a loyal and protective dog breed, then the American Akita is one that you should consider. Originally from Japan, this breed is known for its courage and strength, making it a great guard dog for your home.

However, they are also known for their affectionate nature towards their families, making them the perfect companion for those who love spending time with their furry friends.

History of American Akita

The American Akita is a descendant of the Akita Inu, a Japanese breed that was initially bred for hunting and fighting. In the 1600s, Akita Inu was used to hunt large animals like boars and bears in Northern Japan.

When the ban on dog fighting was issued in Japan in 1908, breeders began to focus on preserving the breed and its bloodlines. In the 1920s, an effort was made to revive the breed through crossbreeding with Mastiffs, Great Danes, and German Shepherds, which resulted in a larger and more robust version of the Akita Inu, known as the American Akita.

The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955.

Physical Appearance

The American Akita has a large and muscular build, with a broad head and thick neck. They have triangular ears that stand erect and small almond-shaped eyes that are usually dark brown.

Akitas have a double coat that is thick and soft, with a range of colors that include white, brindle, brown, and black. They have a curled tail and bear a resemblance to the bears of Japan, which is why they are sometimes referred to as ‘Bear Dogs.’.

Temperament

The American Akita is a loyal and protective breed, making them an ideal guard dog. They have a high level of territorial instinct and can be aggressive towards strangers or other animals if they perceive a threat to their family.

However, with proper training and socialization, they can be well-behaved and friendly towards other people and pets.

Though they are known for their protective nature, Akitas are also affectionate and loyal towards their families. They love spending time with their humans and thrive on attention and love.

They are intelligent and independent, which can make them a bit stubborn at times, but they are also eager to please their owners and learn new tricks and commands.

Training and Exercise

Due to their strong and independent nature, Akitas can be a bit challenging to train, and they require a firm and consistent approach to training.

Early socialization is crucial, and a puppy socialization class is an excellent way to get your Akita puppy interact with other dogs, people, and different environments. It helps them learn how to behave appropriately in different situations and around different people and animals, reducing the risk of aggressive behavior from their protective instincts.

Exercise is also vital for Akitas. They are an energetic breed with a high level of stamina, and they require at least an hour of daily exercise to burn off excess energy.

They love to run, hike, and play, and a long walk or run in the park will help them release their energy and keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Health Concerns

The American Akita is generally a healthy breed. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to some health issues that potential owners should be aware of.

These include hip dysplasia, autoimmune disease, thyroid disease, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Grooming

Akitas have thick, double coats that shed seasonally, and regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat healthy and shiny. They should be brushed at least once a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting.

Bathing should be done only as needed, since over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils, leading to dryness and skin irritations. Regular nail trimming and tooth brushing are also essential for their overall hygiene.

Conclusion

The American Akita is a breed of dog that can offer you the best of both worlds, loyalty as a friend, and protection as a guardian.

If you are looking for a dog that can give you excellent companionship and protect your household, then you should consider adopting an American Akita.