How to Select an Akita Inu

The Akita Inu comes from Japan ("inu" means dog). These dogs were once used as bear and boar hunters, hunting in pairs and under the control of the human hunter. Today, they find work as guide, sled and therapy dogs. Helen Keller was so charmed by this breed that she introduced the first Akita to the United States.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog Brushes
• Dog Carriers
• Dog Collars
• Dog Dishes
• Dog Food
• Dog Leashes
• Dog Toys
• Dog Treats
• Nail Clippers For Dogs

1. Choose an Akita if you want an intelligent, loyal, affectionate companion. They are aggressive and make good watchdogs. Akitas don't bark without a good reason.

2. Try this breed if you're looking for a good family dog. They're affectionate with children in their own family but should be supervised with visiting children because they're very protective (boisterous play can incite an Akita's protective instincts). Keep in mind that Akitas will accept children if the children are there first, but may need time to adjust to new children in the home.

3. Note that with diligent training and careful watch, Akitas can get along with other pets. This will take time and effort on your part - and don't expect your Akita to coexist with ducks or chickens; they're too tempting as a snack.

4. Expect your Akita to grow to 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder when full-grown (females are about an inch shorter than males) and weigh between 70 and 120 lbs.

5. Anticipate paying between $500 and $1,200 for a good-quality dog.

6. Consider adopting an Akita from a rescue group. Many are already house-trained and finished with the chewing stage. There is usually nothing wrong with the dog; the owners didn't research the breed and later discovered that they and the dog were incompatible.

7. Remember that Akitas learn easily and respond well to a firm and consistent trainer.

8. Be prepared to enjoy a good 10 to 13 years with your Akita - this is the average life expectancy of an Akita Inu.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that you or someone in your home is willing to spend 30 to 60 minutes a day playing with and exercising the dog.
• While Akitas don't bark much, they aren't silent dogs. They grumble and mutter. These sounds can sometimes be misinterpreted as growls by people who don't know the dog.
• Recognize that this breed is extremely dominant and needs to be firmly disciplined. Firm does not mean harsh.

[Lime]

on 12/30/2008 I am interested in any comment how you think Akita would suit family with small children. We have 2, 4 and 5 yrs and I would prefer young or adult male instead of poppy if I can find one suitable for us.

I would be greatful for any comment as my previous dog was very dominant Bullmastif and he could be a bit aggressive with children.

[nitrospeed]

on 3/8/2007 soz i meant 09-03-07

[nitrospeed]

on 3/8/2007 Im getting my very first Akita:D:D just can't wait to go pick it up, ive just read all the comments and instructions and picked up alot of informations but can you help me out in like what should i do to train it aint stuff need someone help whos had experience with this very type of breed not shiba inu or the rest, email me or add me on msn on my msn which is [e-mail] ive just cleaned the whole of my garden its fully concrete with a few parts which is soil would that matter? im going to buy a shelter house and put 1 of the U shape thing which im gona put in the concrete so i can just tie him up, would that be a good or bad idea? and please tell me abit about akitas what food they like, how they would be trained and etc your the master im the beginner:D it would be great if you do even if this message is old still give me tips its never to late this message was sent 09-07-07 if you see it in 13 years haha dont bother dont think ill have one by then:(

on 8/8/2006 We rescued an Akita Inu when he was about 7 months old. The original owners did not have the space or patience for him. This breed is very active and will require a lot of time from you for the first year or two. This was no problem for us, but if you're a busy professional this is not the dog for you.
We found that taking time to teach him tricks and work with him helped calm him down and stopped some of the bad habits that he was developing (digging holes, barking).
This is a very intelligent breed and training is very easy, I don't think it us over 20 minutes for him to catch on to any trick. These dogs tend to talk to you, our dog would actually speak and sing if you asked him to.
If you are interested in this breed, keep in mind that they are very Alpha type dogs. Make sure that you get a chance to see the parents of the potential puppy, and also see how the parents are with strangers.

on 1/30/2006 After losing our first, sweet Akita girl, I have some advice for those looking to own.
Kita would not have suffered as much as she did in her 10 years if we had been more proactive with her diet and getting her knowledgeable veterinarian care. Although the veterinarian claimed to know the breed, most of the treatment and care was researched by me and begrudgingly administered by our veterinarian (too late). I have spent many hours speaking with and visiting people who own and dedicate their time to Akit's to get my information. Do not take advice from those who just claim to know the breed. We have since changed veterinarians and now see someone who has been seeing Akitas for decades. It makes a world of difference!