Akita

Working Group

Also known as: Akita Inu, Japanese Akita, Akita-ken

Size Category:Giant
Height:♂ 26-28 inches♀ 24-26 inches
Weight:♂ 100-130 pounds♀ 70-100 pounds
Life Span:10-14 years
Compare Akita

Affectionate With Family

How affectionate a breed is likely to be with family members, or other people he knows well. Some breeds can be aloof with everyone but their owner, while other breeds treat everyone they know like their best friend.

Good With Young Children

A breed's level of tolerance and patience with childrens' behavior, and overall family-friendly nature. Dogs should always be supervised around young children, or children of any age who have little exposure to dogs.

Good With Other Dogs

How generally friendly a breed is towards other dogs. Dogs should always be supervised for interactions and introductions with other dogs, but some breeds are innately more likely to get along with other dogs, both at home and in public.

Openness To Strangers

How welcoming a breed is likely to be towards strangers. Some breeds will be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the location, while other breeds will be happy to meet a new human whenever one is around!

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Note: Scores reflect typical breed tendencies. Individual dogs may vary based on training, environment, and genetics.

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Note: Some traits may be unavailable for certain breeds due to limited or inconsistent data from recognized sources.

Care Guide

  • ●Akita grooming requires minimal effort but focuses on coat and hygiene maintenance
  • ●Brush their thick double coat at least once a week to keep it looking its best
  • ●Expect heavy shedding twice a year ("blowing") and increase brushing frequency during these periods to reduce loose fur
  • ●Trim nails regularly to prevent pain or mobility issues
  • ●Brush teeth often to maintain dental health
  • ●Their clean nature means little "doggy odor," so odor control is rarely needed.

Colors & Markings

Colors

BlackFawnRedWhiteBrown BrindleRed, Black OverlaySilver, Black OverlayBrown, Black OverlayFawn, Black OverlayRed BrindleSilver BrindleBlack, Red UndercoatBlack, Fawn UndercoatBlack BrindleFawn BrindleBlack, Brown UndercoatBlack, Silver UndercoatWhite, Red ShadingBrownSilver

Markings

Black Mask, White MarkingsBlk & White Mask White MkngsPinto, Black & White MaskBlack MaskWhite MaskPinto, Black MaskWhite Mask, White MarkingsPintoWhite Markings

Health Information

Akitas are prone to bloat, a critical stomach-twisting condition requiring immediate veterinary care. Owners must watch for warning signs to prevent this life-threatening issue. Responsible breeders screen for genetic health risks, including hip dysplasia, eye disorders, and thyroid problems, ensuring puppies inherit sound structure and longevity.

Recommended Health Tests

Hip EvaluationOphthalmologist EvaluationThyroid Evaluation

📜 History

The Akita breed originated in Japan’s Akita prefecture during the early 1600s, evolving from spitz-type dogs bred across northern latitudes. Developed under a nobleman’s guidance after his exile to the region, Akitas were refined into powerful, hardworking hunting dogs capable of tackling large game like wild boar, deer, and bears. Historically, ownership was limited to Japan’s imperial family, but today they serve as devoted family protectors worldwide. Deeply rooted in Japanese culture, Akitas symbolize loyalty and longevity, with traditions like gifting Akita figurines to newborns. The breed nearly faced extinction multiple times before a national club was established in 1927 to preserve it. Helen Keller introduced Akitas to the U.S. in the 1930s, and their popularity grew post-WWII through returning military personnel. Officially recognized by the AKC in 1972, Akitas remain iconic, especially through legends like Hachiko, a symbol of unwavering devotion.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Akita can be good with children if properly socialized. They are generally friendly but may have their limits when it comes to rough handling.
The Akita sheds a moderate amount. Regular brushing can help keep loose hair under control.
The Akita has average trainability. They can learn commands well but might require consistent repetition and motivation.
The Akita requires moderate grooming. Brushing a couple of times a week should keep their coat in good condition.
The Akita can be a suitable choice for a first-time owner who is willing to do their research and dedicate time to training and care.

🔗Related Breeds

Breeds similar to Akita

Boerboel

Boerboel

8/10
80% Compatibility
Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dog

8/10
80% Compatibility
Anatolian Shepherd Dog

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

7/10
70% Compatibility
Boxer

Boxer

6/10
60% Compatibility
Compare Akita with Boerboel

Overview

About This Breed

The Akita is a dignified, courageous, and profoundly loyal breed with a strong independent streak. While deeply devoted to their family, they can be aloof with strangers and exhibit a protective, watchful nature. Their dignified demeanor and stout heart make them excellent guardians, though their stubbornness and strong prey drive require early, consistent training and socialization.

🎭Temperament

DocileAlertResponsiveDignifiedComposedFriendlyReceptiveFaithfulCourageous

Purpose

Hunting (big game such as wild boar, deer, and Yezo bear), guardian, and companion dog

Breed for

Hunting bears

Best Suited For

Experienced dog owners, active families with space, or individuals who can provide consistent training and socialization; adaptable to small homes if exercised adequately

Ideal Owner Profile

This breed is best suited for a confident, experienced owner or family who can provide firm, consistent leadership, ample space, and early socialization to manage their protective instincts and independence.

Training Difficulty

Hard

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Common Challenges

Owners may face challenges with the Akita's strong-willed and stubborn nature, requiring patient and persistent training, as well as potential aggression toward other dogs, necessitating careful supervision in multi-dog households.

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About Our Data

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Accuracy Assured

Our breed data is standardized using a consistent scoring system across temperament, trainability, and care needs to ensure fair comparisons based on the same criteria.

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We regularly update information as new data becomes available. Our goal is to provide an honest, helpful resource for researching dog breeds and adoption decisions.