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Height:
26 to 28 inches (male); 24 to 26 inches (female).
Size:
Large.
Weight:
85to 100 pounds (male); 75 to 85 (female).
Availability:
Widely available.
History:
Today, the Akita is considered the national dog of Japan and is designated
as a Natural Monument. The breed has had many uses, first as an Imperial
guard dog, then as a fighting dog, hunter of deer and bear, for sledding,
and for police, army and guard work. The Akita has keen hunting abilities
and can even hunt in deep snow. He has a soft mouth, so he is suitable
for waterfowl retrieval. In Japan, small statues of the Akita are often
sent to ill people to express a wish for their speedy recovery, and to
parents of a newborn child to symbolize health. The first Akita was brought
to the United States by Helen Keller. American servicemen also brought
Akitas to the US after World War II.
Description:
A powerful and solid dog, strong and muscular with a flat, heavy head
and strong, short muzzle. The Akita is slightly longer than he is tall
with a broad, deep chest and level back. The head is broad and shaped
like a blunt triangle. The stop is well-defined with a shallow groove
going up the center of the forehead. The small, erect ears are carried
forward and in line with the neck. The small, triangular eyes are dark
brown. The nose is generally black (brown is permitted on white Akitas,
but black is preferred) and the lips are black though the tongue is pink.
The teeth should meet in a scissors bite, though a level bite is accepted.
The tail is carried high and curled over the back. The Akita has webbed
cat-like feet and is a fine swimmer. The double coat is composed of a
harsh stand-off outer coat insulated with a thick, soft undercoat. All
coat colors are allowed. Bright, clear colors are preferred.
Notes:
Very aggressive to other dogs and animals and should therefore never be
allowed to run off lead around other animals. Should definitely be supervised
with other household pets and children. Although the breed may tolerate
children from his own family, he may not accept other children. If teased,
Akitas may bite. Children must be trained to treat these dogs with kindness.
Can be very food-possessive, and willful. Capable of ferocity, but with
firm training, can make a fine pet. Obedience training requires patience,
as these dogs tend to get bored quickly. Should not be kept apart from
the family. Vocalizes with many interesting sounds, but not an excessive
barker. Beware of hip dysplasia. Buy only from OFA certified stock.
Personality:
Docile, but sometimes impetuous. Careful, very affectionate with family,
intelligent, and courageous. Fearless. Very willful--needs firm training
as a puppy. First class guard--Japanese mothers would often leave their
children in the family Akita's care. Extremely faithful. Thrives on companionship.
Behavior:
Children: Good only when raised with children from puppyhood.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Not particularly dependent or independent.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: Not generally trustworthy with other pets.
Combativeness: Very dog-aggressive.
Noise: Not a barker.
Grooming and Physical Needs:
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Fluffy coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Moderately active indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
Talents:
hunting, tracking, watchdog, guarding, police work, military work, and
sledding.
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