1/ Akita is a breed of large dog that originated in Japan.  Akita is the original home of the Akita dog (Akita inu), the famously loyal dog of Hachiko fame.  The breed  is said to be a very well-mannered and dignified breed. The Akita is a very balanced looking dog, being only slightly longer than it is tall. 

2/ The Akita is a very ancient breed, tracing its history in Japan back more than 2500 years.  They are very intelligent and learn quickly, even as an adult dog. 

3/ The Akita dog is a large and strong breed  that has short to medium length of fur that can be quite fluffy.  Akita dogs do not need to be trimmed or shaved.  Akitas  that live indoors or cooler climates typically shed less.  The Akita has a double coat, the outer coat composed of straight  coarse hair, and the undercoat soft and dense. They are very well suited to the coldest of climates, and while it might not enjoy hot weather, its coat does lighten considerably in the warmer months to compensate for the heat. 

4/ Although the Akita is a large, powerful dog, with some males weighing over 100 pounds, they are usually docile, quiet, and need only a moderate amount of exercise and are considered a good  watchdog.  Akitas actually enjoy being an only dog and like most canines, they sleep when you’re not home. When you are home the typical pet Akita will follow you from room to room, yet has the uncanny ability not to be under foot. 

A large Powerful Dog

5/ Although the breed may tolerate and be good with children from his own family, if you do not teach this dog he is below all humans in the pack order he may not accept other children and if teased, Akitas may bite.  Any child that is allowed to run wild is an indication the family is not suitable for an Akita which needs firm rules and control.  A confident and consistent approach is required to train an Akita, but they do not respond well to harsh methods of training. 

6/ An Akita is not likely to show affection for  someone that is not a member of his family or a close friend that he sees often.  Also they are often  intolerant of other dogs, particularly of the same sex. 

7/ An Akita is an ideal hiking or walking dog and they are large and sturdy enough to handle even very difficult and challenging terrain.  Akitas usually take well to weight-pulling and sledding, though as a breed they are not highly represented in such activities.  The Akita’s soft mouth makes it possible for him to work as a waterfowl retrieval dog. 

8/ Although Akitas are generally healthy dogs they can be prone to skin problems and eye disease.  They  should be given a bath, only when absolutely necessary, with a mild shampoo to prevent stripping the coat of the natural oils, as frequent bathing removes the natural waterproofing of the coat.  Also they’re prone to developing thyroid or skin problems.  Hip dysplasia is a known problem and screening of the parents before breeding is a must.

9/ Twice daily feeding throughout their adult lives is recommended to lessen the chance of bloat .

10/ Akitas tend to be somewhat messy drinkers.

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