The American Akita is a courageous and independent breed that is both a loyal family dog and a vigilant guard dog. Originally from Japan, Akitas are large, powerful dogs with a very bear-like appearance.
Introduction The American Akita Dog Breed
The American Akita originated in Japan as a versatile hunter and guard dog skilled at tracking large game like wild boar and bear. In the early 20th century, the Akita was crossed with larger breeds like the Mastiff, Great Dane, St. Bernard and Tosa Inu which increased its size and broadened its head. After World War II, U.S. servicemen fell in love with the Akita and brought them back to America where the breed developed distinct characteristics from its Japanese ancestry.
Adaptability ★★
Adapts Well To Apartment Living ★
Good For Novice Owners ★
Sensitivity Level ★
Tolerates Being Alone ★
Tolerates Cold Weather ★★★★
Tolerates Hot Weather ★★
All-around friendliness ★★
Affectionate With Family ★★★★★
Kid-Friendly ★★
Dog Friendly ★
Friendly Toward Strangers ★
Health And Grooming Needs ★★
Amount Of Shedding ★
Drooling Potential ★★★
Easy To Groom ★★
General Health ★★★
Potential For Weight Gain ★★
Size ★
Trainability ★★
Easy To Train ★★
Intelligence ★★
Potential For Mouthiness ★
Prey Drive ★★★
Tendency To Bark Or Howl ★★★
Wanderlust Potential ★
Exercise needs ★★★★
Energy Level ★★★★
Intensity ★★★
Exercise Needs ★★★★
Potential For Playfulness ★★★★
- Appearance: Large and powerful double-coated dogs with a bear-like, regal appearance characterized by a broad head, erect ears, and curled tail.
- Characteristics: Courageous, dignified, profoundly loyal with reserved personalities. Alert and responsive.
- Popularity: 47th most popular breed according to AKC.
- Temperament: Docile and affectionate with family; can be intolerant with strangers. Independent and strong-willed.
- Lifespan: 10-13 years
- Coat Color: Any color including fawn, white, brindle or pinto.
- Purebred: Yes, the American Akita is a purebred dog developed from the native Japanese Akita breeds.
How to Care for an American Akita dog breed
Food:
- High-quality commercial dog food specially formulated for large or giant breeds with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
- Meat-based protein sources like chicken, lamb or fish rather than plant-based proteins.
- Monitor caloric intake to prevent obesity.
Environment:
- Access to a securely fenced yard for daily exercise.
- Proper shelter from extreme heat or cold.
- Socialization to accept visitors into the home from a young age.
Care: Give them structured obedience training, daily mental stimulation through interactive toys or “jobs” to do around the home, regular nail trims, and teeth brushing.
Grooming: Brush their thick double coat weekly and bathe only when needed using mild shampoo. Trim the hair between foot pads if long. Check and clean facial folds, ears and teeth regularly. Clip nails monthly.
Preparing for an American Akita
Invest time in consistent training and early socialization. Be a confident pack leader establishing rules, boundaries and limitations.
- Stock up on durable chew toys, high quality food, poop bags, a good vacuum, and grooming essentials.
- Prepare to keep them stimulated with regular exercise, play time, or a “job” to fulfill their work ethic.
Essential Supplies:
- Broad, flat collar or front-clip harness for leash training
- Interactive food toys
- Slicker brush and undercoat rake
- Common Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, bloat, hypothyroidism, VKH disease, PRA, elbow dysplasia
- Necessary Vaccines: Rabies, parvo, distemper combination; Leptospirosis; Bordetella
Common Names for American Akitas
Give an Akita a noble or warrior-related name that suits their courageous spirit and matches their impressive presence.
Zeus, Bear, Samurai, Yukon, Everest, Atlas, Dakota, Rocky, Chief
How to Buy/Adopt an American Akita
The American Akita is most popular in colder climates like the northern U.S., Canada and Alaska. Expect to pay $1,200 to $4,500 for an Akita puppy from a reputable breeder. There are many Akita rescues across North America focused on rehoming adults and seniors rather than puppies. Before bringing one home, check:
- General health condition
- Vaccination records
- Past medical issues
Some rescues include Akita Rescue Society of America, Atlanta Akita Rescue, and Kentucky Akita Rescue Society.
“How to stop American akita bitting?”
Use positive reinforcement training to curb biting and teach acceptable chewing habits as a puppy. Redirect the biting onto chew toys.
“How to do Socialisation and Raising Friendly for American akita?”
Extensive socialization starting as a young puppy is vital. Use reward-based training so they associate strangers with good things.
“How to train your American akita?”
Use firm, consistent, positive reinforcement training. Establish yourself as the confident pack leader.
“How long should we check for American akita’s health with vet?”
Get an overall veterinary check-up every six months and be vigilant monitoring for any developing health issues.
“Are American akita good family pets?”
Yes, with proper training and socialization they can be devoted family companions but supervision is still required around small children.
“Are American akita dogs good with children?”
They can do well with older, respectful kids but require supervision around toddlers who may get knocked over accidentally. Always teach children how to properly interact.
“Are American akita dogs good with other animals?”
They tend to be dog-aggressive and have a high, uncontrolled prey drive making them poor matches for homes with other pets. Careful supervision is always required.
“Is a American akita a Smart dog?”
Yes, the American Akita is a highly intelligent breed. However, they are also independent thinkers requiring patient training with an experienced owner.
“Temperament of American akita?”
The Akita temperament is loyal, courageous, dignified yet profoundly devoted and affectionate with family members. They are innate guard dogs who are territorial and can be intolerant of strangers.
“How many type of American akita?”
There are two breeds: the American Akita and the Akita Inu which is the original Japanese breed.
“How many color of American akita?”
Common colors include fawn, brindle, pinto and white but they can be any color.
“How long can a American akita can live?”
The average lifespan of an American Akita is 10-13 years.
“Can American akita cause allergies?”
Yes, since Akitas shed heavily year-round they can aggravate allergies.
“Are American akita ferocious?”
They have a powerful, imposing presence and make natural guard dogs so some may perceive them as aggressive or ferocious. With proper socialization and training, Akitas can be gentle companions.
“Are American akita have much hair loss problems?”
No, they do not commonly suffer from abnormal hair loss or balding issues. Expect heavy shedding year-round.
By following our website, you can find the perfect dog breeds for you and provide them with the best possible dog care. Remember that owning a dog is a lifelong commitment that requires time, money, and patience. But it is also a rewarding experience that will bring you joy and companionship. All information in Dog care tips.
