Akita - A Majestic Breed

The Akita is a sturdy breed of dog with a personality that is fairly calm. It is also a large breed which can weigh as much as one hundred pounds which makes it hard to fit into small dog sweaters. It can get to a height of about twenty inches (measured at the shoulders). With its bear-shaped head it is well recognizable along with its tail that is curled tightly.

History of the Breed

Japan has given the Akita the distinction of being one of seven dog breads to be named as national treasures. It originated in Japan in the Tohoku region and is named for the AkitaPrefecture where it is thought to first exist.

They were originally used for hunting. The early dogs were smaller in stature than the Akita of today. Along with hunting the dogs were used as guard dogs by their owners.

In 1937 the first Akita came to the United States by Helen Keller. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1972. It belongs to the working group of dogs.

Temperament for the Breed

The Akita's temperament is calm and laid back one and sometimes likes to hang on their comfortable dog beds. This makes it perfect for a pet for the family setting. They are quiet in nature unless there is a reason to bark. Akitas are also easy to housebreak and to keep clean. In fact they only take a matter of weeks in some cases to housebreak. The clean themselves similar to how cats clean themselves.

Along with being a clean breed the Akita is devoted the protecting children. Of course it is always wise to watch a child around any pets. Children are so unpredictable that they could do something that upsets even the most laid back of breeds.

It is necessary to socialize the Akita with your other pets in the house when it is just a pup. Akitas are hunters on top of being possessive so they need to know the other pets in the house are not to be preyed upon. Without being socialized they could be quite aggressive to other pets you own.

Health Issues for the Breed

The Akita breed is fairly healthy when bought from a respected breeder. However a few health issues can sometimes come up with the breed. These health issues are:

• Acquired Myathenia Gravis
• Bloat or Gastric Torsion
• Eye Conditions
• Hip Dysplasia
• Unique Juvenile Onset Polyarthritis Syndrome
• Uveo Dermatological Syndrome
• Von Willebrands

These health issues rarely occur in this breed and can be treated effectively through either surgery or medications prescribed by your veterinarian.

Grooming Requirements for the Breed

The Akita's coat is medium length with an undercoat that has a soft texture. Its coat needs to be brushed ever week. A slicker, steel pin brush, and a grooming comb should be used to brush the Akita for the full effect. You could also brush it with a brush that has firm bristles.

This breed does shed its undercoat completely two times a year. So during these times extra brushing will keep down the mess. Use not only a rake for the undercoat but a brush also for grooming during this heavy shed. Only bathe the Akita when necessary to retain the natural oils in the coat.