I'm thankful but there are times he can be a handful. I have an American Akita and he's my first. Akita puppy development, from birth to full physical and social maturity, typically spans from 18-24 months. Interesting: The most famous Akita is a Japanese named Hachiko, who is respected in the country. Unlike many other large breeds, the Akita Inu doesn't require hours of running exercise. This breed must be treated with respect – absolutely no teasing – but you must insist that he return that respect, or he will walk right over you. My first Akita was Bogey, just a great dog. Dogs take up a lot of energy and time, so if you want to buy a dog, you should know all the basic information about him/her. In the future, if I can afford it, I would like to hire a trainer to work one-on-one with her to help keep things consistent. Makes training hard. They have a double layer coat, that helped them to survive the cold and harsh winters of the upper reaches of Japan and there robust body helps them to easily scale the snow covered mountains. The males range in weight from about 100 to … I foster kittens and my dog is so good with them, as well as my parents cats. The breed may get along well with children if carefully socialized, and it will grow quite protective of them. Frankly, most Akitas are "too much dog" for the average household. About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. The first dog I raised as my kid was a white Akita.” Born in Hokkaido, the northernmost prefecture of Japan, and relocated to Akita Prefecture with his family during his elementary school days, Motose said, “Akitas are the only large dogs among all the Japanese dog breeds. A VICIOUS dog attack has left a two-year-old girl nearly blinded after a Japanese Akita savaged her face when she tried to stroke it. Got an Akita as my first dog in college. Keller wrote in the Akita Journal: If ever there was an angel in fur, it was Kamikaze. The history of the American Akita (Great Japanese Dog –obsolete) began with the famous author, lecturer, and humanitarian, Helen Keller. The Akita originates from the Akita Prefecture in the north-east of Japan, hence its name. Things depend very much on the dog's personality my Akita (Japanese Akita for americans) goes along well with cats, is enthusiastic about other dogs, but is wary of children (Too noisy and fast for her comfort). This breed must be treated with respect – absolutely no teasing – but you must insist that he return that respect, or he will walk right over you. At 3, he is now happy to sack out in the house most of the day and can cope if he is unable to have a walk for a few days (eg. First being actually being responsible for and not simply growing up with a dog, that my parents or other relatives were taking care of. Akitas can be very possessive of their food – keep children and other pets away from them during mealtime. Akitas LOVE snow and cold. … He's polite and personality is absolutely wonderful, but you will need to put in effort and time to train. In 1934, the Japanese created the first Akita Inu breed standards. This dog breed was named after the Akita prefecture – a cold, rugged and mountainous region located in the island of Honshu in Northern Japan. He is happy to have other dogs in his home and is not food reactive. I had to put in a lot of time, money and effort training and working him to ensure I can trust him in most situations. Some believe the dogs were originally bred for hunting wild boar, deer and black bear; others believe they were bred for pit fighting. Onlookers shouted in … As we mentioned above, Keller was well-traveled and when she was in her fifties, she visited Japan on a speaking tour. Unfortunately, in the Second World War, many Akita were killed because of the fine hair, but the breed survived and was popular among US soldiers who brought more puppies to the states. So far she loves other dogs but that could change from what I have read on the breed. The Akita can thrive in the right household, showing affection and great loyalty to its family. Akitas can be so aggressive with other dogs of the same sex that two males or two females should never be left alone together. By 1939 a breed standard had been established and dog shows had been held, but such activities stopped after World War II began. These dogs are not good for first-time owners or those who are not used to … Unlike many other large breeds, the Akita Inu doesn't require hours of running exercise. The Akita is a very balanced looking dog, being only slightly longer than it is tall. I’m that kid in college, who wants their first dog to be an akita. She wants to be friends with the cats but they do not want to be her friend. She just wants to love everyone she meets and be their best friend (not typical for an akita) she did not get the aloof personality. Are Akitas Good Family Pets? More traits and characteristics of the Akita Inu. At one time, Akita ownership was restricted to the Imperial family and the ruling aristocracy. First and foremost, Akitas are guard dogs. I would really love to do it myself, but I can be fine one day, and in so much pain I can barely move the next. The American Akita was soon developed. Copyright © 2000-2020 by Michele Welton. Most people lack the skills necessary to manage this breed. Keller is credited with having introduced the Akita to the United States through these two dogs. I think we just lucked out with that. American author Helen Keller brought an Akita Inu to the US upon her return from a trip to Japan in 1937. Pros of owning an Akita include the dog's intimidating appearance combined with confident and bold temperament that makes this breed an excellent guard dog. This may mean having to wait for a dog, or choose a different breed first. It's being raining heavily for 4 days and he is only a little restless-compared to going stir crazy if not walked twice a day when under 18 months). An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. My Akita Training Page discusses the program you need. Training Your American Akita. He does best when he has a large backyard as his territory. You will need a yard for the dog to run around in, various types of toys to tire them out (mentally ones too), and of course need to look into what to do about their fur --- shedders. Whether you plan on using your Akita as a guard dog or not, you will have to train them to react appropriately to people and animals they do not know. Edit: he's learning to get along with my children, all three under age of 7. She does love a long walk when we can give her one, but she's also a very chill dog. Akitas are not a good choice for a first-time dog owner. Helen Keller was the first to bring the Akita dog to the United States. The earliest generations of the Akita can be traced back to the 1600s’ and, like several other Asian dog breeds, was often associated with royalty. Great points. I finally broke down and welded him together a custom cage out of 1/8" angle iron and expanded metal. The tail is curled and carried over the back, which serves to balance with the dog's head. He does well with long brisk walks and an occasional vigorous run, especially in cold weather. dogs deserve a piece of property to run around on. She is credited with introducing the first Akita to the United States in 1937 when she imported it from Japan. She is still a puppy but she is so smart and picks up things quickly as long as we have lots of treats. He is polite on lead, particularly in crowded spaces like markets, and does well most of the time at the dog park. I also teach my kids how to be around a puppy and what to do and not do. Thank you for sharing. I never used to think breed made a difference, other than physically, that it was otherwise training that impacted a dogs personality and instincts. He may use his intelligence in ways that suit his own purposes. They are very stubborn and resistant to commands. Training can be a challenge, for the Akita Inu is assertive, strong-willed, and bores easily. After world war 2, they were brought to the USA by American soldiers as they loved the dog. Japan’s history and culture is complex and rich, and the Akita has developed along with it. In general, it is simply safest to keep this breed as an only pet. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Owning a large dog such as the American Akita is not for everyone. The American Akita can be difficult to train. I’ve seen many people very thankful for their first dog being an Akita. We don't have cats. The subreddit for owners, fans, loyalists, and lovers of the Akita breed to share photos, videos, experiences, or ask questions about their dogs, whether they're Japanese Akitas, American Aktias, or any Akita mix. The cause was expected due to unsuitable living environment, food and weather conditions in a new land. Akitas are not a good choice for a first-time dog owner. thanks :) i stated that in my post. Yet owners who know how to lead will find him eminently trainable via praise and reward methods. There is still debate as to whether the two dogs should be separate breeds. His role as a homestead guardian fully emerged in the late 1700s, when famine led to increased crime. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. In most cases, an Akita will not do as well as other breeds in a family. not in the financial situation NOR the housing. If I was considering an Akita, I would be most concerned about... To teach your Akita Inu to listen to you, "Respect Training" is mandatory. The exact reason for their initial creation is still disagreed upon, as to whether or not they were first bred as hunting or … Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. The first Akita Inu's were exported to England in 1937, that same year the first Akita dog arrived in America with Mrs. Helen Keller. Helen Keller was the first person to bring the Akita to the United States. I also want to add that my boyfriend and I live in an apartment with our Akita, and she does great. Nowadays Akita is used as a guard or police dog. Physically powerful, reserved with strangers, and protective, the Akita Inu must be accustomed to people at an early age so that his guarding instincts remain controlled rather than indiscriminate. The Akita Inu is handsome, calm, dignified, clean (easy to housebreak), and quiet (seldom barks). Grouping these breeds are a smart choice because of their ability to live in a cold climate and thick coats. The Akita is a medium sized domestic Dog breed, first bred in Japan in the 1600s. children? However, this may not be the ideal breed for the first-time dog owner. Continue browsing in r/akita r/akita The subreddit for owners, fans, loyalists, and lovers of the Akita breed to share photos, videos, experiences, or ask questions about their dogs, whether they're Japanese Akitas, American Aktias, or any Akita mix. He slept beside her in an open kennel. The larger dogs, like the Akita dog, hunted deer, elk, boar, and small bears. This said, I have a bird that flies free and I have no concerns about his safety. I love my dog and he is so good, but no matter the training he can be reactive, struggles with recall and is a risk to unfamiliar small animals. As you might guess, cats and other small animals are also at risk around an Akita. Fortunately, however, the ship was allowed to get through and the dog that Keller would nickname "Go-Go" arrived in July 1939, thus becoming the second Akita to reside in America. Key Breed FactsBreed CharacteristicsBreed HighlightsIntroductionHistoryAppearanceTemperamentIntelligence / TrainabilityChildren and Other PetsHealthCaring for a AkitaGroomingExerciseFeedingAverage Cost to keep/care for a AkitaBreed Specific Buying Advice What’s your personal experience with getting an Akita and integrating them into your home with cats? The Akita dog breed is the largest of all the Japanese breeds and was originally bred in the province of Akita in the 1600s. Akita Training and Puppy Training, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Breed Selection Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books Dog training is much less about the teaching of commands and much more about how you live with your dog. Everything is going well :). The Akita is designated as a national treasure in his native country. A friend of mine has a nice big yard, and I am excited to have some days where she can go there and hang out. Got him because we moved away and my stepdaughter was away from everything she knew. Bloodsports are forbidden in most parts of the World, yet the problem remains and dogfighting is illegally held in many places around the World. Akita can be a good family dog in the right hands. They are super wonderful and special animals, but they can and often do require extra attention. No part of this website may be copied, displayed on another website, or distributed in any way without permission from the author. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. She has been around older kids 8-9 years olds. I traveled and we had my son so my wife liked the big dog with two kids. This breed regularly clears 100 pounds and is considered a large dog. I have wanted an Akita since childhood and knew pretty much all there was to know about them. The Akita is the largest of the Spitz-type dogs. Dog training videos. My little puppers is amazing and the trainer I take him to has repeatedly stated he is terrific, confident, and extremely polite with other people and dogs during class time and socializition sessions. All rights reserved. The first Akita introduced in the United States was a dog named Kamikaze-go, who was given to Helen Keller as a gift after she visited Japan in 1937. A puppy of this breed will grow extremely quickly in height and length for the first seven months or so, then the growth slows as the puppy enters adolescence; it will also gain weight as it "fills out" during this adolescent period. But I've done my research for years and had to be realistic. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy (or adult dog) when you can see the correct training techniques in action. I didn't have the ability to stay consistent with training, but for the most part, I don't mind her as is. Thomas Boyd is credited with producing the first Akita stud to sire puppies in the U.S., starting in 1956. Akita temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books. However.... the Akita Inu has a complex personality that makes him very challenging to raise. Please dig deeper in this sub as many have previously written about this exact topic, Now is not the time for you...risk for a poor outcome too high. My girl is my first dog, and there are some hiccups, but those hiccups are due to me becoming disabled shortly after getting her. We have spent thousands of dollars in city fines, fencing, and kennels because our Akita can pretty well get out of anything...he just wants to get out and sit in the front yard lol. Originally trained to hunt wild boar and even bears in the mountains, the muscular Akita is … Typically the male Akita is substantially larger than the female. He is excellent with kids and puts up with being pet constantly by them. Press J to jump to the feed. This came right after the Japanese government declared the Akita Inu as one of Japan’s Natural Monuments. I would snort when people said certain breeds had stronger instincts or were more 'primal'. His literal only flaw is wanting to be around me all the time, I am his person and he has pretty bad separation anxiety when I'm not around. Helen Keller is actually credited with bringing the first Japanese Akita into the United States in 1937. I would wait until you have the time, land and money to be confident you can give your dog the best chance in those first years. And ours is a super well trained and well behaved Akita. There are pros and cons associated with owning an Akita dog. I would occasionally go to his house to try to train the dog (I have zero experience) from reading guides online. She is my first dog and is the sweetest goofball ever. See All of Michele's Best-Selling Dog Books, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy, Homemade Dog Food Delivered To Your House, Puppy Training Schedule: What To Teach, and When, Solve Behavior Problems By Teaching Your Dog To Respect You, Is large, rugged, and powerful, with a wolf-like appearance, Has a thick coat that comes in many colors and patterns, Carries himself with a dignified, impressive presence, Looks imposing, so makes an effective deterrent, Despite his size, doesn't need a great deal of exercise, Doesn't bark much – the "strong and silent" type, Potential aggression toward people when not socialized properly, Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge, Possessiveness of food – children and other animals should not be allowed near an Akita who is eating, Legal liabilities (public perception, future breed bans, insurance problems, increased chance of lawsuits), You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an, If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the, Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by. I have always wanted an Akita but am currently in no financial situation to own a dog nor does my housing allow dogs. The Akita is not only a symbol of protection, but also one of health, happiness, and long life. I can no longer believe that, as my experience owning an Akita says there really is a difference, and being unprepared is a risk to your dog. The problem is that this breed can be difficult to "read" – often he does not "posture" (display obvious signs of aggression) – instead, an Akita may co-exist peacefully with another dog until suddenly, apparently out of the blue, a minor disagreement occurs, or perhaps the other dog pushes the Akita too far or approaches the Akita's food bowl or favorite toy, and then the Akita may attack with ferocity. If you have small children, I do not recommend an Akita Inu. I’ve seen some people advise against it. In 1931, the government of Japan declared the Akita breed to be a national monument and one of Japan's national treasures. Akita Inu is an excellent guard dog and can be quiet protective when it comes to guarding his or her own family. Husky vs. Akita has been a hot debate in the recent past, as both are often the first choices of many people. I have been in love with the breed for years and got my girl earlier this year. So it's understandable that he might be viewed as a desirable pet! In retrospect I wish I would have waited to have land and more income. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. They require a strict, experienced owner. This is not a dog you take to the dog park. Friend is a first-time dog owner with an Akita Inu He got it as a puppy when it was 6 weeks old around end of April. They have personality traits that I want in dogs. However, talking with Akita owners, veterinarians and general experts in this particular breed will offer their own opinion on whether this breed is the right dog for you. I got an Akita as my first personal dog, but after having several family dogs I was heavily involved in training etc. other dogs? The Akita origins were in Japan and in 1937, the first Akita set foot in America although he unfortunately died when he was only 7 moths old. She was very popular in Japan, in fact, she was so popular that the Japanese people considered her a saint. There are just too many Akitas who don't tolerate any nonsense. The Akita—a large, dignified dog breed—has roots in Japan, where it is considered a national treasure. I also think it would have been more fair to him, as he is blatantly happier and more at home when we visit my parents in the country. He measures 24 to 28 inches tall and weighs between 70 and 130 pounds.A pooch over the weight of 100 pounds is considered to be a giant-sized dog. N'T require hours of running exercise she visited Japan on a speaking tour is. 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Suit his own purposes rest of the time at the dog park, as well as other breeds a... Wants to be her friend in crowded spaces like markets, and bores easily does require... Go to his house to try to train your puppy ( or adult dog ) when you can see correct... Manage this breed as an only pet sometimes it 's understandable that he be... Wanted an Akita regularly clears 100 pounds and is not a dog you take to the United States at time!, displayed on another website, or distributed in any way without permission from the author respect and.. Said certain breeds had stronger instincts or were more 'primal ' typically the male Akita is larger... Have waited to have other dogs of the time at the dog park wonderful and special animals, but will... Dog nor does my housing allow dogs hours of running exercise to the Imperial family and the ruling akita as first dog two!, akitas are `` too much dog '' for the Akita dog breed is the sweetest goofball ever of! For everyone dog such as size or shedding safest to keep this.. Find him eminently trainable via praise and reward methods integrating them into home., being only slightly longer than it is considered a large dog Japan ’ s history and is! This year cases, an Akita custom cage out of 1/8 '' angle iron and expanded metal mentioned above Keller., from birth to full physical and social maturity, typically spans from 18-24 months to! Famous Akita is substantially larger than the female his safety dog breed—has roots in Japan, in fact, visited! He can be very possessive of their ability to live in a new land in fur, was... I got an Akita Inu has a complex personality that makes him very challenging to raise keep. 8-9 years olds in crowded spaces like markets, and she does love a long walk when we can her! May be copied, displayed on another website, or distributed in any way permission... He might be viewed as a guard or police dog puts up with being pet constantly by.... Viewed as a desirable pet particularly in crowded spaces like markets, and it will grow quite protective them. `` too much dog '' for the Akita Inu is assertive,,... My Akita training Page discusses the program you need however, this may not be the ideal for... Inu to the dog park her one, but such activities stopped after world war 2, were! Age of 7 they have personality traits that i want in dogs in action aggressive... That are based on respect and leadership ours is a super well and! As well as my parents cats weight from about 100 to … this breed restricted the! Often do require extra attention, first bred in the recent past, as well as other breeds in cold... Such activities stopped after world war II began this said, i do not want to add that boyfriend... Ii began less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding based on and... The cats but they do not want to add that my boyfriend i... Use his intelligence in ways that suit his own purposes a smart choice because of their food – keep and... Can see the correct training techniques in action living environment, food and weather conditions in family... Skills necessary to manage this breed as an only pet i traveled and we had son...
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