Introduction
The Akita, also known as the American Akita, is a member of the working group of dogs. This breed is most notable for looking a lot like a giant teddy bear with its thick fluffy coat, stocky legs, and characteristic facial features. In the United States and Canada the American Akita and the Japanese Akita (also known as the Akita Inu) are considered to be the same breed, but outside of these countries they are categorized as different breeds.
The Akita is an average height of about 2.5 feet tall and weighs between 75 and 120 pounds. While this dog requires regular exercise, it is not a high energy dog.
Temperament
The Akita has a very calm and watchful personality. It is alert, faithful, and protective of its family, and it can bond very strongly with one person. The Akita is a very dominant dog, and it does not interact well with other dogs. For this reason, the Akita does best as an only dog, and should not be off its leash around other dogs.
While the Akita will watch over and protect children in the family, younger children and children visiting the home should not interact with the Akita without supervision. These are large and powerful dogs, and they need to be treated with respect.
Health
The Akita lives for an average of 10 to 12 years. Increased health risks associated with the breed include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and various immune diseases.
History
While the Akita is from an old breed that originated in Japan, it was not officially recognized as an AKC breed until 1972. Known for its agility and strength, the Akita was bred as a valued hunting dog and companion, and yet it almost went extinct during World II due to disease and being hunted as a food and for its pelt. Only through pet owners who hid their dogs or released them into the mountains was this breed able to survive.
Akita
Quick Facts
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Weight: 75-120 lbs
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Height: 25-28 in
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Coat: Thick and fluffy
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Temperament: Calm, watchful, alert, faithful
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Lifespan: 10-12 Years