The Japanese Akita is considered as a large breed. They are not considered to be a dog for novice owners, as the dog’s master should be assertive in showing the dog its place in the pack, and to have some experience of dog behavior. They are naturally wary of unknown people and animals and should be well socialized to avoid undesirable aggression. Left unattended in the backyard or in a kennel, they can develop ‘personality’ problems, and may become destructive to the yard due to boredom.
They are highly pack oriented, thus, isolating them from a social environment (i.e., the owner) causes them great stress. The Akita is a dominant dog which may expect other dogs to be submissive. Akita’s should never be taken to off-leash dog parks due to this dominant behavior, as well as the fact that the dogs are large and strong, and would be difficult to restrain physically if the dog is not properly trained.
| Akita’s are devoted protectors of children in its pack, and it is said that Japanese mothers often left their children with only the Akita’s to watch over and protect them. This devotion will not necessarily extend to other children, especially if teased, and can be aloof with strangers. Common sense should prevail, and adequate supervision of pets and children is generally a good idea. Having said this, a well socialized Akita will be more comfortable with this. |  |
They are excellent house dogs. They require moderate, but regular exercise. Akita’s are known to be very quiet dogs, only barking “when there is something to bark about”.
Akita’s may take a while to train because they are easily bored and can be stubborn. Akita’s are highly intelligent, and will only obey a task if they see the point of it. They are not trick dogs. They are also a dominant species, and will not take orders from a weak or abusive leader, requiring a firm but loving education where “no” always means “no” and never “whatever”.
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An Akita is not likely to shower affection on someone that is not a member of his family or a close friend that he sees frequently, and can be extremely aloof. |
The Akita breed is famous for their loyalty, and a pet Akita will patiently follow its master from room to room, without ever getting underfoot. The tale of Hachiko (see ‘Akita History’) illustrates their loyalty.
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