Akita
Quick Summary
Powerful, loyal guardian breed best suited for experienced owners. Combines dignified temperament with protective instincts. Requires dedicated training and socialization.
Contents
Weight Range
70-130 lbs
♂ Male: 100-130 lbs
♀ Female: 70-100 lbs
Height Range
61-71 inches
♂ Male: 26-28"
♀ Female: 26-28"
Life Expectancy
10-13 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Working Group
Originally bred for Developed in Japan's mountainous Akita prefecture during the 17th century, these dogs served as skilled big-game hunters and loyal guardians of nobility
Popularity
#47
Very popular breed choice
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 26"-28" |
| Female Height | 26"-28" |
| Male Weight | 100-130 lbs |
| Female Weight | 70-100 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,500-4,000 for purebred puppy, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary expenses range $500-1,000, with emergency funds recommended.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Dignified and courageous, Akitas display profound loyalty to their families while maintaining natural guardian instincts. Their energy level is moderate to high, requiring consistent exercise. Generally reserved with strangers and selective about canine companions.
Social Needs
Moderate social needs with strong family bonds. Can be reserved with strangers and selective with other dogs. Tolerates alone time well if properly trained, but requires regular family interaction.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Akita stands as a testament to Japanese breeding excellence. With a bear-like head, small triangular eyes, and thick double coat, these dogs command attention. Their muscular build and dignified stance reflect their ancient heritage as hunters and guardians. Displaying unwavering loyalty and natural protective instincts, Akitas combine strength with remarkable gentleness toward family members.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Extremely loyal to family
- ✓ Excellent guard dog
- ✓ Clean and fastidious
- ✓ Quiet unless necessary
- ✓ Independent nature
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Same-sex dog aggression
- ✗ Not ideal for first-time owners
- ✗ Heavy shedding
- ✗ Strong-willed personality
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Courageous, Dignified, Profoundly Loyal |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Daily Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including brisk walks, supervised play sessions, and mental stimulation activities. Moderate to high intensity level, with preference for cooler times of day due to their thick coat.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Akitas require 3-5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for protein content and joint-supporting nutrients. Prone to food allergies, so consistent diet monitoring is essential.
High-quality protein-rich diet of 3-5 cups daily, split into two meals. Premium dry kibble supplemented with joint-supporting nutrients recommended. Monitor portion sizes to prevent obesity. Fresh water always available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with secure, fenced yards. Requires significant indoor space and climate control. Thrives in cooler climates but can adapt to moderate temperatures with proper care.
Requires minimum 1,000 square feet of living space with secure outdoor access. Thrives in homes with fenced yards. Adaptable to apartment living if exercise needs are met, but prefers larger spaces.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Noble guardians from Japan's snowy Akita prefecture, these dogs gained fame through the legendary Hachiko, who waited nine years at a train station for his deceased owner. Their unwavering loyalty and hunting prowess earned imperial protection.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Japan's mountainous Akita prefecture during the 17th century, these dogs served as skilled big-game hunters and loyal guardians of nobility.
Fun Fact
Hachiko, the famous Akita, waited nine years at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner's return.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires consistent grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise regimen, and early socialization. Health screening for breed-specific conditions essential.