Utility Group
Akita
The Akita is one of Japan’s most revered national treasures β a powerful, dignified, and deeply loyal breed with a history stretching back centuries as a hunter…
π
Size
Large
πΎ
Coat
Dense Double
β‘
Energy
Medium
βοΈ
Groom Every
8β10 weeks
Character
What is the Akita like?
The Akita is one of Japan’s most revered national treasures β a powerful, dignified, and deeply loyal breed with a history stretching back centuries as a hunter of bear, boar, and deer in the mountainous regions of northern Japan. The story of Hachiko, the Akita who waited at Shibuya station for his deceased owner for nearly ten years, perfectly captures the essence of the breed’s legendary loyalty. Akitas are profoundly devoted to their families and form intensely strong bonds with their owners. They are quiet, dignified, and self-assured β rarely barking without good reason. Their combination of power, intelligence, and loyalty makes them magnificent companions for experienced dog owners.
Social Skills
Akita with Other Dogs
Akitas require careful socialisation as they can be dominant and territorial with other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Dog-on-dog aggression is a recognised characteristic of the breed and same-sex Akitas are rarely kept together successfully. They are reserved with strangers and make excellent guard dogs. With their own family they are gentle and devoted, particularly with children they have been raised with. However, their size and strength means all interactions with children should be supervised. They have a strong prey drive towards small animals.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a Akita
The Akita has a thick double coat consisting of a harsh outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat. They are significant seasonal shedders, particularly during their twice-yearly heavy moults when daily brushing is essential. At other times, weekly brushing with a slicker brush and undercoat rake keeps the coat in good condition. Professional grooming every eight to ten weeks for a bath, de-shedding treatment, nail clip, and ear clean is recommended. Their coat is naturally clean and odour-resistant. The Akita is a fastidious dog that grooms itself much like a cat.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your Akita
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan β including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Advantages
Pros of Owning a Akita
- βIntensely loyal and devoted to family
- βQuiet and clean β not excessive barkers
- βNaturally clean and odour-resistant
- βImpressive, powerful appearance
- βExcellent guard dog instincts
- βLong lifespan for a large breed
Considerations
Cons of Owning a Akita
- !Dominant with other dogs β especially same sex
- !Requires experienced handling
- !Reserved with strangers
- !Heavy seasonal shedding
- !Strong prey drive
- !Not suitable for first-time owners