How to decide whether to have Akita Inu as a pet dog

As pretty obvious with its name, Akita Ken (or simply called as Akita) is a large dog breed originally from Japan. Other than its comforting appearance, Japanese dogs like Akita, are said to have a holistic characteristics like obedience, bravery and loyalty.

Quick facts on Akita Inu

You would recognize an Akita through his face. They have erect ears with tails slightly curled. They can grow anywhere from 24-28 inches and weight 70-100 lbs. They have whitish fur on their muzzle, cheeks, chest, neck, tail and body. Their topcoat are coarse and straight while their undercoat are dense and soft.

Advantages of Akita Inu

Easy-going

Akita Inu, unlike other breeds, has a calm temperament and is generally laid back. They are best for house pets or as company dogs for women. Today, as the number of Akita breeders is continually growing, Akitas are also trained for hunting and fighting.

Quiet dogs

You wouldn't usually hear an Akita bark, unless there is something that they need to bark out about.

Great for company

Akitas are a favorite of people who want to do away from stress. They have a certain aura that made most people feel relaxed.

Easy to housebreak

One of the biggest problems for pet owners is to house break their pets, but as for an Akita, you would not have this problem. They are generally odorless and clean. Housebreaking them needs no real effort and may take only a few weeks.

Safe for children

Akita are patient dogs and would protect children if need be. They are very gentle and are good companions for your kids. But as a caution, do not leave your children with any dogs without your supervision.

Disadvantages of Akita Inu

Tendency to be destructive

Akita may develop the need to be destructive especially when they are bored. If they are isolated from their pack (owner, other pets or from people) they may be greatly stressed.

Stubbornness

Akita may show signs of stubbornness. This is why it is important to train them during their first few months.

Dominant personality

Because Akita is generally a dominant breed, they suppose that other dogs should be submissive to them. If other dogs fail to recognize their authority, it may possibly lead to a brawl.

Ferocity

Akita may show signs of aggressiveness. They may prey on and kill small animals like mouse, rabbits, guinea pigs, or even small cats. It is best not to leave them wandering around.

On Akita Inu health

Akitas generally live for 10-14 years. To keep Akitas healthy, regular exercise would do them good. Akitas are known to be prone to specific types of diseases, here is a list of them:

•  Hypothyroid diseases

•  Canine herpes virus

•  Hip dysplasia

•  Pemphigus (pustules)

•  Bloating

Symptoms of thyroid disease among Akitas include coat and skin problems, excessive itching, and a foul odor. If you suspect a thyroid problem in your pets, consult your vet and they would diagnose your dog through a blood test and administer a hormone replacement therapy.

Training your Akita

Training an Akita may prove to be quite a challenge because of their dominant personality. The presence of food as a reward or motivation can be used in training. Break up their food into smaller pieces and give it to them every time they obeyed your command during training. Praising your Akita verbally or through gestures, like a pat in the head, can also motivate them. When your are to use leash for Akitas during training make sure to use a leash which is no longer than a half an inch in width.

Feeding Akitas

Akitas basically needs a meal with a combination of bone and meat. Commercial dog foods can be given to them as long as they are labeled “lite”. It is recommended that you blend in commercial dog food with fish, rice, wheat or poultry meat. A two spoonfuls of tuna would also make their canned foods taste better. This would prevent them from acquiring kidney diseases. Akita owners are advice against feeding your dogs with horse or beef meats, yellow corn or beets.