Akita Dog

Akita Dog

Akita Dog Characteristics: The loyal and alert Akita is a breed of large dog classified as a member of the working dog group and, due to its characteristics and qualities, demonstrated the desired traits of a hunting dog, fighter and guard dog. The origin of the Akita dog breed, fondly known by its nick name the "Most Venerated", was in Japan where it was developed in the 17th Century.

The Akita is a large, powerfully-built, muscular dog with a medium-length, thick double coat of varying colors. It is characterized by its large, broad, triangular head with small erect ears and small, almond-shaped, dark brown eyes. Another distinctive characteristic is its pointed muzzle and its long, curled, bushy tail curved over its back. The temperament of the Akita can be described as dignified, intelligent and courageous. There are Limitations of ownership of the Akita Inu in some USA States.

Fast Facts about the Akita Dog: The following facts provide fast information about the Akita dog breed. Breed Group: Working Dogs *** Size: Large *** Nick name: "Most Venerated" *** Origin: Japan *** Male Height: 26–28 inches (66–71 cm) *** Female Height: 24–26 inches (61–66 cm) *** Male Weight: 99–130 lbs (45–59 kg) *** Female Weight: 71–99 lbs (32–45 kg) *** Coat Type: Coarse and Straight *** Coat Colors: Cream, brown, gray, red, black and white *** Litter Size: 3-12 puppies *** Temperament: Responsive, Alert, Courageous *** Health Problems: Hip dysplasia, thyroid, and joint problems *** Lifespan: 10-12 years ***

Other names: The Akita is known by the nickname the "Most Venerated". Other names for this breed of dog include the American Akita, Japanese Akita, Akita Inu, Japanese Akita, Great Japanese Dog, Akita-ken, the Silent Hunter and the American Hunter. There are two distinct types of Akita - the Japanese Akita or Akita Inu and the American Akita. The Japanese Akita Inu, is shorter and less muscular than the American Akita.

Akita Breed Group and Dog Type - Working Dog Group: The Akita dog is one of the many breeds of dogs that belong to the Working Dog Group. Dogs in the Working Group were bred to perform a large variety of tasks, such as droving, pulling, hauling, hunting, herding, rescuing and guarding. The size and strength of the Akita made the dog highly suitable for these tasks and were highly valuable assets to their owners.

The Akita is also one of the many types of dog breeds that are referred to as a Spitz type of dog. The name 'spitz' does not refer to dogs of any one particular breed. It is a collective term for dogs from various breeds that have similar characteristics typified by a wolf-like appearance, a high carried tail and a pointed muzzle (the name 'Spitz' translates from the German word meaning 'Pointed or Sharp Point' in reference to the pointed muzzle and pointed ears).

Akita History and Origin: The country of origin of the Akita dog breed was in Japan. The name 'Akita' is taken from its place of origin in northwest Honshu, Japan. It is believed to be a close relative to the Matagi dog breed who were traditional winter hunters of the Tohoku region of northern Japan. The history of the Japanese Akita, or Akita Inu, dates back to ancient antiquity when the dog breed was bred specifically for hunting, as a war dog and for dog fighting.

The breed was developed in the 17th century to enhance its natural skills. As a hunting dog its double, thick coat and thickly padded paws and strong grip, were suited to a rough, rocky, cold terrains and harsh weather conditions. The Akita dog breed was used to hunt a variety of large animals such as the elk, antelope, wild boar, and the 800lb Yezo bear. It hunted its prey by by air scent, directing (or pointing) the hunter to the location of the animal.

Akita Modern History: The modern history of the Akita features Helen Keller who, on a trip to Japan, greatly admired the story of the loyalty of an Akita Inu called Hachiko. Helen Keller was given an Akita Inu called Kenzan-go which she took to America in 1938. Helen Keller described Kenzan-go as "trusty, gentle and companionable" and her love of the breed was emphasized when she called her dog "an Angel in fur". Its nickname, the "Most Venerated", refers to the high esteem the Japanese hold for the breed, which is considered as a living work of art in Japan.

Following WW2, many American service men brought the Akita Inu dog to the United States. The change of country resulted in a new name, the American Akita, which was Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1972. The history of the Akita moved on and it is now used as a family pet, companion, a Guard dog and a Show Dog. This dog can be dangerous and there are therefore Limitations of ownership of the Akita Inu in some USA States.

Akita Height: This breed is classified as a large sized dog. The height to the shoulder of a male dog is 26–28 inches (66–71 cm). The height to the shoulder of a female dog is 24–26 inches (61–66 cm).

Akita Weight: Not surprisingly for a large sized dog the weight of a male dog is 99–130 lbs (45–59 kg. The weight of the smaller female dog is 71–99 lbs (32–45 kg).

Akita Coat Type: This handsome dog breed has a double coat consisting of an outer coat and an undercoat. The outer coat is coarse, harsh and straight and stands off the body. The length of the outercoat is about 5 cms (2 ins) in length at rump and the withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades), slightly longer than on rest of body and has a profuse tail coat. The Undercoat is soft and dense.

Akita Coat Colors: The colors of this dog breed include any shade of cream, brown, gray, red, black, white, silver, or brindle (a tawny colour of animal fur, with streaks of other color). Many Akitas have a Melanistic Mask (a dark coloration of the skin or hair typically on the muzzle and face of the dog) because of a high concentration of melanin. N.B. The term "Red" refers to reddish shades of orange, brown, and tan colors.

Akita Litter Size: The litter size of this dog breed ranges from 3-12 puppies. Akita puppies for sale can be obtained reputable breeders and from rescue centers. The cost of Akita puppies varies depending on location, pedigree history and the dog breeder.

Akita Temperament and personality: The temperament and personality of this popular dog breed is described as Responsive, Alert, Courageous, Dignified, Intelligent and somewhat aloof. They are family friendly but are cautious and reserved with strangers. Akitas are solitary dogs as opposed to a pack dog, and tend to adopt a socially dominant role with other dogs.

Akita Exercise Requirements - MODERATE Exercise Requirements: The exercise requirements of this breed of dog are moderate. The Akita requires regular daily exercise consisting of approximately one to two hours each day. This powerful dog has a vigorous gait with strides of a moderate length requiring firm handling and a brisk walking or jogging speed by the owner to meet the dogs exercise requirements. This breed of dog should be kept on a leash and not be allowed to run freely due to its potential aggression towards other dogs. A large, enclosed yard will provide the opportunity for play and exercise at home.

Akita Grooming - MODERATE Grooming Needs: The grooming requirements of the Akita is fairly minimal, one grooming session per week is generally enough to maintain a healthy coat and reduce the risk of skin infections. Casual brushing is all that's generally required although more intense grooming and brushing is required during the shedding period, in order to remove dead hairs. Akitas enjoy self grooming to keep themselves clean. Grooming Requirements should include bathing the dog on a monthly basis and making regular inspections of the nails, teeth, eyes and ears.

Akita Diet: A fully grown Akita should be fed twice a day. A diet consisting of a premium dog food can be balanced with fresh food eaten by the family. The question is What Can Dogs Eat?. Check out our comprehensive list of what dogs can and what dogs cannot eat.

Akita Health Problems: Potential health problems of the Akita dog breed include Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Epilepsy, Entropion, Gastric Torsion, Patellar Luxation and Eye problems such as cataracts. Resolving health problems can prove to be expensive and it is always wise to obtain pet insurance or dog health insurance when buying a dog.

Akita Lifespan: The life expectancy of dogs vary according to the size, breed of dog and any serious health problems. The typical lifespan of the Akita dog breed is 10-12 years.

Akita Names (Male Dogs): Male Dog names are most often chosen to reflect favorite names of the owner or the strength, size, coloring and country of origin of the dog breed. To give you some inspiration regarding good male Akita names our small selection might be of help. Haruki *** Haruko *** Haruki *** Kana *** Keitaro *** Kashi *** Makoto *** Yoshi *** Kana *** Kuri *** Yoshi *** Mitsu *** Yukio.

Akita Names (Female Dogs): Female Dog names tend to be softer, prettier and reflect the temperament of the dog. Our top choice of good female Akita names are Amaya *** Emiko *** Sakura *** Mitsu *** Kaida *** Kata *** Shinju *** Keiko *** Kimi *** Masako.

Fast Facts about the Akita Dog: The following facts provide fast information about the Akita dog breed. Breed Group: Working Dogs *** Size: Large *** Nick name: "Most Venerated" *** Origin: Japan *** Male Height: 26–28 inches (66–71 cm) *** Female Height: 24–26 inches (61–66 cm) *** Male Weight: 99–130 lbs (45–59 kg) *** Female Weight: 71–99 lbs (32–45 kg) *** Coat Type: Coarse and Straight *** Coat Colors: Cream, brown, gray, red, black and white *** Litter Size: 3-12 puppies *** Temperament: Responsive, Alert, Courageous *** Health Problems: Hip dysplasia, thyroid, and joint problems *** Lifespan: 10-12 years ***

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