I saw someone submit an ask about an Akita as a first-time big dog, so I thought I would pop in with a picture of my baby and a little tidbit of advice for potential Akita owners. This is Yokai (named long before Yokai Watch – I hear that all the time now) and she’s eight-and-a-half years young and is a purebred Akita, although she is a tad on the smaller size for her breed. She loves hiking, beef treats, and her Coca-cola bear toy.
Let me tell you all firsthand, Akitas are incredibly smart, goofy, beautiful dogs who would gladly take a bullet for those they love. These dogs are so incredibly loyal and literally never forget anything. She is the most amazing and beautiful (both in body and soul) dog I’ve ever owned.
However, that comes with a price. Yokai sheds literally constantly – she’s like a walking blizzard of white undercoat. Akitas need constant, and I mean constant grooming and upkeep. Daily brushing and we give her a bath once a month with an anti-shed doggy shampoo in order to keep her hair in check, and if she still brushes against my black work pants on my way out the door I’m doomed to waste at least two lint-roller sheets… and that’s just her fur.
Akitas need persistent and dedicated training from a VERY young age in order to be what society would describe as a “good dog.” Akitas are incredibly dominant, stubborn, and standoffish. They were bred to be guard dogs, and that streak of aggressiveness and territorial instinct has never left their blood. Food agressiveness needs to be handled and prevented as a puppy and constantly monitored and kept in check. They need to be around dogs CONSTANTLY when they are young or they can become aggressive just being near other dogs. Strange people are the same; constant interaction and getting them used to strangers at a young age is key or they might become very shy and wary of strangers… And unfortunately, this breed is pretty quick on the draw with a growl and a snap if someone does something they don’t like.
Akitas like their personal time and space – they may cuddle and love you and be playful, but when they are done and want to lay down by themselves or chew on their toy or eat, you need to let them. Try and take away their “alone time” and again, they can become irritable and aggressive. Akitas are extremely sensitive and do not like being scolded. Never let an Akita stay in a situation that is stressful for them, because they do not handle it well and are quicker to become agitated and aggressive.
Tl;dr, Akitas are a lot of work, emotionally and physically. Sensitive, prone to weird moods, shy, and inherently stand-offish, these are not dogs for beginners or someone who plans to not be around a lot while they are young. These aren’t golden retrievers (bless their sweet little angel souls). These dogs need work and time and patience, but the reward of such is a truly amazing, loyal, silly, intelligent dog who would literally die to please you. Not to mention they are also super cute and gorgeous at full size. 😉
Sorry for long post! There need to be more accurate information about the responsibilities of an Akita out there in the world. If any other Akita-owners see something misrepresented or inaccurate about my post please feel free to let me know (in a civilized manner, please)!