Akita Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Akita, often called the Akita Inu or Japanese Akita, is a dignified, loyal spitz from the mountains of northern Japan. It has a fox-like face, a thick double coat and a tail curled over the back, and it is best known through the story of Hachiko.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in Akita Prefecture, where it was used for hunting large game and guarding. It is recognized as a national treasure in Japan. Akitas are large and sturdy, with a broad head, small erect ears, a thick double coat in red, white, brindle or sesame and a full, curled tail. The Japanese type is somewhat lighter and more fox-like than the American type.

Temperament

They are loyal, dignified and reserved. They are calm indoors and affectionate with family. They can be aloof with strangers and are often intolerant of other dogs, especially of the same sex. They are strong-willed. They dislike being left alone.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks and play. They are not endlessly energetic but need steady activity. They need secure fencing, and they should not be trusted off lead near other dogs or wildlife.

Training

They are intelligent but independent. Use positive, consistent methods and early, careful socialization. Avoid harsh corrections. Do not expect a reliable recall. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The double coat sheds heavily, with seasonal blowouts, and needs brushing several times a week. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave the coat. Trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Autoimmune diseases, including a skin condition called sebaceous adenitis
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Hereditary eye conditions, with exams
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs

Living with an Akita

They suit experienced, confident owners with a secure yard and no other dogs of the same sex. They do best with calm, consistent households. They are poorly suited to first-time owners, busy dog parks or homes with small pets.

A typical day

An Akita wants a morning walk, a long rest, family time and an evening outing. Many are quiet and watchful indoors.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy and strong-willed. Begin socialization, handling and training early. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a large dog, grooming tools and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well but overheat in hot weather. Provide shade, water and cool resting places. They travel well with a sturdy crate.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include poor socialization, trusting the dog around other dogs, shaving the coat and harsh training.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and thyroid testing and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents and see how they live. In some places, rescue Akitas are available.

Hachiko's loyalty

Hachiko was an Akita who, according to widely told accounts, waited for his late owner at Shibuya Station in Tokyo for years after the man died in the 1920s. A statue stands at the station today, and the story has been told in films. It reflects the loyalty many owners describe.

Japanese and American types

Many registries treat the Japanese Akita and American Akita as separate breeds, while others combine them. The Japanese type is smaller, with a fox-like face and restricted colors. For the larger, heavier type, see the American Akita.

Daily care checklist

• A steady walk with a sturdy lead.
• Brushing, daily during shedding seasons.
• Calm training and socialization practice.
• A check of fences and gates.
• Fresh water and a cool place to rest.

Is it the right breed for you?

An Akita suits experienced owners who want a quiet, loyal, dignified dog and can manage socialization and grooming. It may not suit first-time owners or multi-dog homes. For the larger type, see the American Akita.

The takeaway

Akitas are loyal, dignified and reserved, and they need experienced handling, socialization and grooming.