American Akita Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The American Akita is a large, powerful spitz with a broad, bear-like head, a heavy build and a protective, loyal nature. It descends from Akitas brought to the United States after the Second World War, and it has become a separate type from the Japanese Akita.

Origins and appearance

American servicemen stationed in Japan took home Akitas, and breeders in the United States developed a larger, heavier dog. In several countries the two types are now separate breeds. American Akitas are large and heavily boned, with a broad head, small erect ears, a double coat in any color, including pinto, and a full tail carried over the back. Many have a black mask.

Temperament

They are loyal, protective and dignified. They are calm indoors and devoted to family. They are reserved with strangers and often dominant with other dogs. They are strong-willed. They dislike being left alone and need careful socialization.

Exercise

An American Akita needs a daily walk of an hour or so and mental stimulation, not endless activity. Because these dogs can be reactive with other dogs, walks are best on a sturdy lead in controlled areas. Cold weather often suits them, while heat calls for early or late outings.

Training

Akitas are intelligent but self-reliant, and they respond poorly to force. Start training in puppyhood, use rewards and keep rules consistent. Practice calm greetings, teach release cues for toys and food, and avoid situations that invite conflict with other dogs. A qualified trainer is a wise investment.

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
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Autoimmune diseases, including thyroiditis and a skin condition
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Hereditary eye conditions, with exams
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs

Living with an American Akita

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

A typical day

An American 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 bear-like 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 very 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

Typical mistakes include skipping early socialization, letting the dog meet strange dogs head-on, shaving the coat, giving too much freedom and underestimating the dog's size. Others assume a quiet dog needs no training.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask breeders for hip, eye and thyroid test results, and ask about temperament in the line. Avoid sellers who emphasize aggression. Adult dogs from rescues may need careful assessment, so work with experienced rescuers.

Size and presence

An American Akita can weigh well over a hundred pounds, and its presence alone deters many strangers. That size makes training, handling and veterinary care more demanding, and owners need strength, calm and consistency.

Breed-specific rules

Some cities and housing providers restrict certain large breeds or add conditions for them. Check local laws and insurance policies before you bring a dog home, because rules vary and can change.

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 American Akita suits experienced owners who want a large, loyal and protective dog and can commit to socialization and training. It may not suit first-time owners or multi-dog homes. For the lighter type, see the Akita.

The takeaway

American Akitas are large, loyal and protective, and they need experienced handling, socialization and grooming.