Akita Puppies

Akitas are alert, dignified, and courageous. They're fairly friendly and are very affectionate and loving with family members, but have a tendency to be hesitant around strangers. This breed has a variable temperament and requires experienced handling. Akitas can become aggressive and willful if not trained properly, so it's important to set boundaries and rules for an Akita during puppyhood. This breed isn't inherently good with children, but they can get along with them if carefully socialized. Because training an Akita can be somewhat difficult, they're not recommended for first-time dog owners. With the right owner, the Akita makes an outstanding pet and loyal guardian of the family.

A healthy Akita will live for about 10 to 12 years, which is fairly long for a large dog breed. However, they are prone to certain health conditions like elbow dysplasia, arthritis, and hypothyroidism.

The Akita's energy level is on the higher side, but not extreme. These dogs need mental and physical exercise on a daily basis, and they should also be given time to run freely in a safe, enclosed area.

Akitas require more grooming than average, so be sure to brush them at least once a week. These dogs shed their undercoats twice a year, so you should spend extra time on grooming during those periods. Like all dogs, Akitas should be bathed when necessary and should have regular teeth brushings.

Akitas don't shed a ton throughout the year, but you can expect heavier shedding during seasonal shedding seasons. These dogs groom themselves like cats do, which minimizes the amount of fur they shed. Akitas are not considered hypoallergenic.

Akitas have a thick, fuzzy double coat that can be a variety of different colors. These dogs have a large head, broad muzzle, and pointy ears. Akitas' coats don't shed a lot during the year, but shedding becomes heavy once or twice a year.

The Akita originated in Akita, Japan and was originally developed in the 19th century as a watchdog and hunting dog. It is believed that the Akita was brought to the United States by Helen Keller, who took a liking to the breed after visiting Japan. After World War II, the Akita's popularity began to grow, as American servicemen who were stationed in Japan brought more Akitas to the United States. Over time, the American Akita started to evolve into a stronger, more robust dog than the Japanese Akita. The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1972.