Japanese Akita temperament and training guide

The Japanese Akita is a large dog breed from the Spitz grouping, originating in Japan. Known for their dignified and loyal nature, Akitas have a rich history including roles in guarding, hunting, and home protection. The breed’s near extinction during World War Two led to revival efforts that have kept the Akita well regarded today.

Many are drawn to the Akita for its strong bond with family and impressive appearance, but potential owners should approach this breed with careful consideration. The Japanese Akita puppies require experienced handling, as their temperament and training needs can present challenges. Within the UK, Akitas are frequently surrendered due to management difficulties, making thorough research essential before deciding to bring one home.

This guide offers detailed insights into the Japanese Akita’s temperament and step-by-step training considerations to foster a healthy relationship between dog and owner.

General temperament traits of the Japanese Akita

Akitas are known for their loyalty and protective nature, often forming deep bonds with their immediate family. They exhibit a dignified and noble temperament, typically reserved with strangers but affectionate with their pack.

• Loyalty and protection: Akitas fiercely protect their family and territory, making them excellent watchdogs.
• Independence and intelligence: They are intelligent and display strong independence which requires consistent leadership to manage.
• Territorial and dominant tendencies: This breed can be territorial and dominant, often preferring to be the only pet in the household.
• Socialisation needs: Early and ongoing socialisation is crucial to prevent unnecessary aggression towards strangers and other animals.

Note: While the Japanese Akita isn’t restricted under UK law, some countries do have specific legislation due to their guarding instincts, so it’s vital to understand local regulations before acquisition.

Akitas in domestic life

At home, Japanese Akitas generally remain quiet and clean, not prone to messiness or destruction. However, due to their size and energy levels, they require ample exercise—at least two hours daily in walks or active play—to maintain health and prevent boredom-related behaviours.

Akitas’ strong guarding instincts mean they are naturally territorial about their home and garden, which can pose challenges during introductions with visitors or during walks. Responsible ownership involves supervision and control in communal spaces.

Training fundamentals for your Japanese Akita

Step 1: Establish consistent leadership

The Akita requires a firm, consistent handler who can be acknowledged as the pack leader. Without clear leadership, they might try to take dominance, leading to behaviour that can be difficult to manage.

Step 2: Begin early socialisation

Expose your Akita puppy to varied environments, people, animals, and experiences from an early age. This early socialisation is essential to foster a confident, well-adjusted adult dog. Controlled introductions help reduce fear and anxiety.

Step 3: Use positive reinforcement training

Train with consistency using positive methods such as treats, praise, and play. Clear boundaries and consistent rules support good behaviour and prevent confusion.

Step 4: Focus on basic commands

Start training with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Use short training sessions to keep your dog engaged and reinforce learning gradually.

Step 5: Leash training and controlled walks

Introduce collar and leash early to build good walking habits. Because of their strong will and strength, leash control is essential for public safety and social interactions.

Step 6: Stimulate mental and physical activity

Engage their intelligence with varied walks, new activities, and toys. This breed thrives on mental challenges as well as physical exercise to prevent boredom.

Step 7: Ongoing training commitment

Training an Akita is a lifelong commitment. Regularly refresh commands and socialisation, and be mindful of your own mood to maintain a positive training environment.

Akitas and interaction with others

Japanese Akitas are naturally wary of strangers, so introductions must be managed carefully. Visitors should meet the dog in a controlled environment, and public approaches to your Akita should always be supervised.

With other dogs, the Akita is known for dominance and may be intolerant, especially toward dogs of the same gender. Owners should exercise caution when walking around other dogs and avoid off-lead play in areas where aggressive conflicts could arise.

Conclusion

The Japanese Akita is a noble and loyal breed best suited to experienced owners who understand their unique temperament and training needs. Early socialisation, firm leadership, and ongoing positive training are vital for a harmonious home life. Choosing this breed should be a carefully considered decision to ensure safety and happiness for both owner and dog.