10 Essential Facts About Akita Dogs Before Buying

The Akita is a large, striking dog breed famed for its confident presence and loyal nature. Recognised for their thick double coats and dignified posture, Akitas are powerful dogs, with males weighing between 39-59kg and standing 66-71cm tall, and females slightly smaller. Their appearance includes a broad chest, large triangular head, upright ears, and coat colours ranging from white to brindle and pinto.

This majestic breed moves with strength and fluency, carrying themselves with an assured and balanced gait.

In the UK, the Akita ranks among popular large breeds, but due to their temperament and care needs, they require an experienced owner. This guide shares ten important facts to consider before deciding to add an Akita to your family.

1. Two Distinct Akita Variants

There are two main types of Akita dogs: the Japanese Akita Inu and the American Akita. The American Akita is generally larger with a broader head, whereas the Japanese variant tends to be more refined in appearance, but both are strong, loyal dogs with similar care needs.

2. Spitz Dog Heritage

Akitas belong to the spitz family, sharing traits like erect, pointed ears, curled tails, and thick, layered fur designed for colder climates. Their double coats provide insulation but require regular grooming.

3. Heavy Seasonal Shedding

Akitas shed heavily year-round, with intense shedding periods during spring and autumn when they "blow their coat." Managing this shedding demands consistent grooming, including brushing several times a week during heavy shedding seasons.

4. Expense of Ownership

Being a large breed, Akitas require more substantial amounts of food, larger collars, bedding, and accessories, which increases costs. Veterinary bills, including insurance and possible surgeries, tend to be higher for large dogs. Prospective owners should budget approximately £105 per month for upkeep and consider the lifetime costs exceeding £17,000.

5. High Prey Drive

Akitas display a strong natural prey drive, common in spitz breeds. They may chase small animals such as cats, rabbits, and local wildlife, so responsible containment and supervision are essential to ensure safety for all pets and neighbours.

6. Excellent Guard Dogs

The breed is naturally territorial and vigilant, making them superb watchdogs. Akitas will patrol their home areas attentively and deter unwelcome visitors, but early socialisation is vital to prevent unwarranted aggression toward guests or other animals.

7. Dominance Tendencies

Akitas are confident and assertive, which can lead to dominant behaviours if not properly managed. Clear, consistent training that establishes the owner as the pack leader is essential to foster good manners and prevent issues with obedience or aggression.

8. Exercise Requirements

They benefit from at least two hours of varied daily exercise, including walks and playtime that allow both on-lead and off-lead exploration. A sedentary lifestyle is unsuitable; without regular activity, Akitas can become bored or develop behavioural problems.

9. Average to Low Canine Intelligence

Ranked 104th of 138 breeds for intelligence, Akitas are less eager learners compared to some breeds. Training may require patience and repetition, but with consistent effort, they can master essential commands and form strong bonds.

10. Need For Experienced Owners

Due to their size, strength, and complex temperament, Akitas are best suited for confident, experienced owners familiar with handling dominant and protective dogs. Proper socialisation and training from a young age are necessary to ensure a happy, well-behaved companion.

Choosing an Akita should come from informed and responsible decisions. When cared for correctly, they reward their families with loyalty and affection, becoming devoted lifelong friends.