Common Health Issues in Akita Dogs: What Owners Should Know

The Japanese Akita puppy is a noble and proud breed with a rich history, but like many purebreds, it faces a range of health challenges commonly inherited through genetics. Understanding these health issues is vital for responsible ownership and ensuring your Akita lives a long, happy, and healthy life.

Akitas are known for their sensitivity to certain medications, particularly sedatives and tranquilizers. This sensitivity is thought to stem from a possible liver defect affecting toxin clearance, which makes anaesthetic procedures risky. Vets must therefore exercise caution when treating Akitas, balancing the need for necessary surgery with potential drug reactions.

Common Health Conditions in Akitas

1. Microcytosis

Microcytosis is a blood disorder characterised by unusually small red blood cells or imbalances in potassium levels within these cells. This condition can lead to anaemia, requiring close monitoring and veterinary care to manage symptoms and maintain health.

2. Gastric Torsion (Bloat)

Due to their deep, narrow chest shape, Akitas are predisposed to gastric torsion or bloat, a sudden and often fatal twisting of the stomach. Known as "Killer Bloat," it demands immediate veterinary attention. Watch for signs like a distended abdomen, restlessness, and attempts to vomit without bringing anything up.

3. Autoimmune Hypothyroidism

Over 50% of Akitas may develop autoimmune hypothyroidism, a condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing hormonal imbalances that affect metabolism and immune function. Symptoms include weight fluctuations, hyperactivity, seizures, aggression, and skin problems. Early diagnosis and lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy can improve quality of life.

4. Luxating Patella and Hip Dysplasia

These hereditary joint disorders affect an Akita's mobility. Luxating patella involves slipping kneecaps, while hip dysplasia affects the hip joints and sockets. Both conditions worsen with trauma and obesity. Preventative care includes avoiding excessive jumping, keeping your dog at a healthy weight, and sourcing puppies from breeders who conduct hip and patella screening tests.

5. Von Willebrand's Disease

This genetic bleeding disorder impairs clotting, making even minor injuries potentially serious. Signs include bleeding gums, nosebleeds, blood in urine or faeces, and excessive bruising. Blood testing by a vet can confirm the diagnosis, which may require intravenous plasma treatments during bleeding episodes.

6. Heat Sensitivity and Summer Stress

Akitas do not tolerate heat well due to their thick coats and physiological makeup. Warm weather can stress their internal thermostat, risking heatstroke. Provide fresh drinking water, shaded rest areas, and regular brushing to remove dead hair and help keep them cool during summer months.

7. Vestibular Syndrome

Typically affecting older Akitas, this syndrome causes loss of balance, head tilting, and circling. Symptoms may last up to three weeks and then resolve suddenly. If your dog shows such signs, seek veterinary advice promptly to rule out other neurological issues.

8. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is a hereditary disease leading to gradual vision loss. Regular eye check-ups can detect early changes, allowing you to plan care and support for your dog as vision deteriorates.

9. Myasthenia Gravis

This neuromuscular disorder causes muscle weakness and fatigue. While rare, recognising signs such as difficulty swallowing or weakness is important to seek timely veterinary assessment and management.

10. Sebaceous Adenitis and Other Skin Conditions

Akitas may suffer from sebaceous adenitis, an inflammatory disease affecting oil glands in the skin, resulting in hair loss and secondary infections. Good grooming, skin care, and veterinary treatment can alleviate symptoms.

Choosing a Reputable Akita Breeder

When looking for an Akita puppy, it is crucial to find reputable breeders who perform genetic screening for thyroid health, hip and patella conditions, and Von Willebrand's disease. Responsible breeders aim to reduce hereditary health risks by only breeding dogs free from these disorders, improving the chances of healthier puppies.

Keeping Your Akita Healthy

• Feed a high-quality diet suited to your Akita's age, size, and health status.
• Maintain regular weekly health checks, noting any unusual symptoms or behavioural changes.
• Arrange routine veterinary visits for screening tests and vaccinations.
• Create a calm, stress-free environment to promote overall well-being.
• Ensure your Akita stays cool during hot weather with plenty of water and shade.
• Limit high-impact activities that could cause joint trauma, especially in puppies and older dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Akitas be safely medicated despite their drug sensitivity?

Quick Answer: Akitas are sensitive to many drugs, particularly sedatives and anaesthetics, so vets must use caution and tailor medication carefully to avoid harmful effects.

Due to a suspected liver defect affecting toxin clearance, Akitas can react poorly to certain medications. Responsible vets usually adjust dosages, monitor reactions closely, and may choose alternative drugs to safely treat the dog. Inform your vet about your Akita’s breed to ensure the safest care.

How serious is bloat in Akitas?

Quick Answer: Bloat or gastric torsion is a potentially fatal emergency in Akitas requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Bloat happens when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. The Akita’s deep chest makes them particularly prone. Early symptoms are distressing and include a swollen abdomen and unsuccessful attempts to vomit. Rapid veterinary treatment improves survival chances.

What preventative measures can help avoid joint problems?

Quick Answer: Preventing joint disorders involves avoiding excessive jumping, maintaining a healthy weight, and buying puppies from breeders who screen for hip and patella health.

Both luxating patella and hip dysplasia have a genetic component but also worsen with trauma and obesity. Ensuring your Akita avoids risky physical activities and stays lean can reduce severity and improve mobility over time. Early diagnosis through breeder screening helps reduce incidence in puppies.

Is autoimmune hypothyroidism treatable?

Quick Answer: Yes, with early diagnosis hypothyroidism is manageable with lifelong thyroid hormone supplementation.

Symptoms can be subtle initially but recognizing weight changes, behavioural shifts and skin problems should prompt vet testing. Regular blood tests help monitor treatment efficacy. Most Akitas respond well with treatment improving their quality of life markedly.

What should I ask an Akita breeder before buying a puppy?

Quick Answer: Ask breeders about health screenings for thyroid disorders, hip and patella testing, Von Willebrand disease, and their breeding standards to ensure responsible practices.

Reputable breeders will be open about genetic tests performed and health clearances. They should provide documentation and lifetime support for new owners. This transparency helps reduce the risk of inheriting costly or painful health issues.

Conclusion

Akitas are magnificent companions whose strengths come with breed-specific health vulnerabilities. Awareness of hereditary and acquired health issues like autoimmune hypothyroidism, bloat, and joint disorders empowers owners to provide the best care possible. Partnering with responsible breeders, maintaining regular vet checks, and creating a healthy lifestyle setting are vital steps. By taking these measures, your Akita can enjoy a fulfilling life full of love and vitality.