Akc American Akita: Intelligent Loyal and Clean Canine

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Posted Nov 2, 2024

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Credit: pexels.com, From above closeup of national symbol of USA paper money representing official seal with eagle with olive oil and arrow sitting on shield

The Akc American Akita is a loyal companion that's as intelligent as it is loving. They're known for their strong instincts and natural protective nature.

In fact, American Akitas are naturally wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence and loyalty make them quick to learn and respond to commands.

Their thick coats require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Regular brushing and occasional trimming will keep their beautiful coats looking their best.

With proper training and socialization, American Akitas can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to homes with yards. They're adaptable and loving, making them a great addition to many families.

A different take: Types of Akitas

Breed Characteristics

The American Akita is a breed that's not for the faint of heart. They're strong-willed and independent, requiring an experienced owner who can set clear boundaries.

Akitas are highly intelligent, but they can be stubborn at times. They respond best to respectful commands and positive-training techniques that rely on motivation.

Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind when considering bringing an American Akita into your family:

  • They don't do well with other pets.
  • They require daily exercise and a large yard to explore.
  • They form strong bonds with their owners, but can be aloof with strangers.

Akitas Are Intelligent

Credit: youtube.com, Are Akitas Smart? Dog Intelligence Test

Akitas are highly intelligent dogs that respond well to positive-training techniques. They're strong-willed and proud, so it's essential to use respectful commands and motivate them with rewards.

Akitas are not easy to train, and they require an experienced owner to set clear boundaries. They're intelligent and strong, so don't let their slightly less stubborn nature fool you into thinking they'll be a breeze to train.

Akitas are independent and sometimes aloof with strangers, but they form strong bonds with their owners. They're highly intelligent, which means they need mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

To keep your Akita happy and healthy, provide them with daily exercise and a large yard to explore. They're not suited for homes with other pets, so it's best to have them as the only furry family member.

Here are some key characteristics of Akitas that you should keep in mind when considering bringing one home:

  • Highly intelligent and strong-willed
  • Require experienced owners and positive-training techniques
  • Need daily exercise and mental stimulation
  • Not suited for homes with other pets

Distinguished by Size

Side view of young African American male freelancer working remotely on laptop sitting on wooden staircase near adorable Akita dog at home
Credit: pexels.com, Side view of young African American male freelancer working remotely on laptop sitting on wooden staircase near adorable Akita dog at home

The size difference between the Akita and Shiba Inu breeds is quite striking. The Akita is significantly larger, with males reaching 26 to 28 inches in height at the shoulder and weighing up to 130 pounds.

The Shiba Inu, on the other hand, stands at a much more modest 14.5 to 16.5 inches tall for males and 13.5 to 15.5 inches for females.

A male Akita can weigh up to 130 pounds, while the preferred weight for a male Shiba Inu is only 23 pounds.

The size difference is so pronounced that it's hard to imagine confusing the two breeds, even in a lineup of dogs.

Recommended read: How Big Do Akitas Get

Health and Genetics

Akitas are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most common health concerns for Akitas is hip dysplasia, which can lead to arthritis and mobility problems.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can be inherited from parents. It's essential to work with a reputable breeder who has had their breeding stock tested for hip dysplasia.

Readers also liked: A Picture of an Akita Dog

Credit: youtube.com, Akita - AKC Dog Breed Series

In addition to hip dysplasia, Akitas can also be prone to hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. This can lead to weight gain, skin problems, and other issues.

Hypothyroidism is often treated with medication, and with proper care, Akitas with this condition can live long, healthy lives.

Akitas can also be born with congenital cataracts, a condition that affects the lens of the eye. This can lead to vision problems and even blindness.

Other health concerns for Akitas include microcytosis, patellar luxation, retina dysplasia, vestibular syndrome, and sebaceous adenitis.

Here are some specific health concerns for Akitas:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Congenital cataracts
  • Microcytosis
  • Patellar luxation
  • Retina dysplasia
  • Vestibular syndrome
  • Sebaceous adenitis

Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage many of these health issues. By working with a reputable breeder and staying on top of your Akita's health, you can help ensure they live a long, happy life.

Unique Features

The Akc American Akita's unique features make them stand out from other breeds. Their trademark is the plush tail that typically curls over their back.

Each dog's tail is a one-of-a-kind identifier, making it easy to pick out an individual Akita in a group. Very few Akita tails look the same.

For more insights, see: American Bully Tail

The Breed's Trademark

From below of serious African American man in casual clothes walking on city street with Akita Inu and looking away in sunny day
Credit: pexels.com, From below of serious African American man in casual clothes walking on city street with Akita Inu and looking away in sunny day

The Breed's Trademark is quite distinctive, and it's something you can't miss. An Akita's plush tail is a dead giveaway of the breed, and it's usually curled over their back.

Each Akita's tail is uniquely shaped, making it a great way to identify individual dogs. Very few Akita tails look the same when you see a group of them.

They're Very Clean

Akitas are known for their cleanliness, often grooming themselves like a cat. They're usually very clean animals.

Housebreaking is usually not a problem for this breed.

Akitas Gain Energy Once the Weather

As the weather turns cooler, Akitas suddenly have a surge of energy. They seem to have a "turbo" button that switches on.

If there is snow on the ground, they'll stay out all day hunting small game in a securely fenced yard.

Choosing an Akita

If you're considering bringing an Akita into your family, it's essential to choose the right breed for you. Both the Japanese Akita Inu and the American Akita have unique characteristics that set them apart.

Credit: youtube.com, Akita - AKC Dog breed series

The main difference between the two breeds is their size, with the Japanese Akita Inu being slightly smaller. However, they both require a lot of space to roam and exercise.

To ensure you're prepared for the responsibilities that come with owning an Akita, it's crucial to have an experienced owner. Both breeds can be challenging to train due to their independent and stubborn nature.

The American Akita is slightly less stubborn than the Japanese Akita Inu, but don't let that fool you into thinking they're easy to train. They're intelligent and strong-willed, so you'll need to set clear boundaries to establish who's in charge.

If you're looking for a slightly smaller big dog for your home, the Japanese Akita Inu might be the perfect choice. However, they still need daily exercise and a large yard to explore.

Here are some key characteristics to consider when choosing an Akita:

  • Size: Japanese Akita Inu is slightly smaller
  • Exercise needs: Daily exercise and a large yard required
  • Training: Independent and stubborn, requires experienced owner
  • Compatibility: Not suitable for homes with other pets

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AKC recognize American Akita?

The AKC recognizes the Akita breed, but not the American Akita specifically, as the breed was recognized in 1972 under its original name. If you're looking for information on the American Akita, it's actually a variant of the Akita breed.

How much is an American Akita worth?

The cost of an American Akita puppy from a reputable breeder typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. Prices may vary depending on location and market demand.

Is there a difference between Akita and American Akita?

Yes, there is a difference between the Akita and American Akita, primarily in size, with the American Akita being slightly larger. Learn more about the unique characteristics of each breed.

What is the life expectancy of an American Akita?

The average lifespan of an American Akita is between 10 and 14 years, making them a long-lived breed. With proper care, your Akita can live a happy and healthy life for over a decade.

Sources

  1. AKC.TV (akc.tv)
  2. AKC Weekly Winners (akcwinners.com)
  3. AKC Club Governance and Issues Resources (.s3.amazonaws.com)
  4. AKC Humane Fund (akchumanefund.org)
  5. AKC.TV (akc.tv)
  6. AKC Rx (akcpetrx.com)
  7. AKC Weekly Winners (akcwinners.com)
  8. Akita Club of America (akitaclub.org)
  9. Watch Dog Shows (akc.tv)
  10. History of the Akita Breed (akitas.org)
  11. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/akita (petmd.com)
  12. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/akita (pdsa.org.uk)
  13. AKC.TV (akc.tv)
  14. AKC Rx (akcpetrx.com)
  15. AKC Weekly Winners (akcwinners.com)
  16. Akita Club of America (akitaclub.org)
  17. ancient Japanese breed (akitaclub.org)
  18. AKC Humane Fund (akchumanefund.org)

Shawna Welch

Writer

Shawna Welch is a versatile and engaging writer with a passion for exploring complex topics in an approachable way. With a keen interest in animal behavior, Shawna has developed a niche expertise in canine behavioral issues, shedding light on common problems and offering actionable advice for pet owners. Her writing style is characterized by clarity, empathy, and a commitment to accuracy, making her a trusted voice in the field.