No need for a security system if you have an Akita at home. Here’s all you need to know about these loving guard dogs.
If you’ve ever seen an Akita, you know that this is a gorgeous, stately breed with thick fur and a curly tail. These beauties will be your sentries on duty at all times with their quiet attentiveness and genuine concern for your safety.
The Akita breed certainly isn’t all work and no play, however. These Japanese pups are playful and affectionate with their humans when they’re feeling secure.
Why We Love the Akita Breed
- As mentioned previously, Akita dogs live to love and protect their families. These large, powerful companions will safeguard you from anyone with ill intent.
- An Akita’s fur keeps it from having a smell, which makes this a pleasant breed to have indoors. These pups will actually groom themselves like a cat! You’ll still need to help out in that department with a few baths, but at least they’re trying.
- If you love kisses and cuddles, the Akita breed could be for you. Extreme levels of affection are coming your way if you adopt one of these big babies.
Things to Consider
- That thick, odorless coat sheds heavily — especially twice yearly when they lose their undercoats. Get your grooming brushes ready!
- All breeds need proper socialization, but Akita puppies need a little extra effort in this department. Because they are so protective and loyal, they can sometimes be wary of outside people and animals.
- An Akita is never more miserable than when it’s being ignored. Prepare to give this dog an above average amount of attention or it could act out.
Why Rescue?
Without proper training and socialization, an Akita’s protectiveness can lead to undesirable behavioral traits, causing some owners, especially those with small children, to surrender these pups. Irresponsible breeding of Akita dogs can multiply and worsen health issues that the breed is predisposed to, such as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia and arthritis. If you’re considering bringing an Akita into your home, welcome a rescue instead of shopping at a breeder!
