The American Akita is a large and powerful breed known for its loyalty, courage, and striking appearance. Originating in Japan, the American Akita has a rich history and distinct characteristics that set it apart from its Japanese counterpart. This article will explore the history, temperament, health, and care requirements of the American Akita, providing you with valuable insights into this majestic breed.
History of the American Akita
Japanese Origins
The American Akita shares its ancestry with the Japanese Akita Inu, a breed with ancient roots in Japan. The Akita Inu was bred for hunting large game like bear, wild boar, and deer and was also used as a guardian dog for royalty. In the early 20th century, efforts to preserve the breed’s purity led to its designation as a natural monument in Japan.
Development in the United States
During World War II, Akitas in Japan were nearly wiped out due to military requisitions. After the war, American soldiers brought Akitas back to the United States, where the breed began to develop along different lines. American breeders favored a larger and more imposing dog, leading to the emergence of the American Akita.
Establishment of Breed Standards
The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the American Akita as a separate breed in 1972. The breed standard for the American Akita differs from the Japanese Akita Inu, particularly in size, coat color, and head shape. Today, both the American and Japanese Akita are recognized as distinct breeds by various kennel clubs worldwide.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Weight
American Akitas are large and powerful dogs. Males typically stand 26–28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 100–130 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, measuring up to 26 inches tall and weighing 80–100 pounds. In comparison, the Japanese Akita is significantly smaller, with a weight difference of roughly 30 pounds.
Coat and Color
The American Akita has a thick double coat that provides insulation in various weather conditions. They come in various colors, including black, white, chocolate, brindle, and pinto. The undercoat is dense and plush, while the outer coat is short. While the Japanese Akita standard prefers white, red, and brindle colors, American Akitas can have a black mask marking, which is popular in the US.
Distinctive Features
The American Akita has a broad head, a blunt triangle shape, with small, triangular eyes that are predominantly dark brown. Their ears are erect and point forward. Their tail is thick and curled over their back.
Temperament and Personality
Loyalty and Protective Instincts
American Akitas are renowned for their loyalty and strong protective instincts. They are devoted to their families and will fiercely guard them against perceived threats. This makes them excellent watchdogs, but it also means they require careful socialization and training.
Reserved Nature with Strangers
American Akitas are typically reserved and wary of strangers. They may observe newcomers from a distance before deciding whether to approach them. This aloofness with strangers is a natural part of their temperament and should not be misinterpreted as aggression.
Independence and Willfulness
American Akitas are known for their independence and strong will. They are intelligent dogs who can learn quickly, but their independent nature can make training challenging. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement methods are crucial when training an American Akita.
Affectionate with Family
Despite their reserved nature with strangers, American Akitas are affectionate and loving with their families. They enjoy spending time with their loved ones and may exhibit playful and goofy behavior at home. Some owners describe their Akitas as “talking” due to their tendency to grunt, moan, and mumble, seemingly expressing their opinions or desires.
Mouthing Behavior
American Akitas have a unique tendency to mouth or carry objects as a form of communication. They may gently mouth their owners’ hands or carry toys or other items to express their needs. This behavior is not typically aggressive but rather an endearing trait of the breed.
Training and Socialization
Importance of Early Socialization
Early socialization is crucial for American Akitas to help them develop into well-adjusted dogs. Exposing them to various people, animals, and environments from a young age can prevent fear and aggression toward unfamiliar situations or individuals.
Positive Reinforcement Methods
American Akitas respond best to positive reinforcement training methods. Harsh or punitive techniques are likely to make them stubborn or even aggressive. Using rewards, praise, and play to motivate them during training will yield better results.
Challenges with Other Dogs
American Akitas can be dominant and territorial, especially toward other dogs of the same sex. Introducing them to other dogs carefully and under supervision is essential. It’s generally not recommended to take an American Akita to dog parks, where their aggression toward other dogs could pose a problem.
Lead Training and Hunting Instinct
American Akitas have a strong prey drive. They may chase small animals, so it’s crucial to keep them on a leash when walking in areas where they could encounter potential prey. Thorough leash training is essential to manage their strength and prevent them from pulling.
Living Conditions
Indoor vs. Outdoor Living
American Akitas are best suited to living indoors with their families. They are not hyperactive dogs, but they do need daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Exercise Needs
American Akitas require moderate exercise. A daily walk or jog, along with playtime in a securely fenced yard, will help them stay physically and mentally fit. However, they are not typically well-suited for dog sports due to their independent nature and lack of patience for repetitive tasks.
Suitability for Apartments
While American Akitas can adapt to apartment living, they are generally happier with more space. If living in an apartment, owners must ensure their Akita receives sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Health and Care
Common Health Issues
While American Akitas are generally a healthy breed, they are prone to certain health conditions. Some of the most common health issues include:
- Hip Dysplasia: An inherited condition that affects the hip joint.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): A life-threatening condition that can occur in large, deep-chested dogs.
- Hypothyroidism: A disorder of the thyroid gland that can cause various symptoms, including skin problems and lethargy.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of eye diseases that can lead to blindness.
- Sebaceous Adenitis (SA): A genetic skin condition that affects the sebaceous glands, leading to dry, scaly skin and hair loss.
- Skin and Hair Diseases: Akitas can be prone to various skin and hair conditions, often exacerbated by dietary issues.
Rapid Growth in Puppies
American Akita puppies grow rapidly, which can put a strain on their developing bones and joints. It’s essential to provide them with a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding to prevent skeletal problems.
Importance of Diet
Diet plays a crucial role in the health of an American Akita. Feeding a high-quality diet with appropriate protein, fat, and fiber content can help prevent skin problems and maintain overall well-being. It’s recommended to avoid foods containing excessive amounts of grain, soy, or crude protein, as these can trigger allergic reactions and skin issues.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of an American Akita is 10–15 years.
Grooming
Double Coat and Shedding
American Akitas have a double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. They experience heavy shedding periods twice a year, during which they lose a significant amount of fur. Regular brushing is necessary to remove loose hair and prevent mats and tangles.
Brushing and Bathing Routine
Weekly brushing is recommended to keep the Akita’s coat healthy and minimize shedding. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing is necessary to manage the increased hair loss. Akitas only need bathing every three months or so unless they get particularly dirty.
Nail Trimming and Ear Cleaning
Regular nail trimming is important to prevent overgrowth and potential discomfort. Ear cleaning is also necessary to prevent infections.
Feeding
Recommended Daily Amount
The amount of food an American Akita needs will vary based on their age, activity level, and metabolism. It’s essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate daily food intake for your dog.
High-Quality Proteins and Healthy Fats
American Akitas requires a diet rich in high-quality proteins for muscle development and repair. Sources like chicken, beef, fish, and lamb are excellent options. Healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are also essential for a healthy coat and skin.
Importance of Fiber and Avoiding Certain Ingredients
Fiber is important for digestion and intestinal health. Vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are good sources of fiber. It’s advisable to avoid feeding American Akita’s foods high in grain, soy, or excessive crude protein.
Fixed Mealtimes
Establishing fixed mealtimes and avoiding free feeding can help prevent bloat and encourage healthy eating habits.
American Akita vs Japanese Akita
Key Differences in Appearance
The most notable difference between the American Akita and Japanese Akita is size. American Akitas are significantly larger and heavier than their Japanese counterparts. Additionally, American Akitas have a wider range of acceptable coat colors, including pinto and black mask markings, which are not allowed in the Japanese Akita standard.
Historical Divergence
The two Akita types diverged after World War II due to breeding practices in the United States and Japan. American breeders favored a larger and more imposing dog, while Japanese breeders aimed to preserve the original Akita Inu type.
Temperament and Suitability
While both Akita types share core temperament traits like loyalty and protectiveness, subtle differences may exist in their personalities. The choice between an American Akita and a Japanese Akita depends on individual preferences and lifestyle.
Finding a Reputable Breeder or Rescue Organization
Importance of Ethical Breeding Practices
If you decide to purchase an American Akita puppy, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Responsible breeders conduct health screenings on their breeding dogs to minimize the risk of genetic health issues in puppies.
Resources for Adoption
Adopting an American Akita from a rescue organization or shelter is a wonderful way to provide a loving home for a dog in need. Many Akitas end up in shelters through no fault of their own, and they can make loving and devoted companions.
Conclusion
The American Akita is a majestic and loyal breed that can bring immense joy to the right owner. They are intelligent, courageous, and protective dogs who thrive in a loving and structured environment. Potential owners must understand the breed’s specific needs, including their strong will, exercise requirements, and potential health concerns. With proper training, socialization, and care, the American Akita can be a devoted and rewarding companion for many years
