Akita Dog Breed Facts
1. AKC Group:
The American Kennel Club classifies the Akita as a Working dog.
2. Size & Weight:
Males are 75 to 120 pounds and
stand 26 to 28 inches high. 
Females weigh 75 to 110 pounds and stand
24 to 26 inches high.
3. Coat:
Akita's have double coats. The outer coat is harsh and waterproof and the inner coat is thick and soft.
4. Head & Muzzle:
The head of the Akita is heavy, broad, flat, and shaped like a triangle. The muzzle is short and strong.
5. Body:
The Akita has a powerful, solid, well-proportioned, distinctive body.
6. Colors:
They can have coats of white, red, sesame and brindle.
7. Life Expectancy:
The average life expectancy is 10 to12 years.
8. Popularity:
They are a moderately popular dog.
9. Habitat:
The Akita is a good indoor or outdoor dog.
Akita Dog Breed -- Dog Breed Origins
1. Country of Origin:
Akita's originated in Japan.
2. Lineage:
They are a cross between the Akita inu and the German Shepherd.
3. Date Admitted to AKC:
They were admitted to the AKC on December 12, 1972.
4. Historical Information:
The Akita is the largest of the Japanese Spitz-type breeds. They are native to the island Honshu in Akita, Japan. They are considered the national dog of Japan. They were first brought to the USA by Helen Keller.
Akita Dog Breed -- Dog Breed Defining Characteristics
1. Training Ease:
Obedience training requires patience because the Akita gets bored quickly.
2. Temperament:
The Akita is faithful and thrives on companionship.
3. Child Friendly:
They get along well with children they are familiar with, but may not accept other children.
4. Behavior:
They are affectionate, courageous, and intelligent.
5. Habits:
The Akita does not easily accept people outside of their family.
Akita Dog Breed -- Dog Breed Concerns
· Health Issues:
They are prone to hip dysplasia, thyroiditis, immune diseases, skin problems, and knee problems.
· Feeding:
The Akita requires a good quality meat and bone based food.
· Exercise Needs:
Akita's need regular exercise to stay in shape.
· Grooming Needs:
Regular brushing with a firm bristle brush is required. They should only be bathed when absolutely necessary, because it removes the coats natural water-proofing.
· Special Household Needs:
They need a yard with a fence, a kennel, pans, a bed, food,
a leash, and a collar. 
· Travel Needs:
A car seat is needed when traveling and a leash for walks in public.
· Getting Along With Other Pets:
The Akita is very aggressive with other pets. They should always be supervised and leashed when around other animals.
Akita Dog Breed -- How to Choose your Dog Breed
· What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:
They should not have a nose without pigmentation, broken ears, an uncurled tail, or stand less than 25 inches high.
· What you will need for a New Puppy:
A new puppy needs a fenced yard, a kennel, a pan, a leash, and a collar.
· Puppy-Proofing Your House:
Akita's should be kept away from small and valuable objects.
· How to make your New Puppy Feel at Home:
Akita's do not like to be alone. They need lots of love, patience, and time to play outdoors.
