Akitas are a distinctive-looking breed that has many names such as the Akita Inu, Akita-ken, and Japanese Akita. Akitas are superb watch and guard dogs. The Akita activity level is extremely low. Their lifespan is pretty long with a maximum of 15 years. They’re quick-witted, intelligent, and keen to learn. The Akita colors are usually a mish-mash of light red and pure white, and more precise colors like fawn, sesame, and light burgundy is often cited. Akita colors are unique. Their double-layer, dual coats are waterproof and great in bitter, biting cold. An undercoat rests under a thick outer coat.
The American Akita is often bred with the Akita Inu to produce a stronger specimen, and the American Akita is just heavier and has pinto coloring. Inu is Japanese for dog, and they hail from Japan. A deep brown mimics pinto, and it’s the best way to describe it.
The Akita can eventually develop social problems if they’re left alone too long. Akitas are pack dogs, and they like to be dominant too. Moderate exercise is required, and they shouldn’t be teased because it corrupts their great guard dog abilities. Akitas are protectors of children and great family dogs, but they should be well accustomed to the owner’s family because strangers are a no-no to them. They prefer modest lifestyles. They only bark when the occasion summons it. In other words, no extraneous, frivolous, or unnecessary barking is likely to occur with a well-developed, well-treated, and well-fed Akita dog. Be wary of the Akita's boredom because it can spill over into problems for the dog’s mental health. Attachment to owner is common, and it’s important to spend a lot of time with them because they’re not used to being alone for very long. Since they’re in the group pack dog category, Akitas prefer the contact of other dogs they know well and especially their owner.
Long before many dogs came on the scene, the Akita was there as one of the most long-standing breeds. Akitas were used to hunt bears, guard emperors, and even take care of children by assuring that no one harmed them. Rumor has it that Japanese mothers made sure that the Akita Inu guarded their children when they had to leave the abode. Since the Akita came from Japan, it was greatly diminished in the aftermath of WWII. In fact, there were less than two-dozen left because army soldiers were commanded and ordered to use their fur for warmth. Helen Keller, after WWII, visited the Japanese islands and was given an Akita puppy. It publicized the popular appeal of Akitas, and the breed was quickly resurrected.
In the words of a famous Japanese Akita owner, the Akita is the greatest of all dogs because it gives its coat for warmth, guards the children, and protects men from danger. Akitas are well-revered for these beneficent characteristics.
