Temperament:
Akitas are intelligent, courageous, strong-willed and independent. Akitas can make good family dogs if trained and disciplined firmly. Akita's are aggressive and dominant towards other dogs, but they make good watchdogs. Akitas need an experienced and dominant owner who is able to watch and maintain the temperament of this breed.
Click here on how to stop your Akita's behavior problems

Grooming:
Akitas have thick coats that shed twice yearly and at these times regular brushing is necessary to remove the dead hairs. The coat requires grooming to bring out the best in it.

Exercise:
Akita's require a lot of exercise, with their muscular bodies and need a firm hand when being walked in public.

Feeding:
Akitas need feeding to maintain their bulk, but are not greedy.

History:
Theses dogs are also called Japanese Akitas or Akita Inus. This breed got it's name the Akita Prefecture in the northern Japanese province of Honshu – and the word 'Inu' means dog in Japanese. Originally Akita's were used to hunt deer, bear and wild boar and became what was expected in a competent ferocious watchdog. As they excelled in this area, they also became used for dog fighting. However, the Japanese Government banned this activity and the Akita's reputation has been upgraded when it was named the National Dog of Japan.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Powerful, muscular and impressive.
Color: All colors.
Coat: The outercoat is harsh and stiff with the undercoat being soft and dense.
Tail: Thick, carried high and is curved over the back of the dog. The hair is slightly longer on the tail.
Ears: Small, upright and triangular.
Body: Broad and deep chested. The neck is thick and muscular. The back is straight and the ribs are well rounded.

Additional Comments:

• Akita's are not always an ideal family dog unless raised in a firm manner and environment.
• Akitas attract people with their brilliant color schemes that vary from dog to dog.
• Rather than asking, “Is this dog right for me?” the question should be, “Am I the person for the dog?