Akita Inu: A Loyal And Powerful Breed

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When it comes to dog breeds, the Akita Inu is one that stands out from the rest. Originating from Japan, this breed is known for its loyalty, power, and unique personality. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Akita Inu, from its history to its care and grooming.

Breed Characteristics of Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a large dog breed that can weigh up to 130 pounds and stand up to 28 inches tall. They have a powerful and muscular build, with a thick double coat that can come in a variety of colors including white, brindle, and red. Their ears are small and erect, and their tails curl up and over their backs.

One of the most distinct features of the Akita Inu is their facial expression. They have a broad forehead and small, triangular eyes that give them a confident and intelligent look. They are known for their quiet and calm demeanor, but also have a fierce protectiveness over their family.

Akita Inus are intelligent and trainable, but also have an independent streak. They require an experienced owner who can establish themselves as the alpha and provide consistent training and socialization.

Highlights about Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a highly respected breed in Japan, known for their bravery and loyalty. They were originally bred as hunting and guard dogs, and were also used in dogfighting competitions. However, the breed has since evolved into a beloved companion animal.

Akita Inus have been featured in popular culture, including the 2009 movie “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale,” which tells the true story of a loyal Akita Inu named Hachiko who waited for his owner at a train station every day for nine years after his owner’s death.

History of Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a breed that dates back to ancient Japan. They were originally bred as hunting dogs and were used to hunt large game such as wild boar and bear. The breed was also used as a guard dog, protecting their owners and property from intruders.

During World War II, the Japanese government ordered all non-military dogs to be killed for food due to a shortage of resources. However, a group of dedicated Akita Inu owners worked to preserve the breed by hiding their dogs and breeding them in secret. After the war, the breed was officially recognized by the Japanese government and has since become a beloved breed around the world.

Size of Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a large dog breed, with males weighing between 100-130 pounds and females weighing between 70-100 pounds. They can stand up to 28 inches tall at the shoulder, making them one of the larger dog breeds. It’s important to note that due to their size and strength, they require a strong and experienced owner who can properly handle them.

Personality of Akita Inu

Akita Inus are known for their loyalty and devotion to their family. They are quiet and calm dogs, but also have a strong protectiveness over their loved ones. They can be reserved around strangers and have a natural wariness towards other dogs, which is why proper socialization and training is crucial.

Akita Inus are highly intelligent and trainable, but also have an independent streak. They require consistent training and socialization from an experienced owner who can establish themselves as the alpha.

How to Keep Health of Akita Inu

Like all dog breeds, it’s important to keep the Akita Inu healthy and happy. This includes providing them with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and proper grooming. They require daily exercise, such as a long walk or run, to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their diet should consist of high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs.

When it comes to grooming, the Akita Inu has a thick double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and shedding. They should also have their nails trimmed regularly, and their teeth brushed to prevent dental issues.

How to Care for Akita Inu

Caring for an Akita Inu requires a dedicated and experienced owner who can provide them with proper training, socialization, and exercise. They should be trained using positive reinforcement methods and provided with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Akita Inus are also prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and thyroid issues. It’s important to have them regularly checked by a veterinarian to catch any potential health problems early on.

Feed for Akita Inu

The Akita Inu requires a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs. They should be fed twice a day, with the amount and type of food depending on their age, weight, and activity level. It’s important not to overfeed them, as they are prone to obesity which can lead to health problems.

It’s also important to provide them with fresh water at all times, and to monitor their food intake to prevent any potential food allergies or digestive issues.

Coat Color And Grooming for Akita Inu

The Akita Inu has a thick double coat that can come in a variety of colors including white, brindle, and red. They shed seasonally, so regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and shedding. They should also have their nails trimmed regularly, and their teeth brushed to prevent dental issues.

It’s important to note that the Akita Inu should never be shaved, as their coat serves as protection from the sun and cold weather.

Conclusion

The Akita Inu is a unique and powerful breed that requires a dedicated and experienced owner. They are highly intelligent and trainable, but also have an independent streak. With proper training, socialization, and care, they can make a loyal and loving companion for the right family.