The Akita is a working dog that hails from Japan where they are considered a symbol of good luck. They are known for their strong guardianship, dedication, and loyalty. In addition to being alert and fearless, Akitas also make great companion dogs who are affectionate to their families. Here are a few more facts about Akitas:

1. The Akita is a Strong Guardian

Akitas were used in ancient Japan to hunt game and also to guard royalty. Although they make excellent companion dogs for the right families, they have not forgotten their guardian instincts and are still one of the dog breeds that are good guard dogs. An Akita is an excellent watchdog with a protective nature that is alert and fearless. They also are generally quiet and tend to only bark when alerting you.

2. They Are Highly Intelligent and Easily Bored

One of the facts about Akitas is that they are highly intelligent working dogs. This means that they are easily bored and need plenty of mental stimulation to stay entertained. As with any dog breed, a bored dog can often become a destructive dog as they will find their own entertainment if not given positive outlets.

This is one of the biggest reasons why giving your dog a job to do and ongoing training are both great ways to keep your dog engaged, and usually well-behaved. Challenging puzzles and toys, learning new games, training for dog sports, and more are all great ways to keep your Akita focused.

3. Akitas Generally Require More Experienced Owners

In addition to their intelligence and guardian instincts, Akitas also have an independent nature and can be willful, determined, and stubborn dogs. Although they do bond with their families and enjoy being with them, they’re known as one of the most independent dog breeds. This can sometimes be an obstacle for first-time owners, which makes the Akita better suited to more experienced owners in general.

First-time dog owners can be a good fit for an Akita, but obedience and puppy training classes are usually recommended. This helps novice dog owners get the knowledge and tools needed to successfully bond and train their Akita. Plus, you can get some tips and helpful hints on how to handle a high-energy working dog.

4. They Are Big Fluffballs

Because of their guardian background and protective nature, Akitas may be wary and suspicious of strangers. But, they are affectionate with their families, devoted to them, and thrive on attention from them.

They are also big fluffballs. An Akita is a large dog breed that can weigh between 75 and 130 pounds! They also have a double coat. The outer coat is straight and coarse while the undercoat is soft and dense. This is what gives an Akita that slightly puffy fluffball look.

Along with the fluff comes some shedding. Akitas are generally very clean dogs that will often make attempts to groom themselves, but they still need some help from you to maintain their coat. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient for most of the year to help handle an Akita’s moderate shedding, but that will need to increase to daily brushing twice a year as the seasons change.

An Akita sheds their undercoat in the spring and fall, which will result in some heavy shedding. But, increasing the frequency of brushing during these seasonal shedding sessions and having the right types of dog grooming brushes can help make your Akita more comfortable and contain the shedding a little.

5. Akitas Thrive in Cold Weather

This breed originated from the snowy mountains in Japan so it’s no surprise Akitas are one of the breeds that love cold weather. Akitas will stay all day, hunting and playing in the snow.

An Akita is happiest when they are allowed to freely frolic and play in the snow. An off-leash dog park can be a good option. If you let them run free in your backyard, make sure you have a secure fence to keep them safe.

6. They are a National Treasure

In Japan, Akitas are very popular. At one time, only the aristocrats and Imperial family could own this breed. There were elaborate ceremonies of grooming and caring for the Akitas. They also wore special leashes that represented their owners’ social status, as well as the Akita’s rank.

They are also very spiritually significant animals. This breed signifies health, happiness, and a long life. They are so spiritually significant in Japan that the happy family is often gifted with a small Akita statue when a child is born.

7. Akitas Have Webbed Toes

One of the interesting facts about Akitas is that they have webbed toes. Because Akitas were bred in a snowy, mountainous range, they had to navigate pretty treacherous terrain. Having webbed toes allows their weight to be distributed more evenly, making walking on ice and snow much easier. The webbed toes also helped them get out of icy water if need be.

Is an Akita Puppy Right For You?

These are just a few facts about Akitas. An Akita puppy can be the perfect addition to an active family that can spend time training them and giving them the attention and exercise they need. If you think this dog breed could be the one for you, learn more about them and check out the available Akita puppies. You could end up finding your new best friend!