Akita Dog - Are They Right for You?

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     The Akita dog has been around for centuries unchanged. Some even tag them as primitive dogs because of their appearance. They are the largest of the Japanese Spitz-type breed having a double layer of fur. They can be mistaken for a young bear with their solid and muscular body and a flat short muzzle. They are tremendously loyal to their family but they have a strong will that never backs down. This is what makes them perfect for some but too much for others.

Looking at its magnificence and noble stature it is hard not to like to won one. But let me warn you that Akita dogs are not for the novice dog handler or to those who are submissive in nature. They are a breed that needs kind but firm guidance, someone who can stand and be respected as pack leader in their eyes.

Let's take a closer look at the Akita dog so that you can decide if they are for you or if you are for them. The breed is a result of centuries of selective breeding to make this magnificent creature. Solely owned by aristocrats and shoguns in the past, Akita dogs demand a dominant and benevolent master. They were used to herd wild boars, elks and even large bears until the hunters arrive. They are excellent guard dogs watching over their territory vigilantly. They are courageous as they are loyal and not everyone can handle that. They prefer being a single pet or one of two dogs, the other one preferably of the opposite sex.

Appearance

The American Akita dog is larger in size due to cross breeding after WWII. They can be a variety of colors while the Japanese Akita dog is more traditional in guise. They placed tremendous effort in maintaining the original characteristics to preserve the Japanese National Monument. They only have five colors: fawn, red, sesame, brindle and white. Black masks are not permitted. Males, at the average, grow to be more than 100 lbs and females range the 80 lbs weight. They have a bear-look characteristic, double furred (the inner fur is soft and thick the outer is stiff and straight) and the tail curl over their back.

Temperament (This is where you will feel if you are a right match for the Akita dog)

They are docile, intelligent and fearless dogs. They have a tendency to be the alpha dog so stern but kind training is imperative. Loyalty and affection for the family is without comparison but aloof to strangers. As they were bred hunters, they can demonstrate aggression to small animals. This is where unyielding guidance is considered necessary.

With all dogs and humans alike, each one will have their own character trait that will define one from the rest. But as a bred they are very loving and loyal. They exhibit cleanliness, grooming themselves and rarely making a mess. They are quiet and rarely bark, unless there is a need for it. They are fit for nobility.

With all that they are and all that their master can guide them to be, do you think that the Akita dog is right for you?