Akita
Popular Dog Breeds
All about the Akita
There are two types of Akita: the Japanese or the American. Both are similar and are typically a quiet and brave breed.
This breed can be a little difficult to train. Patience and a firm approach are required to train this breed as they can sometimes be quite headstrong. It is vital for this dog to be socialised with children at an early age if it is to be kept as a pet and live with a family. It has a natural instinct to hunt and makes for a good guard dog.
The Akita loves variety and can become bored and agitated very easily. This breed can require a lot of time and attention when training; and it is not recommended for first time owners. If the proper time is devoted to training this dog it can become the most loyal of companions.
The Akita is listed as a restricted breed in Ireland on the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998.
Grooming an Akita
Hair type: There are two breeds of Akita: the Japanese and the American Akita. They both have a double coat. The undercoat is thick, soft, dense and shorter than the outer coat. The outer coat is straight, harsh and stands slightly off the body. The hair on the head, legs and ears are short. The length of the hair at withers and rump is around 2 inches long which is slightly longer than the rest of the body; except the tail where the coat is longest and most profuse.
Daily coat care: The coarse, stiff, short haired coat needs significant grooming. Brush with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when absolutely necessary. Bathing removes the natural waterproofing of the coat. This breed sheds heavily twice a year.
Recommended groom frequency: Akitas should be seen by a professional groomer every 8-12 weeks.
At Petmania Grooming Studios we have a full range of treatments available for your Akita. If you get puppy, we recommend our Puppy’s First Visit at around four months; once your puppy has received all its vaccinations.
Diet
Depending on the age, size and activity level of your Akita; you can expect to feed between 350g and 800g of dry dog food a day.
To help you choose the right dog food for your Akita, speak with one of our Pet Care Advisors in-store today.
Activity Level
The Akita needs moderate but regular exercise to stay in shape. It should be taken for long daily walks. It is not an overly active dog; but nonetheless it requires exercise to keep it mentally and physically fulfilled.
Where to get an Akita
There are lots of places offering dogs or puppies for sale in Ireland; but we would always ask that you consider adopting a dog first. Our animal rescue partners have 100’s of rescue dogs and puppies seeking a forever home; and would be delighted to introduce you to them.
However, if a rescue dog is not for you, we do recommend that you choose a registered breeder; and seek Irish Kennel Club registration papers which will confirm that the dog has been bred to their strict code of ethics.
