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Akita

Origin

🇯🇵

Japan

Size

Large Breed

Ideal Space

House with backyard

Ideal Weather

10º-25ºC

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹5,700

Basic Lifestyle

₹8,550

Premium Lifestyle

Top 5 Traits

Intelligent

Loyal

Fearless

Protective

Disciplined

Akita

Quick Information

The Akita Inu, a majestic breed hailing from Japan, boasts an impressive stature and a distinguished presence. Originally bred for hunting large prey like bears and deer, the Akita possesses a powerful, muscular build and a broad head with characteristic erect ears. Its dense double coat, available in a range of colors including white, brindle, and various shades of red, offers protection against harsh weather. Renowned for its unwavering loyalty and protective instincts, the Akita excels as both a cherished companion and a formidable guardian.


Beyond its physical attributes, the Akita is recognized for its intelligence and independent spirit. While demonstrably affectionate with familiar individuals, it may exhibit reserve or aloofness towards strangers, a reflection of its inherent guarding tendencies. Training an Akita necessitates patience and consistent reinforcement due to its strong-willed and potentially stubborn nature. However, with proper training and socialization, the Akita flourishes as a devoted and reliable family member. This unique confluence of strength, loyalty, and independence makes the Akita Inu a truly remarkable breed.

 

Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

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Nutrition

Monthly Food Expenses

₹ 3,000 - ₹ 4,500

Calories per day

Puppies2000 kcal

Adults1800 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Carbohydrates

Vitamins

Fibre

Protein

Fats

List of foods

Chicken

Home made meals

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Fresh Fish

Fruits

Vegetables

Akitas thrive on a well-balanced, high-quality diet to maintain their robust health and muscular physique. Essential to this is a focus on high-biological-value protein sources, such as chicken, lamb, and fish. These ingredients provide the necessary amino acids to support muscle development and overall energy levels. A combination of high-quality dry dog food and fresh meat ensures a complete nutritional profile, delivering the necessary protein and essential nutrients. Strategic supplementation with vegetables like carrots and green beans can further enhance the diet with dietary fiber and vital vitamins. While fruits can offer additional antioxidants and vitamins, they should be introduced cautiously to avoid potentially toxic varieties.

Close monitoring of caloric intake is crucial to prevent obesity, a condition that can exacerbate pre-existing health concerns like hip dysplasia in Akitas. Additionally, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, is recommended to promote a healthy coat and skin. A diet formulated to meet an Akita's specific needs should also include essential vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium and phosphorus, for optimal bone health, especially during growth stages. Maintaining consistent feeding schedules and practicing portion control are essential for weight management and preventing bloat, a common Akita health concern. Fresh, clean water should be readily available at all times to ensure proper hydration. For a truly optimized dietary plan, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended. This allows for a personalized approach that considers the Akita's age, weight, and activity level, ensuring they receive the precise nutrients required to thrive.

 

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Selecting Good Quality Food

For optimal health and maintenance of their muscular physique, Akitas require a diet rich in high-quality protein sources. Ideally, select dog foods that prioritize real meat, such as chicken, lamb, or fish, as the primary ingredient. These ingredients provide essential amino acids crucial for Akita health. A balanced inclusion of vegetables like carrots and green beans supplements the diet with vital vitamins and dietary fiber. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, obtainable from fish oil or flaxseed, are essential for promoting a healthy coat and skin.


Considering the predisposition of Akitas to hip dysplasia, it's recommended to choose large-breed kibble formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin. These ingredients support joint health and mobility. Furthermore, prioritize complex carbohydrates derived from whole grains and vegetables, such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, and barley, over fillers like corn or soy. These complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy. A balanced blend of essential vitamins and minerals is vital for a robust immune system and overall health. Consider incorporating foods enriched with antioxidants to bolster the Akita's immune response and protect against cellular damage. To minimize the risk of allergic reactions and ensure optimal food quality, select diets free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.


Finally, for a truly optimized diet, consult a veterinarian to tailor a plan that considers your Akita's specific age, weight, and activity level. This personalized approach ensures they receive the precise nutrients required to thrive.

 

Never feed these foods to Akita

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Alcohol

Avocados

Cherries

Cinnamon

Coffee / Tea

Dairy

Fruit seeds

Garlic

Grapes

Onions

Salt

Sugar

For optimal health, Akita diets should prioritize high-quality ingredients and avoid unnecessary fillers. Corn, soy, and wheat, commonly used as inexpensive extenders, offer minimal nutritional value and may contribute to weight gain or digestive upset. Similarly, by-products, often less digestible and with a lower nutrient profile than whole meat sources, can disrupt the nutritional balance of an Akita's diet and potentially lead to long-term health concerns.


Artificial additives, preservatives, and colorings should also be excluded from an Akita's diet. These synthetic ingredients can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and potentially trigger allergic reactions. Additionally, foods high in sodium or sugar should be avoided, as they can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health complications. By selecting a diet formulated with natural, high-quality ingredients, you can ensure your Akita receives a balanced and complete nutritional foundation, promoting optimal well-being and longevity.

 
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Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,250

Common Health Issues

Bloat

Hip Dysplasia

Canine distemper

Heartworm

Parasites

Parvovirus

Well being

Exercise

Bonding

Games

Socialization

Hiking

Energy Level

High

Exercise routine

60 - 120 minutes

Recognising Stress

Changes in appetite

Excessive Barking

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Reluctance to move

Medical Care

Despite their robust nature, Akitas exhibit certain breed predispositions for specific health conditions. Canine hip dysplasia, a genetic malformation of the hip joint, can lead to progressive osteoarthritis and require veterinary intervention. Regular orthopedic examinations and weight management through a balanced diet and appropriate exercise regimen are crucial for mitigating the impact of this condition. Furthermore, Akitas are susceptible to gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly referred to as bloat, a life-threatening condition characterized by stomach torsion and gas entrapment. To minimize this risk, owners should implement feeding protocols that incorporate smaller, more frequent meals and avoid strenuous exercise immediately before or after feeding.


Autoimmune disorders, affecting various bodily systems, can also manifest in Akitas. Early detection and close veterinary monitoring are essential for effective management of these conditions. Additionally, regular ophthalmic examinations are recommended to identify progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) in its early stages, potentially delaying vision loss through timely intervention.


A balanced diet formulated to meet the Akita's specific nutritional needs, enriched with essential vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids, is vital for supporting overall health and immune function. Finally, adherence to a comprehensive vaccination protocol and implementation of parasite prevention measures, including heartworm and tick-borne disease prophylaxis, are essential components of a proactive healthcare plan for Akitas. This multifaceted approach will contribute significantly to their long-term health and well-being.

 

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6 - 8 weeks

DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvo, Parainfluenza)

12 - 14 weeks

Rabies

16 - 18 weeks

DHLPP

20-22 weeks

Bordetella

1 year

Rabies

Recommendations to care for senior Akita dogs

As Akitas reach their senior years, their veterinary care regimen requires adaptation to address the specific challenges associated with geriatric canines. Regular comprehensive physical examinations become even more critical for the early detection and management of prevalent age-related conditions such as osteoarthritis, cardiac disease, and thyroid dysfunction. Given their breed predisposition to hip dysplasia, particular emphasis should be placed on maintaining joint health. Supplementation with glucosamine and chondroitin can be a valuable tool in managing joint pain and promoting continued mobility. Additionally, adhering to a balanced, senior-specific diet and implementing a regular exercise routine focused on low-impact activities such as gentle walks and swimming can significantly reduce stress on their joints and enhance their overall quality of life.


Dental health becomes another paramount consideration in senior Akita wellness. Regular dental prophylaxis, including professional cleanings and examinations, is essential for preventing periodontal disease, a potentially serious condition if left unaddressed. Close monitoring and prompt veterinary intervention for any changes in behavior or physical condition are crucial. Signs such as discomfort, alterations in appetite, or decreased activity levels may indicate underlying health concerns.


Nutritional requirements also evolve with age. Selecting a senior-formulated diet that prioritizes high-quality, easily digestible ingredients ensures their evolving nutritional needs are met. Adequate hydration and a comfortable living environment are fundamental to their well-being. Providing supportive bedding and maintaining a consistent temperature promotes comfort and mobility. Finally, incorporating mental stimulation through the use of interactive toys and gentle social interaction plays a vital role in keeping senior Akitas mentally engaged and content throughout their golden years. This multifaceted approach to senior Akita care can significantly contribute to their extended health, well-being, and quality of life.

 
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Grooming

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800

Shedding Level

High Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Eye Care

Ear Cleaning

Teeth Care

Nail Trimming

Brushing

Benefits of Grooming

Low Shedding

Cleanliness

Prevents infections

Prevents Bad Breath

Odourless

Quality of life

Akitas, renowned for their majestic double coat, necessitate a consistent and multifaceted grooming regimen to maintain optimal health and appearance. Their dense fur undergoes periods of heavy shedding, particularly during seasonal transitions. To manage this shedding and prevent uncomfortable matting, a minimum brushing frequency of two to three times per week is recommended. Regular bathing at intervals of six to eight weeks is essential for maintaining coat cleanliness and minimizing canine odor.


However, the importance of proper Akita grooming extends beyond aesthetics. A consistent grooming routine offers a multitude of health benefits. Routine nail trimming is a crucial component, preventing overgrown nails that can cause discomfort and impede mobility. Regular dental care, incorporating toothbrushing or dental chews, helps prevent dental issues that can have a negative impact on overall health. Additionally, routine ear inspection and cleaning helps identify and prevent the development of infections or irritation.


In conclusion, a comprehensive Akita grooming regimen transcends mere cosmetic upkeep. It plays a vital role in promoting a healthy coat, preventing skin problems, and ensuring an Akita's comfort and overall well-being. By implementing a consistent grooming routine, owners can significantly contribute to the health and happiness of their beloved Akita companions.

 
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Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!

Cost of buying

₹ 30,000 - ₹ 1,50,000

Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Akita for your house.


Buying: Selecting a reliable breeder is crucial when purchasing a pet. Make sure the breeder gives the dogs the care they need and adheres to moral breeding procedures.


To confirm the dog's health and pedigree, request health certificates and lineage documentation.


Cost of a Akita depends on a number of variables including ancestry, potential for show quality, and breeder reputation.


Adopting: Offering a needy pet a loving home through adoption is a fantastic choice. See if any breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or rescue organizations have a Akita up for adoption.


Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and initial medical care are usually included in adoption fees. These charges differ, but they are typically less than what it would cost to purchase from a breeder.

 

Prerequisites to pet a Akita

Access to Groomer

Appropriate Climate

Access to Veterinary

Lifestyle Compatibility

Space and Environment

Financial Capability

Akita breeders in India

Praveen Kanukurthi

Praveen Kanukurthi

Playmate

Hyderabad, Telangana

Listing Soon

Raju Dog trainer

Raju Dog trainer

R2 dog training center

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Listing Soon

Abhishek Jain

Abhishek Jain

Furbuddys

Jalgaon, Maharashtra

Listing Soon

Now that you know what it takes to raise a Akita, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?

Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Akita breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.


Find Reputable Sources: When purchasing from breeders, look out for trustworthy breeders who have an emphasis on the temperament and well-being of the dogs. If you're thinking about adopting, check out the local rescue or animal shelters.


Visit the Breeder/Adoption Center: Make plans to meet the dogs or pups by scheduling a visit to the breeder or adoption center. Inquire about their health, immunization history, and socializing while keeping an eye on their living conditions.


Ask for documentation: Ask the breeder for vaccination records, health certificates, and any other relevant paperwork. If the dog is being adopted, find out about its past, present health, and behavior.


Prepare your home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Prepare your house for a puppy if you're adopting a young dog. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Akitas require a particular kind of surroundings to live in?

A safe yard and regular exercise are essential for Akitas; However, they can adapt to a variety of living arrangements. They flourish in environments that offer both mental and physical stimulation.

Do Akitas have a tendency to bark a lot?

Although Akitas are not known for their incessant barking, they occasionally do so to inform their owners or when they notice something odd.

Are Akitas good family dogs?

Akitas can be excellent family dogs for households with older children. They are loyal, protective, and form strong bonds with their family members. However, due to their size and strength, they may not be suitable for families with very young children. Proper training and socialization from an early age are crucial to ensure they are well-behaved and comfortable around all family members.

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