American Akita: photo and characteristics of the dog breed. Characteristics of the American Akita dog breed How long do American Akitas live at home?

The American Akita is a unique combination of courage, aggression, friendliness and boundless loyalty. This is a large and serious dog. For all its advantages, the Akita is difficult to raise and train, but those who can cope with it cannot find a more devoted friend and guard.

American Akitas appeared relatively recently, but in order to better understand them, we should dive a little deeper and touch on part of the history of their closest relatives from the Land of the Rising Sun -.

The Japanese Akita is a breed with a long history. It is believed to have originated from aboriginal dogs in an area in the north of the country. Initially, Akita Inu were used for hunting and home guarding and were called Matagi Akita. At the turn of the 20th century, dog fighting became very popular. In an attempt to make dogs larger and stronger, they began to crossbreed with imported breeds, mastiffs, shepherds. This led to the deterioration of classical species. In 1914, at an exhibition in Tokyo, people noticed the damage that had been caused to the breed. Soon, dogs of the traditional type were declared natural monuments and any crossbreeding was prohibited. Breeders tried their best to restore the original characteristics of the almost lost Matagi Akita.

The next blow was the Second World War. The government ordered all breeders to hand over their dogs for military use. Many Akitas, mostly large ones, were taken by American soldiers. In the post-war years, there were no more than 20 traditional Akita Inu left in Japan. They became the basis for work to revive the breed. At the same time, in the States, the breed quickly found its admirer and began to develop at a rapid pace under the name Great Japanese Dog.

Further work on the Akita in Japan and America proceeded in parallel. Japanese breeders could not agree with their American colleagues on a common pedigree and did not allow the export of dogs that are natural monuments. Naturally, the American Akita began to differ in appearance and character.

The breed club was created in 1956, and already in 1972 the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed. Until 1992, American and Japanese clubs did not recognize each other; only the Japanese Akita Inu was registered with the FCI. Because of this, problems arose during the judging of dogs at international exhibitions. It was only in 2000 that the FCI divided the breeds and officially approved the standard for the American Akita.

Video review about the American Akita dog breed:

Appearance and standards

The American Akita is a large dog, with a strong, powerful build, heavy bones, and excellent balance. Sexual dimorphism is well expressed. The height of males is 66-71 cm, females - 61-66 cm.

The standard, describing the Akita breed, highlights important proportions:

The ratio of height and body length for a male is 9:10, for a female – 9:11;
The depth of the chest is equal to half the height at the withers;
The distance from the stop to the tip of the nose is related to the distance from the back of the head to the stop as 2:3.

The Akita's head is massive, shaped like a blunt triangle when viewed from above. The stop is not too sharp, but well marked. Between the eyes there is a shallow hollow that extends onto the forehead. The muzzle is wide and well filled. The nose is black and large. Lips are not drooping. The jaws are blunt and powerful. Complete set of teeth. A straight bite is acceptable, but a scissor bite is preferred. The eyes are relatively small, dark brown, triangular in shape. The ears are firm, small, triangular in shape with rounded ends. When viewed from the side, you can see how the ears are tilted forward and continue the line of the neck.

The neck is muscular, thick, with minimal dewlap, and widens well towards the shoulders. The skin is not too tight, but not loose either. The back is straight. The abdomen is moderately tucked. The chest is deep, wide, the ribs are well arched. The tail is large, set high. All dogs carry it differently, most often thrown over their back. The limbs are strong with strong bones. The feet are well-knit, pointed straight, with prominent knuckles and thick pads.

The coat is dense, very thick, consisting of a soft undercoat and a longer, hard outer coat, which is slightly raised by the undercoat. The color can be any. A notch or mask may be present. The color of the undercoat sometimes differs from the main color.

Character and psychological portrait

Akitas are balanced, brave and alert dogs, calm, with a sense of self-esteem. They are very smart, but in their character there is stubbornness and independence, which are inherent in oriental breeds. Akitas are loyal to their owner and family. At home they are affectionate, friendly and sociable, never annoying. They get along well with children if they grew up in their company. Strangers are always treated with distrust and wariness. The only purpose of the American Akita is to protect its owner and property. A properly raised Akita should accept any guests if family members are at home. When the dog is left alone on the farm, it turns into a reliable guard.

Growing up, Akitas become serious and self-sufficient. There are often problems with hierarchy in the family. The dog is trying to take the dominant position, so you need to actively train it from an early age.

Akita has a wonderful memory and completely trusts its owner. It is very important not to lose this trust and remain the leader for the dog. You should not deceive the Akita by luring, for example, into the enclosure with a treat, or by giving commands such as “Walk” or “Eat” if they are not followed by a corresponding action.

One of the most common behavior problems is aggression towards other dogs. They are often loyal to cats, but not to strangers; they will not be in the Akita’s territory. Adult dogs, especially males, rarely accept another dog into the pack. On walks they often show their character not from the best side, they provoke quarrels and fights, so in dog walking areas you should not let your Akita off the leash.

The American Akita is a serious dog that should not be adopted for a child. Education and training should be carried out by an adult with a steady hand and experience. Also, Akita is not suitable for weak-willed and elderly people.

Training and physical activity

Training an Akita is hard work, but not because of the stupidity of these dogs, but rather because of their extraordinary intelligence. The Akita will first think about whether it is necessary to carry out the command given to it. In addition, the dog will only obey the one it considers the leader.

For American Akitas, training school is not the best option. The owner must attend courses with the dog and train it. Lessons should be short, without prolonged repetition of one command.

Most Akitas are very active and learn quickly, but they quickly become bored when following the same commands. It is very important to motivate your dog. At first, praise and treats will do, but later you will have to use your imagination. If the puppy begins to be stubborn and does not want to obey, he needs to be shown “who’s boss”, pressed against the floor with his back and held until he stops resisting. You can also take the puppy by the withers and press it to the floor. Akita must understand that the owner is strong and he is the leader. In the future, the dog will check more than once to see if anything has changed and try to take leadership.

Akita is perfectly adapted for life in an enclosure; it is quite unpretentious and hardy. Thanks to the thick undercoat, it tolerates even severe frosts well, which cannot be said about hot weather. The yard in which the American Akita roams freely should be well fenced. This is necessary for two reasons. Firstly, such a measure will protect people passing by, whom the dog may consider a threat to property. Secondly, Akitas are prone to escape.

Akita can be kept in an apartment, but it will need to be given good physical activity. Plush fur sheds quite a lot, even if the dog is brushed regularly. At a young age, usually up to 2 years, Akitas are much more energetic and often cause irreparable damage to property, chewing shoes, baseboards, and sometimes hiding wallpaper. Akitas often have no fear of heights. If the dog deems it necessary, it can jump off the balcony without thinking about what will happen after landing.

A puppy should be accustomed to all cosmetic and hygienic procedures as early as possible; it will be very difficult to do anything to an adult dog if it doesn’t want it.

Caring for a dog is easy. It is enough to comb the wool once a week. During seasonal molting, it is advisable to do this daily. Akitas are usually bathed once every 3-4 months. As necessary, clean the ear from accumulated wax. It is very good if the dog can be taught from an early age to brush its teeth, and then perform this procedure regularly.

Diet

At first, it is advisable to feed the puppy the same food that the breeder fed. If it is natural food, the composition and method of preparation are important. If ready-made food, what brand? In the future, the owner himself chooses which option is more acceptable to him. Each dog is individual; the food that suits one may not suit another. You may have to experiment and find the optimal diet. When choosing a natural diet, it is worth remembering that food for a dog is not leftovers from the master’s table, it is meat, cereals with vegetables, dairy products, fish, eggs and fruits.

Owners of American Akitas should remember that the breed is prone to gastric volvulus. This means that the dog should not be fed immediately after or before walking. Food should be at normal temperature and not contain products that enhance fermentation processes in the digestive tract.

The quantity and quality of food depends on the activity of each individual dog. In the cold season, during periods of physical activity, it is necessary to increase the amount of protein in the diet. Babies up to one year of age are fed 3-4 times a day, adult dogs - 2 times a day. Clean drinking water should always be freely available.

Health and life expectancy

The American Akita boasts good health and good immunity. Puppies are less susceptible to infectious diseases than other purebred dogs. But there are diseases to which Akitas have a genetic predisposition:

Hip dysplasia (dogs are predisposed to this disease, but it develops more often due to poor nutrition and physical activity during the growth period);
inversion of eyelids;
Epilepsy;
Bloating;
Progressive retinal atrophy;
Some dogs experience infertility due to hormonal imbalances.

Average life expectancy is 11-12 years.

Choosing a puppy and the price of an American Akita

Only those who need a good American Akita with the right psyche and standard appearance need to take a responsible approach to choosing a puppy. An emotional purchase of a dog online based on a photo can result in disappointment. First of all, you need to choose not a puppy from the litter, but a kennel and parents, assessing their appearance and character.

Akita Inu puppies can be adopted at the age of 2-2.5 months. At this point, they must go through the branding and certification procedure in order to receive a metric (puppy card, which is then exchanged for a pedigree). Puppies must also be vaccinated. As proof of this, a veterinary passport with stickers and the seal of the clinic is provided.

It is worth deciding in advance on the gender of the dog. Bitches are calmer, quickly become attached to the owner, they have less pronounced leadership qualities, and they are smaller in size. Males are full of dignity and arrogance. They often try to dominate and tend to search for love all year round. Raising and training a male dog is much more difficult.

It is very difficult for an inexperienced person to determine the character of a future puppy, but you can trust the breeder, who, based on his own observations, will recommend a dog with the desired temperament. In addition, the puppy must be externally healthy, strong, and well-groomed. Pay attention to compliance with the standard.

The average cost of an American Akita puppy is 35,000 rubles. Puppies without a pedigree are usually sold for 10,000-20,000 rubles. Dogs from elite producers of American and European lines naturally cannot be cheap; breeders ask for them from 50,000 rubles. and higher.

Photos

The gallery contains photos of puppies and adult dogs of the American Akita breed.

The American Akita is a large dog with a difficult character and impressive appearance. This breed is valued for its loyalty, charisma and excellent training abilities. Its representatives often live up to 14 years.

Height at withers: males 66-71 cm, females 61-66 cm.
Weight: 34-54 kg.

Color: white, red, brindle, fawn, spotted.
Eye color: dark brown.
Nose color: black.
General form: a massive dog with a harmonious build, erect ears, a curled tail and short double-layered hair.

Disqualifying signs:

Aggression, behavioral vices, cowardice;
Deviations from scissor bite;
Ears that are not erect or have folds on them;
Unpainted nose (except for white dogs);
Height at the withers is lower: males 63.5 cm, females 58.5 cm;
Cryptorchidism in males.

How does an American Akita differ from a Japanese Akita?

Powerful backbone;
Suspension;
Stretched skin;
Raw physique;
Excellent training abilities;
Variety of acceptable colors;
Wider eye shape.

The American Akita is also called the large Japanese dog.

Breed history and purpose

The American Akita is a young breed. Its ancestors were Japanese dogs, which were used for hunting, fighting and guard work. Modern representatives owe their origin to the American occupation forces.

In Japan, dog fighting has been extremely popular for several centuries. Entering the ring and fighting the animals resembled a ceremony. People treated dogs with respect, caring about the health of their pets. The ancestors of the American Akita were also released into the ring. They went hunting with their close relatives, so that the dogs would drive and hold a large animal (bear, wild boar) until a person with a weapon arrived. Over time they were all called Matagi, which means "hunter".

At the beginning of the 20th century, dog fighting was banned, so the population was reduced to dozens of dogs. However, the Japanese recognized the breed as a national treasure and protected it from complete extinction. By 1939 the situation had become critical.

With the outbreak of hostilities, people could not even feed their families. Because of this, dogs were shot and sometimes killed for meat or fur to make clothes for soldiers. Matags disappeared rapidly, but they were crossed with German shepherds, which the authorities allowed to be kept for the needs of the army.

Other breeds also participated in breeding. Qualities that American Akitas received due to crossbreeding:

Low growth - from .
Short hair, special ear structure, zoo aggression - .
Independence, blue spots on the tongue, mane - .
Long wool, dampness - St. Bernards.

Now these qualities are considered undesirable or vicious for the American Akita. Then cross-breeding was inevitable. Thanks to this, the breed acquired its distinctive features. However, in the mountainous areas, a population untouched by interbreeding was preserved.

The American military appreciated the Japanese dogs and took them to their homeland. So in the USA they began to purposefully breed Akitas. Problems with new blood were created by the Japanese, who did not give puppies and adult dogs to foreigners.

After World War II in the United States, enthusiasts achieved recognition of the breed by the canine community. In Great Britain and Australia, interest soon arose in these unusual dogs.

The FCI recognized the breed later, giving it the name Large Japanese Dog and placing it in Group 5 of the general classification. In 2001, the standard was changed, and the American Akita appeared. Now this breed is in demand in Europe, the USA, and Australia, but in Japan there are very few such dogs. Modern Akita Inus are bred there.

American Akita is used for bear hunting and other large animals. Due to its size and extraordinary mental characteristics, the dog boldly enters into a fight with the animal and holds it until the owner appears.

They win major exhibitions, sporting competitions and live next to people as companions.

Temperament and character

Positive traits:

Courage;
Learning ability;
Friendliness towards people;
Lively mind;
Loyalty;
Resistant to stress;
Little sensitive to pain;
Excellent working qualities;
Silence.

Negative qualities:

Willfulness;
Tendency to escape;
Need a special approach;
Desire for leadership.

Among modern American Akitas, cases of aggression towards other animals are not uncommon.

Who is the dog suitable for?

The American Akita is a dog with a serious character, therefore not suitable for a beginner. Her upbringing requires constant monitoring until the desired behavior is fully consolidated. However, they remember commands easily, and Akitas quickly get used to life in society. They are popular among active people and avid hunters. They need to be taxed mentally and physically, making it difficult for older people to cope with the wayward nature of Akitas.

They behave decently in the family if they know their place in the so-called pack. They stand up to protect property. American Akitas are found in families with children, but due to their large size, it is better to limit their interaction with children for a while.

Hunting sense and working qualities are often the reasons fights with other dogs, especially of the same gender. They can attack cats, birds, rabbits and domestic rats, thinking about prey. To go outside, prudent owners purchase muzzle.

The best housing for an American Akita is private house with a large yard and free range. They are also kept in enclosures, subject to regular exits outside the site.

Representatives of the breed often live in apartments, but for city walks you need to take the upbringing and socialization of your pet seriously.

Can be excellent security guard. These dogs have a developed sense of smell and are wary of strangers. After guard training, the American Akita will be able to correctly detain or bark an intruder who has entered the owner’s territory.

Choosing a nickname

Nicknames for girls: Aurora, Akiko, June, Nori, Fuji.

Nicknames for boys: Argus, Grizzly, Makoto, Neo, Shiro.

Maintenance and care

not sensitive to frost, snow. Its two-layer coat protects against low temperatures and precipitation. The undercoat prevents water and cold from affecting the skin, and the guard hairs provide additional protection. Your pet should be protected from extreme heat, because large dogs are more likely to get sunstroke, have problems with the cardiovascular system.

Hunters often have American Akitas living in equipped enclosures. The premises should be spacious, with strong walls and a booth so that the dog can rest or hide from bad weather. It is also possible to keep it on a leash if the pet is constantly walked, and the chain allows you to move around the perimeter. In this case, it is necessary to build a booth with insulation and a floor made of wooden boards under a canopy.

Despite its size, the dog loves movement and active games. Walking with an adult dog at least 30 minutes in the morning and afternoon. In their free time they go to fields, forests, and the banks of reservoirs. Swimming helps keep you fit, and the water cools you down in the summer heat. In winter, the American Akita is not dressed, as they have very thick hair.

Feeding

Approximate diet for an adult dog:

Meat (beef, chicken, lamb, horse meat) – 600-800 g.
Porridge (rice, buckwheat) – 300-400 g.
Vegetables, cottage cheese, kefir – 300-500 g.

The daily norm is divided into 2 servings, puppies are fed 5-6 times until they reach 6 months. Helpful Supplements:

Dried seaweed improves the health and color of the coat (for red dogs).
Calcium, phosphorus - support joints at different periods of life.
A chicken egg is a nutritious product that is good for wool.
Sea fish is a storehouse of microelements, easily digestible, and contains fatty acids.

All medicinal supplements are used only after consultation with a veterinarian. Fish replaces meat, but increases the portion to 1 kg. The egg is served raw once a week. Fruits and vegetables are not processed for feeding; it is advisable to buy seasonal ones.

Choose dry food with a high content of grains and a reduced amount of fat. The composition should not contain corn and its derivatives (gluten). However, you can pamper your pet with a piece of meat or cottage cheese between meals, if there are no health problems.

Grooming

Grooming of the American Akita - periodic washing, drying with a high-power compressor and regular brushing (once a week). Pedigree wool can be easily washed with a universal shampoo or deep cleaning product 1-2 times a month. Conditioners and balms are not needed. To comb out old fur, use a slicker brush, a wide-toothed brush and a long furminator during seasonal molting.

Claws shorten with tongs if they are not worn down when walking. Ears clean with a cotton swab dipped in lotion or hydrogen peroxide. Once every 2-3 months, the dog is treated with a tick and flea repellent. Teeth cleaned with special compounds at home or in a veterinary clinic using ultrasonic devices and hand tools.

Eyes American Akitas are not prone to excessive tearing, but white dogs leave marks near the inner corners. This is corrected with hydrogen peroxide or animal products. They are applied to a cotton swab and gently blot the stain on the fur. Then rinse thoroughly, avoiding contact of the product with the mucous membrane of the eye.

The light coat of the American Akita can be quickly tidied up with the help of whitening shampoos and powder.

Education and training

Breeders agree that the American Akita needs to be trained from 2-3 months of life. A wayward and active puppy will resist at first, so you need to interest him and do activities in the form of a game. The training process can be difficult, but by age 2, the owner will have a serious, well-mannered dog.

Due to the presence of blood, American Akitas remember many commands and carry them out with lightning speed. They are characterized by dominance, they often test their owners' strength.

Health and life expectancy

The following diseases are common in the breed:

Hip dysplasia;
Retinal atrophy;
Inversion and eversion of eyelids;
Hypothyroidism;
Allergic reactions;
Dermatitis;
Intolerance to anesthesia;
Gastric volvulus.

On average, American Akitas live 10-14 years.

How much does it cost and where to buy

There are nurseries in the USA, Russia, England, Germany and Australia. A national breed club is registered in the RKF, through which you can buy a purebred puppy.

Price of a puppy with pedigree: 40,000 rubles.

The word "American" in the breed's name can be confusing when it comes to its origins. The second name - large Japanese dog - is more eloquent in this regard: its homeland is the Land of the Rising Sun. But how did it happen that the Akita suddenly became American?

The ancestors of the American Akita are the Japanese Akita Inu, originally used for hunting and guard purposes. Several centuries ago they were called differently: Matagi-Akita. Later they began to be used in dog fighting, which became especially popular at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. In pursuit of monetary gain, owners sought to “improve” their dogs, making them larger and stronger. For this purpose, they were crossed with breeds introduced to the islands such as mastiffs and shepherd dogs.

However, as a result of these manipulations, the classic features of the breed began to blur, deteriorate, or even be completely lost. The damage caused to the Matagi Akita was noticed at a dog show held in Tokyo in 1914. Soon, pure representatives of the breed were declared natural monuments, and their crossing with representatives of other species was strictly prohibited. The breeders had more work to do: they did everything possible to return the Matagi Akita to its original characteristics.

Before these magnificent dogs, which became the source of national pride for the Japanese, had time to recover from the blow inflicted on the breed by irrepressible human greed, World War II broke out. By order of the government, all breeders donated their pets to the needs of the front. As is known, the end of the war was marked by the surrender of Japan in 1945. Returning to their homeland, US military personnel decided to take with them several puppies they liked. It was they who became, a few years later, the progenitors of a new breed. But the actual classic Akita Inu remained on the Japanese Islands after the war, no more than 20 individuals.

At the same time, overseas the breed began to gain widespread recognition and developed at a rapid pace. At first it was called a large Japanese dog. But in the States, work on the breed was not synchronized with the Japanese - it proceeded in parallel and, as they say, on its own path. Japanese breeders tried to negotiate with their American colleagues regarding her common pedigree, but in vain. They did not even allow dogs declared natural monuments on the islands to be exported to the United States. All these measures did not stop the Americans. As a result, over time, the overseas Akita began to differ from the Japanese one in both appearance and character. And then it received a new name - American Akita.

In 1956, a club for the newly formed breed was created, recognized by the American Kennel Club only in 1972. The “breed war” with Japan continued until 1992: for two decades, the kennel clubs of both countries did not recognize each other - only the Japanese Akita Inu was registered with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The official division of the breeds occurred only in 2000, when the FCI approved the standard for the overseas Akita.

Video: American Akita

Features of the American Akita

The American Akita is an excellent hunter. If you suppress this natural quality in a dog, it will still manifest itself in one way or another, and not in the most pleasant way for the owner. For example, on a walk your pet will begin to rush at smaller dogs or “bully” the cat living in the same house.

The American Akita is also called a one-owner dog. She has a very hard time with a change of owner and often cannot adapt to living in another place for the rest of her life. A classic example is the famous Hachiko, an Akita Inu dog, who gained fame throughout Japan in 1932 after the publication in one of the largest Tokyo newspapers of the article “A devoted old dog awaits the return of his owner, who died seven years ago.” Based on this story, which touched the hearts of millions of people around the world, a film was made in 2009 with Richard Gere in the title role.

As you can see, the American Akita inherited this quality from its Japanese counterparts - devotion. It will be especially difficult to find common ground with an adult dog for those new owners who have not previously had experience communicating with large Molossians.

Appearance of the breed

The American Akita is a very large dog. Strength and power can be read in her every movement. Gradually, the hunting skills of these dogs are becoming a thing of the past, which is largely due to their large size, which prevents the overseas “Japanese” from remaining fast and agile hunters.

Thanks to its special appearance features, namely its spectacular color and perfect lines, the American Akita has long been “registered” at dog shows in different countries of the world, including Russia. Representatives of the breed often lead in BESTS of the fifth group, often winning entire competitions.

general description

It is very difficult to confuse an American Akita with another breed - it is almost impossible, even if before “personal acquaintance” you had only seen it in a photo. The first thing that will catch your eye, in addition to its impressive size, is its strong body with well-developed muscles and massive bones. The “bear” type muzzle with small eyes and a relatively short bridge of the nose will definitely attract attention.

The height and weight of the American Akita, as well as the proportions of the body, vary depending on gender. The height of males at the withers varies from 66 to 71 cm, females - from 61 to 66 cm. The weight of adults is usually: males 45-65 kg, females 32-45 kg.

For males, the ratio of the height at the withers to the length of the body is 9:10, for females it is 9:11. The distance from the foot to the tip of the nose correlates with the distance from the foot to the occipital protuberance in a ratio of 2:3.

Head

The head is the hallmark of the breed. Massive, but at the same time in harmony with the body. There are no skin folds (wrinkles) - provided that your pet is in a calm state. When viewed from above, the shape of the head resembles an obtuse triangle.

The skull is wide and flat, with a shallow groove running upward along the forehead. The transition from forehead to nose (stop) is well expressed, but not sharp.

Wide and voluminous muzzle with powerful, square-shaped jaws. The suspension of the jaws is light. The ratio of muzzle length to skull length is 2:3.

Teeth

The bite is characterized as a regular scissor bite. However, the breed standard also allows for a straight bite. The teeth are strong, the dental formula must be completely present.

Eyes

The Akita's eyes are small, almost triangular in shape, and deep-set relative to the size of the head. Color – dark brown. The eyelids are black and fit tightly.

Ears

The ears are also small in relation to the rest of the head. Standing, triangular in shape. They have a wide base on strong cartilage, slightly rounded at the ends. The setting is not too low. Above the eyes, at the level of the scruff of the neck, slightly tilted forward.

When pulling the ear forward, its tip should ideally touch the edge of the upper eyelid. If you look at the Akita's ears from the side, they seem to continue the top line of the neck.

Nose and lips

The nose is black, wide, the nostrils are well open. Liver color is allowed, but only the American Akita is white. Although it is still preferable to “classic” the breed, that is, the black color of the nose.

The lips are also black, dry, and fit tightly. The tongue is pink.

Neck

Massive, thick and relatively short, with minimal dewlap. Muscular, widening towards the shoulders. The scruff has a good convexity, smoothly passes into the base of the skull and merges with it.

Frame

The body length of the American Akita exceeds the height of the dog at the withers. The chest is wide, voluminous and deep.

The depth of the chest is equal to half the height of the animal at the withers. The ribs are distinguished by sufficient convexity (arched).

The belly is moderately tucked. The back is straight, the lower back is muscular and strong, with a slight convexity. The skin is elastic and fits tightly.

Tail

Covered with straight, thick and coarse hair, it does not form a dewlap. Its base is large and powerful. The tail is set high and the Akita carries it over its back. Or, as an option, the tail touches the side. The tip must reach the back or fall below its level.

The tail is bent into a ring, sometimes double, forming three-quarters of a circle. The last vertebra, when fully rotated, reaches the hock joints.

Limbs

The forelimbs have powerful bones and look straight when viewed from the side. Shoulders moderately sloping back, strong and firm. Elbows should look strictly back, not turned outward or inward. The pasterns have a slight slope, about 15 degrees to the vertical. The paws are round in shape, “cat” type, the direction is straight. The pads are thick and elastic, the fingers are arched with strong claws.

The hind limbs are also distinguished by strong bones and powerful muscles. Hips are well developed and strong. The metatarsals have a fairly low location and are not turned outward or inward. The knee joints, when viewed from behind, are parallel and characterized by moderately pronounced angles. Paws are straight-directed, with elastic pads, round ("cat" type). The fingers are convex (arched) and equipped with strong claws. The so-called dewclaws, that is, the fifth in a row, are usually removed.

The American Akita's gait is characterized by strong, free movements. They are also distinguished by a moderate lunge and push. The movement of the front and hind limbs is carried out in the same plane.

Wool

The coat is double and has a dense undercoat. The guard coat is coarse and straight, while the undercoat is soft and dense and somewhat shorter in comparison with the outer coat.

The hair on the head, ears and limbs is short. Its length at the rump and withers is approximately 5 cm, which is slightly longer than on other parts of the body, with the exception of the tail. It has the longest and most abundant fur – over 6 cm.

Color

The breed standard here is very democratic, allowing any color options, including white, fawn-white, red and brindle. American Akitas can even be piebald, that is, spotted (pinto) - with or without a mask. Instead of a mask, there may be a spot on the forehead or a dent on the muzzle. The mask is completely eliminated only in white individuals. White individuals have black lips, nose and pads.

The colors of dogs of this breed are clear and pure. The spots have clear contours and are evenly spaced. In the Pinto, the spots on a white background are evenly distributed, covering the head and more than one third of the dog's body; a dark-colored mask is allowed.

The color of the undercoat may differ from the coat color.

Possible defects

Absence of any tooth, with the exception of 2 PM-1 and/or M3.
Short tail.
Light eyes.
Males of the bitch type and, accordingly, bitches of the male type.
The tongue is blue or with black spots.
The presence of a collar or fringes.
Turning of the elbows (inward or outward).
Anger or, conversely, timidity.
Lightweight frame.
Insufficient body weight.

Disqualifying faults

Partially or completely absent pigmentation of the nose (the so-called butterfly nose).
Overshot or undershot.
Semi-erect or completely drooping ears, with folds.
The tail is straight or crescent shaped.
The height of males at the withers is less than 63.5 centimeters, and that of females is less than 58 cm.
Aggression or cowardice.

Any obvious physical abnormalities or problematic behavior is grounds for disqualification of the American Akita.

Please note: male dogs must have two healthy, developed testes, fully descended into the scrotum.

Photo of an adult American Akita

Character of the American Akita

The American Akita is distinguished by its independent and freedom-loving disposition. But at the same time, this is a calm dog, affectionate, balanced. Thanks to her mature, stable psyche, she behaves with dignity and shows restraint in any situation.

Representatives of the breed never have causeless reactions to external stimuli. She does not bark over trifles, and without good reason she does not rush at anything that moves, just because it moves. Akita - smart, reserved, well-mannered and noble - such behavior is completely unusual.

If you keep your pet in an ordinary city apartment, you don’t have to worry that the American Akita will cause any inconvenience to your neighbors. There will certainly be no complaints about constant barking and howling. But if an Akita starts to vocalize, you can rest assured that there is a good reason for it! The barking of your pet is a sure signal that an ill-wisher has encroached on your territory or your property.

Dogs of this breed, like real samurai, love to keep everything under their control - apparently, this is how the genes inherited from their Japanese ancestors manifest themselves. This quality in the American Akita can be called one of the fundamental, because it helps her in fulfilling the mission inherent in nature - to be an excellent watchman. Take a closer look at your dog when he surveys his possessions: there is something bewitching in his gaze, inaccessible to human understanding.

The American Akita is distinguished by its boundless devotion to its owner and his family members. Like the Cane Corso, she gets along very well with children, often even looking after them like a nanny. But, unlike the “Italian,” our “American” cannot be trusted with children who are too young. Not at all because he is capable of offending them. On the contrary, when he feels threatened, he will, without hesitation, rush to protect the little household members. An Akita cannot be a full-fledged nanny due to its size. Leaving the baby alone with her, you cannot be completely sure that the dog will not accidentally push him or cause him some kind of injury. For some of the younger family members, the Akita will become a true friend, especially for teenage children. They won't find a better companion in active games and various pranks!

At the same time, the breed is absolutely not characterized by such traits as obsessiveness and importunity. Although the Akita was specifically bred to live with humans, it still needs its own space. The “American” will never get in your way, but at the same time, you should not impose yourself on him again.

The peculiarities of the “inner world” of the breed also include intolerance to rudeness on the part of the owner and other household members. If an American Akita is yelled at or punished unfairly, she becomes very offended. Never raise your voice at your pet, do not offend him, and especially do not use physical punishment on him.

The American Akita feels great in a country house with a spacious yard. A large territory is her element: there is something to protect, and there is a place to feel like a master. When keeping a dog in an apartment, under no circumstances turn your pet into a “prisoner” of your square meters. A representative of this breed needs not only regular, but also long walks. Moreover, you need to walk him twice a day for at least 1-2 hours. Walking just “for show” is not suitable for Akita. They should be interesting, rich, active, with elements of play and training. All these points will help maintain the dog’s physical and mental health at the proper level.

The American Akita has a remarkable memory and trusts its owner, so it is very important not to deceive the dog, it does not like this and remembers such moments for the future. That is, if you, for example, lured her with a treat or gave the command “Eat!” or “Go for a walk!”, but didn’t do anything, then you risk losing your pet’s trust: he will stop perceiving you as his leader.

Quite often, a problem such as aggression towards other dogs arises in Akita behavior, which can cause some trouble for the owner. It is to dogs: she often shows loyalty to cats, but only to “her own” - there will simply be no strangers in the territory she controls. As for other people's dogs, adult Akitas, especially males, almost never accept other dogs into their company. On walks, they often show their character far from the best side, provoking quarrels and fights. From this we draw a simple conclusion: when you find yourself with your pet in dog walking areas, under no circumstances let him off the leash.

Training and education

Raising and training the American Akita should only be done by an adult with experience, will and a steady hand. The breed is not suitable for weak-willed people, not to mention the elderly and people with disabilities.

Training an Akita can be hard work for many, even experienced owners. But this is not at all because a dog of this breed is “slow-witted.” On the contrary, by nature she has an extraordinary mind, and before executing a command given to her, she will first think about whether it is worth doing. From the outside, it may look like the Akita did not understand what they wanted from her. It also matters how authoritative the owner is in her eyes. The “American” will obey only the one whom he considers his leader, his leader.

For the most part, American Akitas are very active and learn, generally speaking, quickly. But they, like people, can get stuck with routine. In the sense that a dog can simply get bored from following the same commands, therefore motivation is very important in the process of training and education. At the initial stage, it will be easy to get by with just praise and treats. In the future, you will have to show your imagination in what else to interest your pupil.

It happens that the puppy begins to demonstrate character: he is stubborn and does not want to follow commands. This is where we need to show who is in charge. This is quite simple to do: press the capricious one with his back to the floor and hold him in this position until he stops offering resistance. Or grab the puppy by the withers and press him to the floor - this method is also effective. At first glance, it may seem that with such actions the owner is showing violence towards the dog. However, in fact, these are effective ways to convey to the dog that he is its leader, and that he is stronger. In the future, the Akita will more than once try to take a leadership position, checking through disobedience to see if the owner has weakened his “grip” or begins to give in to her. Don't fall for such tricks!

The main purpose of the American Akita is to protect its owner, and it will try to always be nearby. To prevent such “care” from the pet from causing inconvenience, in the process of training and raising the puppy, it is necessary to pay special attention to the “Place!” command. Otherwise, the dog will be on duty near the closed door, waiting for you from work, sleep by your bed and persistently watch near the locked door to the bathroom.

Caring for an American Akita is not difficult, but it must be done. Hygiene procedures will help maintain your pet's health and beauty. In addition, daily care is the only way to promptly detect various diseases at an early stage and take the necessary measures.

The breed has a thick “fur coat” with a soft undercoat that is not prone to matting. The coat does not need cutting, but it needs to be washed regularly and combed with a metal comb 1-2 times a week. The coat is subject to shedding. The molting process is abundant, it occurs twice a year - in spring and autumn. During this period, the dog needs to be combed daily using a slicker brush or furminator.

Eyes need regular examination. If you notice small gray lumps in the corners of your eyes, you shouldn’t worry too much; they can be easily removed with a soft, lint-free cloth. If you notice excessive souring of the eyes, swelling of the eyelids, constant tearing, immediately contact a specialist. Self-medication in such cases is unacceptable.

The ears should be thoroughly examined once a week. In a healthy ear, there is no excess wax; it is a beautiful pink color. The reason for contacting a veterinarian should be an abundance of wax, redness of the ear and an unpleasant odor coming from it, as well as a rash. Only a specialist can determine what the reason is. And there can be many reasons: ear mites, otitis media, allergies to certain components of the diet.

Akita teeth need to be brushed 3-4 times a week using dog toothpaste. You can use a brush or just apply it to your finger. It is important to prevent the appearance of tartar, so the condition of the dog’s oral cavity should be constantly monitored, and you should regularly take your pet for examination to the veterinarian.

After walks, be sure to wipe your American Akita's paws using damp towels and inspect them for cracks and injuries. It is necessary to rub vegetable oil into the paw pads and include it in the diet, one teaspoon per day is enough. This simple preventive measure will prevent cracks from appearing. To trim nails (this should be done once a month), use a large breed nail clipper. To avoid chips and burrs, sharp ends are smoothed with a nail file.

Health and Diseases of the American Akita

The American Akita is naturally endowed with good health and good immunity. Her puppies, unlike representatives of some other breeds, are less susceptible to infections. However, there are ailments to which representatives of this breed are genetically predisposed: hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, bloating, entropion and inversion of the eyelids, infertility.

Hip dysplasia can develop primarily due to excessive physical activity during growing up and due to poor nutrition. That is, despite the genetic predisposition, this disease may not develop if you provide the Akita with a balanced diet and do not overload it during training. Infertility in some dogs can be observed due to hormonal imbalances.

In addition, representatives of the breed may suffer from allergic reactions, seborrheic adenitis, hypothyroidism, dermatitis, gastric volvulus, pemphigus, intolerance to anesthesia, as well as Cushing's syndrome (also known as hyperadrenocorticism). This disease affects the organs of the endocrine system due to excessive production of adrenocorticotropic hormone by the pituitary gland and the hormone cortisol by the adrenal glands.

The average life expectancy of the American Akita is 10-14 years.

How to choose a puppy

Be sure to look at the parents of the future pet. This is very important because the offspring inherits their appearance and behavior. If it turns out that the mother or father is cowardly or, conversely, aggressive, then the puppy you choose may very likely turn out to be the same.

Be sure to pay attention to the appearance of the American Akita puppy. He should have shiny fur that is soft to the touch. While petting such a puppy, an association with a plush toy involuntarily arises. If he is too thin, has a swollen tummy, red and watery eyes, or twisted elbows and knees, then it’s better not to take risks and don’t take it. You should not take a puppy that is too young in age, since professionals do not assign show classes to dogs under 9 months.

Your future pet should be active. Lethargy in behavior is a sign of depression, which in turn may indicate a particular disease. If possible, to rule out hidden illnesses that may manifest themselves in the future, pay attention to the puppy's feces. Its consistency and color may confuse you. In this case, you should refrain from purchasing.

Photos of American Akita puppies

How much does an American Akita cost?

The American Akita is not widespread in Russia. It is even less common than its Japanese counterpart, the Akita Inu. But in large cities you can find nurseries for breeding these majestic beauties. There is a direct relationship between the cost of a puppy and the class to which it belongs.

A puppy without a pedigree is relatively inexpensive, from 10,000 to 12,000 rubles. However, such savings are associated with the risk of having a non-purebred Akita or, even worse, a pet with developmental defects.
You can purchase a pet-class puppy, due to any deviations from the breed standard, not suitable for breeding, but healthy, for 15,000 rubles.
From 20,000 to 30,000 rubles. There are puppies with a pedigree and permission to breed, but at the same time they do not have a chance to become winners of exhibitions due to some minor deviations.
Well, if you have your sights set on a high-breed Akita, a future winner of exhibitions and the owner of a variety of titles, then choose a show-class puppy - a descendant of titled parents. Such a baby can cost 50,000 rubles, and this price is minimal.

By choosing the right pet for yourself, you can be sure that in the future you will become a strong tandem with him, doomed to successful interaction. And over time, as you grow older, your American Akita will turn into a full-fledged member of the family - obedient and devoted.

They have thick fur, allowing them to easily withstand winter frosts when kept outdoors.

Speaking about the American Akita, it is worth noting such a characteristic of the breed as silence, which is the standard for them. These dogs practically do not bark, which makes them ideal for keeping in a city apartment. But living in the courtyard of the house will also be a completely suitable option. Dogs belonging to the American Akita have thick fur, allowing them to easily withstand winter frosts when kept outdoors. At the same time, the animals themselves are very clean. Thanks to this, the thick six does not require too much care from the owner.

Origin and history

Country of origin: USA

The history of the origin of the American Akita began in the United States after World War II, when Akita Inu dogs were brought from Japan by military personnel returning home. As a result of crossing large Japanese dogs with mastiffs and German shepherds, the now famous new breed type arose. The first club for fans of this breed in the United States was created in 1956, and in 1972 the American Kennel Club recognized this breed. She was registered in the stud book and received all rights to participate in exhibitions. American Akitas are large dogs of strong build, proportional, with heavy bones and a wide head in the form of an obtuse triangle. The muzzle is deep, the eyes are relatively small, and the erect ears, directed forward, are almost in line with the nape. They say that the head of the American Akita resembles that of a bear (more precisely, a polar bear) - and indeed, they are very similar.

How does the breed characterize the owner?

People who choose the American Akita breed must be true leaders. It is this quality that will allow you to achieve the dog’s favor and respect.

Height at withers: Males 66-71 cm (26-28 inches), females 61-66 cm (24-26 inches)
Weight: Not regulated, for males 50-65 kg, for females – 45-55 kg
Lifespan: up to 12 years

Advantages and disadvantages

Large dog of impressive size
Well developed security qualities
Does not require special coat care
Can live outside all year round
Distrustful of strangers
Little barks

Not easy to learn
Not suitable for inexperienced owners
Males are often pugnacious
Needs training, otherwise it can become socially dangerous

Description of the breed

American Akitas - large, elegant, showy dogs - have long become common at dog shows in our country. These dogs very often win BESTS of the fifth group, and even entire exhibitions due to the perfection of their lines and spectacular color.

Until recently, this breed was called the large Japanese dog. However, the differences from the native Japanese dogs became so great that the breed was renamed, indicating its roots and origin.

Akita is a universal dog, but its main activity is guarding and accompanying its owner. The hunting skills of these dogs are gradually becoming a thing of the past, and their large size prevents American Akitas from being fast and agile hunters. Their harsh disposition and dislike for other dogs is the reason that sometimes these dogs take part in fights with their own kind. However, this rarely happens. Much more often, Akitas act as guards and companions, as well as spectacular show dogs.

The American Akita is a one-owner dog. These dogs endure a change of owner painfully and often cannot adapt to a new home for the rest of their lives. Especially if the new owner has no experience with large Molossians.

American Akita breed standard

The American Akita is a powerful, large and well-balanced dog. Her head has the characteristic shape of a blunt triangle, and the line of her ears continues the line of her neck. These dogs are distinguished by their compactness, energetic and strong movements.

The head of the American Akita is the calling card of the breed. It should be wide, with small, deep-set eyes and a voluminous muzzle. The length of the muzzle is two-thirds of the length of the head. The transition from forehead to muzzle (stop) is moderately pronounced. There is a characteristic shallow longitudinal groove on the forehead. Scissor bite, large teeth and incisors arranged linearly (Molossian row) are desirable. Direct bite (pincers) is allowed. The nose, eye rims and lips should be fully pigmented.

The ears are erect, rounded, on strong cartilage. If you stretch your dog's ear forward, it should reach the top of the eyelid.

The body is slightly stretched. The elongation index for males is 110, for females – 120. This means that the length of the body exceeds the height of the dog at the withers in males by 10%, and in females by 20%. The topline is straight both when standing and when moving. The back is strong, the loin is short and well muscled.

The limbs are parallel, powerful, well muscled. The pasterns are somewhat sloping. The thickness of the front and hind legs is the same. The dewclaws are docked.

Another characteristic feature of American Akitas is their tail. It should be long enough (when unfolded, the tip of the tail should reach the hock), thick at the base. When moving, the tail can lie on the back or fall below its level and form a three-quarter, full or double ring. A mandatory requirement is an abundance of hair on the tail.

The coat is double with a dense dense undercoat, more abundant in the cold season. Its length at the croup and withers is 5 cm, on the paws and ears it is shorter, and on the rest of the body it is slightly longer. There should be no collar or fringes.

Any color is allowed. It just needs to be bright and the white markings well defined and nicely spaced. The undercoat may be colored differently from the topcoat.

A lack of two teeth from M1 and M3 is allowed.

The most serious defects include:

cowardice or uncontrollable aggressiveness

nose with butterfly pigmentation or completely depigmented

undershot or undershot

insufficiently curled tail, straight or sickle-shaped

Height for a male is less than 63.5 cm (25 inches), for a female less than 58.5 cm (23 inches)

unilateral or complete cryptorchidism in males.

Character and characteristics of the American Akita

Despite the fact that the standard stipulates the friendly nature of American Akitas, this dog cannot be recommended for free living in a family. This is especially true for males. Willful, characteristic, they decide a lot in their lives on their own, and recognize the owner as a leader only if, in their opinion, he deserves it. Bitches have a softer character and may well be family dogs.

These dogs are very distrustful of strangers, cannot stand the smell of alcohol and decide for themselves whether the owner needs protection. Managing them requires skill. It should not be trusted to children or elderly people. At the same time, Akitas bark very little. Their voice can only be heard in the yard if there is really a danger of entry.

Those owners who previously kept domestic wolfhounds will find a common language with Akita well. The personalities of these dogs are very similar and they need proper training from a very young age.

American Akita dogs must always be on a leash outside their territory. This is due to the fact that Akitas rarely get along with other pets, especially if they are smaller in size. They are very pugnacious (this is especially true for males and females during estrus and whelping).

A person who cannot keep it as an adult should not get an Akita. The stern disposition and fighting past make a lot of demands on the owner. He must be an experienced dog owner, be able to properly raise his dog, and become its leader.

Keeping an American Akita in a city apartment is undesirable. Those rare cases when this dog feels good in the city only confirm this rule. A spacious apartment, a separate room in case of guests, regular long walks and training - this is how the maintenance in a city apartment is organized. Agree, not everyone can afford this.

These dogs feel best in country houses if they have the opportunity to live freely in the entrusted territory and protect it. Considering that the dog is very wary of strangers, an enclosure with a booth is required. You should not tie an Akita on a chain - such dogs' character deteriorates.

The dog's coat is very dense and does not get wet easily. Of course, Akitas were once fishermen’s dogs, and wet fur in the cold season could cost them their lives. The elastic hair of these dogs repels dirt and the dog will only need to be washed if it is very dirty or is preparing for a show. Akitas shed twice a year, the most pronounced being the spring shedding, when the dogs shed their warm winter down for the summer. During this time, you need to scratch the dog daily or use a furminator. It is curious that even if you do not touch the shedding fur, it itself seems to slide along the new glass spine and does not remain on the dog for a long time.

The erect ears of Akitas are well ventilated and do not require special care. If the dog suddenly begins to rub them with its paws or shake its head, the ears need to be examined. If you notice an unpleasant odor or reddish discharge, you will need the help of a veterinarian.

These dogs grind their claws down on their own. The only time they will need to be pruned is if they are living on soft ground. If the yard is paved or concreted, then the dog grinds its claws down itself. Peeling claws are a sign of a lack of vitamins and minerals.

Akitas' small eyes are well protected from mechanical damage. Sometimes damp eyelids occur, but they are not the cause of frequent inflammation. If purulent discharge appears from the eyes, they need to be instilled with special drops. The cause of inflammation can also be allergies.

Feeding the American Akita

The Japanese roots of American Akitas still affect their food preferences. Many of them do not tolerate typical European foods such as chicken and wheat; they love rice and fish - the basis of the diet of Japanese fishermen.

Selecting a diet for your Akita is a matter that requires an individual approach. These dogs cannot be called gluttons; they eat exactly as much as they want. The owner first of all decides for himself the question of what to choose - natural feeding or ready-made dry diets.

Like all large breeds, the American Akita has a tendency to bloat. Therefore, breed breeders recommend feeding dogs once a day, so as not to overload the digestive system with a large volume of food.

The basis of natural feeding should be meat and, if possible, fish. The addition of non-Japanese blood has made the American Akita more omnivorous, but these dogs still prefer fish to all other sources of protein. You can give your dog beef, lamb, horse meat, sea fish, stewed or raw, after selecting the bones from it. It is very convenient to use a pressure cooker or autoclave to cook fish - after this treatment, all the bones inside the fish become soft and do not threaten the dog’s health.

Rice and buckwheat, as well as oatmeal, are used as a source of carbohydrates. You can give your dog vegetables too. The most useful are carrots, pumpkins, zucchini and zucchini; you can give small quantities of tomatoes, beets, and turnips. Vegetables are given raw or stewed with a small amount of vegetable oil.

Among the fruits that are healthy for dogs are primarily apples. They can be given raw and baked, or added to porridge. You can also offer your Akita seasonal fruits - pears, cherries, raspberries and others. Dogs are rarely able to eat a lot of them, but they absorb the vitamins and minerals they contain well.

When choosing ready-made food for your dog, it is better to choose brands that do not contain chicken and wheat. Carefully read the ingredients on the food package and make sure that the salmon and rice formula does not contain unwanted ingredients or bone meal.

For Akitas, food intended for large dogs is used. Similarly, you need to select vitamins during natural feeding.

American Akita puppies

Large, heavy Akita puppies should not be overfed - this will protect them from problems with the musculoskeletal system. Their activity should also not be excessive. As soon as the baby is tired, the walk and games should be stopped and he should be allowed to rest. Those who like long walks with their dog should wait until the young Akita gets stronger. Otherwise, it will not be possible to avoid crooked elbows, club feet, size and other growing problems.

Another important point is the correct selection of vitamins. Growing bones of puppies require sufficient amounts of calcium and phosphorus, as well as vitamin D, which is responsible for the absorption of these minerals by the puppy's body. The correct balance of these components in puppyhood is the key to the health of an adult dog.

Training the American Akita should begin as early as possible. It is curious that these dogs are able to be friends with others only if they have known each other since puppyhood. Socialization is especially important for young Akitas. By themselves, these dogs are somewhat aloof and very self-sufficient and prefer the company of their owner to meaningless running around with other puppies. Therefore, at an early age, they can be walked with other dogs as often as possible. Sensing the Akita as a future leader, older dogs often attack them, trying to crush them with authority just in case. It is better to prevent this by preventing fights in a timely manner and noticing signs of attempts at dominance on the part of adult dogs.

American Akitas have a very strong free spirit. Therefore, they need to be trained to approach and follow as early as possible, before the innate puppy instincts fade away. The first short trips outside the yard are needed after the first vaccination at the age of 2.5-3 months. At this time, you need to avoid contact with other dogs, teaching the dog to follow only the owner and ignore other passers-by.

If your puppy is going to be exhibited, be sure to get him accustomed to being touched by strangers as early as possible. In the ring, an expert often performs this procedure and the dog should take it calmly, as well as examining the teeth and feeling the testes.

American Akita training

Independent and self-sufficient, the American Akita is a dog for experienced dog owners. It will be best understood by those who previously kept large domestic wolfhounds. The only major difference will be the more expensive diet of these dogs.

Akitas are very reserved dogs. Their devotion to their owner is limitless, but they are in no hurry to demonstrate it. These dogs are stubborn and training will require a lot of patience and time from the owner. It is important to redirect the dog, without causing a scandal, forcing it to do what the owner asks.

What seriously complicates training is that most Akitas are not food eaters and it is difficult to find adequate rewards for them. Even a long absence of food will not force a stubborn Akita to obey. Therefore, many training methods using food rewards are not applicable for this breed. Each Akita will require an individual approach and a qualified, creative trainer.

A puppy can learn basic skills already at 2–3 months. These include shrinkage and recall. At this age, it is important to teach the puppy to calmly tolerate manipulations with his bowl and food. To do this, you need to feed it exclusively in the presence of a person. Place a small amount of food in a bowl, call the puppy over and offer him food. As he eats it, it is first given by hand, then placed in a bowl in small portions as the puppy eats. If the puppy growls, stop feeding for a while, repeating the exercise after half an hour. You should not leave food in the bowl all day - this will complicate training.

Consistent training is very important for dogs of this breed. They perceive screaming as weakness, and beating for no reason as unpredictability and illogicality of the owner, which destroys contact. Moreover, if you insist on your own, simply hovering over the puppy and not yielding, forcing him to take the desired position or submit, the dog will understand this correctly.

Training an Akita is impossible without knowing the rules of pack behavior in dogs. So, you should not allow the dog to force play on the owner, butt him or put his paw on his shoulders. It will seem funny at first, but in the future it will complicate learning.

History of the breed

The American Akita is a descendant of Japanese dogs and Continental English Molossers. Some sources equate this breed with Japanese dogs, which have been known to archaeologists for a very long time and are found on frescoes created long before the beginning of our era. However, the history of the breed actually began in 1854, when Japan signed a treaty with the United States to open ports. At this time, foreigners appeared in the country, and unusual native dogs began to spread throughout the world. Many of them ended up in the USA, where separate breeding of the breed began.

During World War II, the native Akita population was virtually wiped out. Some dogs were exported to the USA, where they joined the ranks of American dogs of Japanese origin. To these were added the blood of English Mastiffs, Bullmastiffs and other Molossians. Over time, the paths of the two breeds diverged. The Japanese set a course to restore the original type of dogs, introduced restrictions on colors, leaving only traditional ones in the breed. The Americans bred larger, spotted dogs, the appearance of which was significantly different from the Japanese.

At this time, dogs from Japan and the USA could be seen at European exhibitions. This caused so much confusion in the examination that the breeds were soon divided into two. The American Akita Club was founded in 1956. The American Akita took shape as a breed in 1960, was admitted to exhibitions in the USA in 1972, and a separate standard for it appeared in 1996.

The USA, Canada and the UK still consider Japanese and American Akitas to be the same breed.

Akita is one of seven breeds that have received national treasure status in Japan.

Breed lovers attend annual celebrations at Shibuya Station dedicated to Tokyo University professor Eisaboru Ueno's dog, Hachiko.

It is curious that for a long time there was a conflict between Japanese and American breeders. The fact is that the country that originated the breed has all the rights to its standard and dictates the breeding rules. It turned out that the American subspecies of Akita cannot be exhibited at FCI shows as a separate breed, and these dogs must be judged according to the Japanese standard, which does not suit them at all. That is why in 1999 the FCI recognized the existence of two subspecies of Akita, calling the American Akita a large Japanese dog, and the Japanese simply Akita Inu. The Americans did not like this name and these dogs are still secretly called American Akitas, not paying attention to the officially accepted name of the breed.

Prices for American Akita puppies

Despite the large number of litters, the American breed is still a rare and expensive breed in our country. The minimum price for a puppy is $5, and a cool show dog can be purchased for at least $1,000, or even more.

Of course, in this situation, purchasing such a puppy on the poultry market is almost impossible. However, refuseniks regularly appear in the breed - dogs that the owners could not cope with and returned them to the kennel or are adopted relatively inexpensively. For those who want to get such a dog, it is important to understand that it has a number of behavioral problems that not every owner and trainer can solve.

It is not surprising that American Akitas are now often purchased as a kind of luxury item, confirmation of the high status of the owner of the puppy. Impressive size, excellent balance and elegant color make American Akitas favorites at dog shows, where they often win not only the BEST of their group, but also the overall BEST.