Akita Inu
Japan's dignified guardian — loyal to the point of legend.
Vital stats
| Size | Large · 61–71 cm |
| Weight | 32–45 kg |
| Life expectancy | 10–13 years |
| Energy | Moderate — 45–60 min/day |
| Shedding | Heavy · twice-yearly blowouts |
| Coat | Plush double coat · red, brindle, white |
| Group | Working · FCI №255 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
Bred in Japan's snowy north to hunt boar and bear and to guard, the Akita carries itself like it remembers. It is quiet, composed and watchful — silly and warm with its own family, formally distant with everyone else — and it makes its own judgements about people, dogs and situations, then acts on them.
Habits & quirks
The Akita mumble
Talks to family in low woos and grumbles — barking is saved for genuine business.
Cat-like grooming
Washes its own face and paws; famously clean and easy to house-train.
The doorway post
Settles where it can see both you and the entrance, and keeps quiet watch.
One-family heart
Affection is total but exclusive — guests receive polite, unmistakable indifference.
Care
| Socialisation | Start early and never stop — aloofness with strangers and intolerance of dogs need lifelong management. |
| Grooming | Brush weekly, daily during the twice-yearly coat blow; never shave the double coat. |
| Training | Consistent, calm and respectful — it complies when it sees the point, not before. |
| Health | Keep it lean; watch hips, thyroid and eyes, and avoid hard exercise around meals (bloat risk). |
Common questions
Are Akitas good family dogs?
Devoted to their own family, but their size, guarding instinct and aloofness with strangers and other dogs make them best for experienced owners.
Do Akitas shed a lot?
Yes — a thick double coat that sheds year-round and blows out heavily twice a year. Regular brushing is essential; never shave it.
Are Akitas aggressive?
Not by default, but they are natural guardians with low tolerance for strange dogs. Early socialisation, secure management and an experienced hand keep that instinct in proportion.