| Origin |
Japan - 1600's. |
| Original Use |
Dog fighting, hunting, guarding. |
| Use Today |
Companion, guard dog, police dog. |
| Temperament |
It is mostly even tempered, elegant, and gentle, but requires consistent and fair obedience training. It can be stubborn and independent. It is very devoted to and protective of its family. |
| Acceptance of: |
Other Dogs - Average, but can be very challenging of other dogs if not obedience trained or properly controlled. |
| Other Pets - Average |
| Strangers - Not accepting |
| Children - Below average
|
| Watchdog Ability |
Excellent |
| Guard dog Ability |
Good |
| Ease of Training |
Below average |
| Living Conditions |
Content to live outdoors in cool or temperate climates. |
| Exercise |
Requires a great deal daily physical exercise. Mental exercise is also important. |
| Coat |
It has a two layered coat. The straight outer coat is long and harsh while the dense inner coat is shorter and soft. |
| Grooming |
Requires brushing about once a week. |
| Colors |
The Akita dog comes in a variety of colors. |
| Height and Weight |
Weight range is 70 to 110 pounds (35.8 to 50 kg) while the height range is 24 to 28 inches (61 to 71.1 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals. |
| Life Expectancy |
10 to 12 years. |
| Group |
The AKC places the Akita dog in the Working group. |