Breeds
Akita: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
An Akita is a large, dignified, deeply loyal dog that is affectionate with its family and reserved with everyone else. Akitas are quiet, clean and calm at home, but they can be reactive with other dogs, shed heavily in season and need firm, consistent training. They suit experienced owners. Here is what VCA Animal Hospitals and the AKC say about the breed.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
Akita temperament and personality
VCA describes the Akita as loyal and protective, often reserved with strangers, and says it may be reactive or aggressive with other dogs, so early socialization is important. Akitas tend to bond very closely with their own people.
Most Akitas are quiet, dignified and calm indoors, and they tend to keep themselves clean. Their protectiveness is real, though, and it needs management with visitors and in public. VCA notes they may prefer to be the only dog in the home.
How big do Akitas get?
VCA gives a height of 24 to 28 inches and a weight of 70 to 130 pounds, and the AKC's breed weight chart lists the same 70 to 130 pounds. Neither source splits the figures by sex.
Akitas are heavy-boned and powerful. Keep a growing puppy lean to protect developing joints, and ask your vet about a large-breed puppy diet and a healthy adult weight for your dog's frame.
Akitas mature slowly and may keep filling out into their second or third year. Weigh your dog every month or two and adjust food with your vet's guidance rather than by eye, since the thick coat hides weight.
Akita lifespan and common health issues
VCA gives a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. It lists hip and elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation in puppies; gastric dilatation-volvulus, which it calls a life-threatening emergency, pemphigus foliaceus, an immune-mediated skin disease, and hypothyroidism in adults; and progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts in seniors.
Ask a breeder for hip, elbow, eye and thyroid results on both parents. Ask your vet about preventive gastropexy. A swollen belly with unproductive retching is an emergency; crusting sores on the nose, ears or feet should be seen promptly.
Exercise needs
VCA recommends moderate daily activity and rates energy as moderate to high, saying Akitas do best with structured exercise and routine. Two good walks a day and some play in a secure yard suit most adults.
VCA notes the thick coat can make Akitas sensitive to heat, so exercise early and late in summer. Keep the dog leashed in public, and avoid dog parks given the breed's possible reactivity with other dogs.
Akita grooming and shedding
VCA rates grooming as moderate and recommends weekly brushing. Shedding is moderate most of the year but can be heavy in seasonal periods, when the undercoat comes out in large amounts.
An undercoat rake and a slicker brush are the main tools, with daily brushing during a heavy shed. VCA also lists nail trimming and ear care. Start handling paws, ears and mouth in puppyhood.
Never shave an Akita's double coat to help with shedding or heat; the coat insulates against both. Bathe only a few times a year, and dry the undercoat thoroughly afterward to protect the skin.
Training an Akita
VCA says Akitas need structured, firm and positive training for reliable behavior. They are intelligent but independent, and repetition can bore them.
Start socialization early with many calm people and well-mannered dogs, and keep it going. Teach a solid recall, leave it and calm greetings, and work with a trainer experienced in guardian breeds if you can.
Akitas tend to tune out drills they find pointless. Keep sessions short, use food the dog values highly, and stop while it is still keen. Consistency from every family member matters more than the number of commands.
Are Akitas good with kids and other pets?
VCA says Akitas are generally good with children under supervision. Teach children not to crowd, hug or tease the dog, and supervise visiting children, who may be seen as outsiders.
VCA says Akitas may be reactive with other dogs and may prefer to be the only dog. Cats and small pets need careful introductions and constant supervision.
Feed an Akita away from other pets and children, and do not allow children to take food or toys from it. Clear house rules and supervision prevent most problems before they start.
What an Akita needs at home
A high, secure fence, an extra-large crate, a durable bed and a cool spot in summer are the basics. A strong harness or collar and a sturdy leash are essential for walks.
For care, keep an undercoat rake, a slicker brush, a nail grinder, ear cleaner and a dog toothbrush, plus durable chews and puzzle feeders. Ask your vet about bloat risk and a feeding routine early.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Akitas live?
VCA gives a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. Joint, eye and thyroid screening of the parents and knowing the signs of bloat are the main health points for owners.
What is an Akita's temperament like?
VCA describes Akitas as loyal and protective, reserved with strangers, and possibly reactive with other dogs. They need early socialization and firm, positive training. Your vet can advise on what suits your own pet.
How big do Akitas get?
The AKC lists males at 26 to 28 inches and 100 to 130 pounds, and females at 24 to 26 inches and 70 to 100 pounds.
Do Akitas shed a lot?
VCA says shedding is moderate most of the year but can be heavy in seasonal periods. Weekly brushing, and daily during a shed, keeps it under control.
Are Akitas good with other dogs?
Not always. VCA says Akitas may be reactive or aggressive with other dogs and may prefer to be the only dog in the home, so early socialization and careful introductions are essential.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
