Akita

Everything you need to know about Akitas

Life Expectancytypically 10+ years
SheddingMedium length with heavy shedding
SizeLarge

Akitas are a restricted breed in Ireland, this includes strains and crosses of them. 

In accordance with the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998, while in a public place, restricted breeds must be:

  • Wearing a muzzle
  • Kept on a short strong lead (under 2m)
  • With someone over the age of 16, who is capable of controlling them
  • Wearing a collar with the name and address of their owner

Akitas are typically energetic dogs. They are large and strong with dense fur. Akitas can be a range of colours including red, white, cream and brindle. There’s lots of doggy behaviour that comes naturally to all breeds of dog, including Akitas, from digging and chasing to searching and retrieving. 

Thinking about giving an Akita a forever home? Here are some Akita facts that might help you decide.  

Caring for Akitas

Every dog is different with their own personality and needs. Here are some areas to think about when taking care of an Akita. 

Smiling Yellow Dog Cartoon

Health issues 

Before you give any dog a home, it’s important to know about possible health issues. Not every dog will suffer them but it’s good to be prepared.    

To find out more about potential health issues for ...

How much food does an Akita need? 

The amount of food an Akita needs depends on their:  

  • age  
  • size  
  • activity levels  
  • fitness  
  • weight.   

You can use the informatio...

How much exercise does an Akita need? 

Akitas are typically high-energy dogs who need lots of exercise to keep them physically and mentally healthy. They'll need daily walks, plus plenty of time and opportunity to explore, burn energy, and play.  &nbs...

How much grooming does an Akita need? 

Akitas have dense fur that sheds easily. They will need regular brushing and are likely to need professional grooming every few months. 

To help your dog feel comfortable with handling and grooming, introdu...

What size crate do you need for an Akita?

When inside their crate, your dog should have plenty of space to: 

  • sit and stand up at their full height 
  • turn around without touching the sides 
  • lie down fully stretched out&...

Akita behaviour and training

Even if you think you know about Akitas, it’s important to remember that every dog has their own personality.  

Yellow Dog Cartoon Running

What’s the temperament of an Akita? 

Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own unique personality and prior experiences. So, every Akita temperament is different.  As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop the...

Are Akitas easy to train? 

You can teach any breed of dog new tricks! It’s all about positive learning. Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Whether it’s small food treats, toys or lots of praise, tra...

Are Akitas good with children? 

Every dog has their own unique personality that has been shaped by their own experiences of the world. They’ll have their own likes and dislikes and will respond to situations in different ways. However, there are som...

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