American Akita
Summary
The American Akita developed separately from the Akita Inu after World War II, when American soldiers brought Akitas from Japan to the United States and crossed them with other breeds. While Japan reconsolidated the original Akita (Akita Inu), the American Akita pursued its own development path in the USA, becoming a distinct breed by the FCI in 1999. It is larger, heavier, and accepts all colors, including a black mask — not permitted in the Akita Inu.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 66–71 cm
- Height (female)
- 61–66 cm
- Weight (male)
- 45–60 kg
- Weight (female)
- 32–45 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 10–13 years
- Coat
- Double; coarse and straight outer coat; soft and dense undercoat
- Common Colors
- All colors, including pinto (white with patches covering more than one third of the body); black mask permitted
Temperament & Personality
The American Akita shares many temperament characteristics with the Akita Inu: it is courageous, loyal, dominant, and reserved with strangers. It is typically more tolerant of children and larger families than the Akita Inu, but maintains the same territorial instinct and tendency toward dominance with other dogs. It is a naturally protective dog.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate
- Shedding
- Heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Myasthenia gravis
- Sebaceous adenitis
- Uveodermatologic syndrome (VKH)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Hip and elbow evaluation (OFA)
- Thyroid evaluation
Compatibility
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
