Akita Breed Profile
The Akita breed of dog is loyal, strong-willed, and somewhat fashionable making it one of the most expensive breeds to buy in Australia.
Whether you want more information on Akita dogs or looking to adopt an Akita puppy, then our Akita breed profile is the perfect starting point!
Also known as
Akita is the most common name for the breed, but they are also commonly known worldwide as the Japanese Deerhound, and lesser known as the Nippon Inu.
About the Akita breed
The Akita is the medium-sized and standard variety of the Japanese Inu. This ancient breed was at one time threatened with extinction, but revived by Mr. Hiroshi Saito, who pioneered the breed in nations outside of Japan.
In June, 1928, the Nippon Inu Hozonkai (Society for the Preservation of Japanese Dogs) was formed to popularise this artistic breed of dog.
In Japan, the Akita breed has been used mostly for boar and deer-hunting. It is less well known in other countries, although a brace were imported into England from Japan in 1937 from which an English foundation stock was bred.
The Akita is a typical Spitz, with broad-pointed skull, stiff fur on the back but softer hair elsewhere, and a curled, gay and bushy tail.
Akita temperament & lifestyle
In most cases the Akita will be a very loyal and affectionate family member, but as an independent dog they prefer to have full attention and tend not to get along with other family pets.
They are loyal but also protective of their home and family, so be wary of other dogs approaching their territory. Akitas range in size which makes some of the larger sizes of the breed can be difficult to control for some.
They are a beautiful breed and can make very good pets when thoroughly stimulated, trained, and integrated, but make sure they are the breed for you as these dogs are not for everyone.
Are Akita easy to train?
Akita’s thrive on mental stimulation. They’re a highly intelligent breed and known to get bored and unsettled easily, so training them and involving them in your daily routine and chores will offer them stimulation, happiness, and eagerness to learn. Due to their intelligence and astuteness they are easier to train than average.
Feeding & dietary requirements
All dogs need a high quality diet rich in meat and other “whole prey” ingredients, and the Akita breed is no different.
If raw is not for you then at least opt for a more premium diet such as air or freeze dried, BARF, or a high end small breed kibble.
Vital statistics
Height 20-23 1/2 in., bitches 18 3/4-21 1/4 in.
Colours: white (except Army Dogs), fawn, wheaten, black, grey, brindle, and black-and-tan.
Buying an Akita puppy
How much do Akita puppies cost?
Akita puppies have become somewhat fashionable in Australia and as such have become one of the most expensive dog breeds. Although it’s possible to buy an Akita puppy for as little as $1500, most sell around the $4500 mark from a reputable breeder.
Where can I buy an Akita puppy near me?
The Akita breed is not overly common so expect to travel to find a suitable and trusted breeder.
The best starting point for finding an Akita puppy in Australia is to search the Australian Association of Pet Dog Breeders (AAPDB) Member List. Full members have had their premises audited by a registered veterinarian for compliance against the AAPDB Code of Ethics, which means they meet animal welfare standards.
Individual states have their own organisations in which breeders can become members.
Dog breeder organisations by Australian state:
- Australian Capital Territory: Dogs ACT – Find a Breeder
- New South Wales: Dogs NSW – Find a Breeder
- Northern Territory: Dogs NT – Find a Breeder
- South Australia: Dogs SA – Find a Breeder
- Western Australia: Dogs West – Find a Breeder
- Victoria: Dogs Victoria – Find a Breeder
How can I tell a good breeder?
A good breeder will be listed by one of the above organisations, but there are many ways to tell if they’re responsible or not.
Social media recommendations from other local dog owners can help point you in the right direction, but always take due diligence when buying a puppy.
A good breeder will always be happy to answer questions, allow for multiple viewings, and should not be pushy in any way. When picking up the puppy they should be willing for you to go to their premises, not ask to meet in a park or public place.
Good breeders will be proactive in asking you questions to ensure you will be a responsible dog owner, and will supply you with an information pack. Many will ask you to sign a contract to ensure the puppy is taken care of, or if they find out this is not the case they will have a legal right to reclaim the puppy.
Further information
If you have any further information on the Akita dog then please comment below and we will add it to the Akita breed profile. Thank you.
