The Akita is simple yet complex and here is some basic Akita info. It is known for its prowess as a hunter, ferocity as a fighter, unwavering family or pack loyalty and free-thinking intellectual ability. Akitas are said to be aloof with strangers; yet often they will not hesitate in greeting many people for the first time. Their reputation for dog-aggression is accurate to a degree, depending on the individual personality of the dog; yet the Akita does not as a rule attack (or aggress by definition), instead it protects or defends its surrounding space from unwelcome invaders.

Akitas are natural hunters. They were originally bred as hunters in Japan. Game could be as small as a squirrel or as large as a Yezo bear. That hunter's spirit thrives in our breeding lines. Our foundation bitch, Ch Classic's Gold Nugget was observed three different occasions jumping up and snagging a bird in mid-flight. Teddy Bear, our first Akita, lived for the opportunity to chase and capture game, particularly possums.

In the framework of the hunting spirit, Akitas are well known for being "catters." Usually the Akita raised from puppyhood in a household with cats will tolerate the feline housemates; however, the dog will dispatch the neighbor cats without hesitation or remorse. We placed an 18-month-old Nugget grandson with a lady whose elderly Akita had recently passed. The four house cats were used to sleeping on the old dog's body; so they assumed the new dog would readily accept them and their habits. Remarkably, after a short period of adjustment, "Saint" did in fact become their champion. But as we point out to all potential Akita owners, be aware of breed stereotypes while observing for individual personality traits.

When looking at the Akita, or any dog, the prospective Akita owner should first consider his or her individual and/or the family's lifestyle. The following are offered as considerations when shopping:
• Akitas are not necessarily a good choice for a family with small children. The Akita may protect the child even at inopportune times, like when the children play or roughhouse with each other or when the parents discipline the child in proximity to the dog.
• Akitas do not require a lot of room to run. Generally, it is good to provide any dog with an exercise program to help develop and maintain good muscle tone, but bathroom opportunities a couple times per day can cover the absolute basic necessity for survival.
• Akitas are double-coated, and therefore insulated against extreme temperatures. Do not shave this breed for summer heat nor leave it outside unprotected in the dead of winter simply because it is a "nordic breed." The optimum temperature range for an Akita is from 45 to 65 degrees, but the dog is most comfortable sharing the night in your bed.
• Akitas learn best with a firm hand connected to a good heart. Harsh corrections or negative reinforcement generally result in the dog shutting down or else rebelling against an authority he does not yet respect. The firm hand offers resistance against a hard headed canine action. Praise, with or without rewards, is the reassurance the dog needs to learn of our expectations. Generally, the Akita tends to pick up on our commands and requests faster than the average dog if asked in an acceptable manner.

For more Akita info, don't hesitate to contact us.