American Akita

 🐾 Express story  

The American Akita shares its roots with the Japanese Akita (Akita Inu), a breed originating from Japan. Originally used as a fighting dog, the Akita was crossed with Mastiffs and Tosas to create a larger and more powerful dog. After World War II, breeders crossed the Akita with German Shepherds to prevent the breed from becoming extinct. This is how the distinction between the Japanese Akita and the American Akita was born.  

 🐕 Portrait of the breed  

The American Akita is a large, robust, and muscular dog, but with a tender heart. Both protective and calm, it excels as a guard dog. Despite its imposing stature, it is often compared to a "teddy bear" due to its affectionate nature towards its family. Although it is less demonstrative with strangers and other animals, it is loyal and calm at home..  

 🔍 In short  

- Hypoallergenic: No  

- Weight: 45-60 kg (male), 35-60 kg (female)  

- Size: 66-71 cm (male), 61-66 cm (female)  

- Life expectancy: 10-12 years  

- Need for physical activity: 1.5 to 2 hours per day  

❤️ Personnality & compatibility  

- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Protector: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

- Player: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Hunter: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Sporty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Independent: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

Compatibility:  

- With the children: ⭐☆☆☆☆  

- With the animals: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- With the unknows: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- In apartment: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

> Good to know: The American Akita is not a dog recommended for families with young children or for those with other pets. It has a strong guarding instinct and can be wary of strangers, but it is generally calm and protective of its family. It requires an experienced owner who can manage its temperament and needs.  

 🛠 Hygiene & care  

- Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

> It is recommended to brush the American Akita once a week. Brushing becomes more frequent during shedding season (2-3 times a week). Bathing is rarely necessary, unless the dog is particularly dirty.  

 💰 Budget  

- Purchase price: 1500 to 2500 €  

- Average annual cost: $800 to $1550 (veterinarian, accessories, food)  

💡 Fun fact: Although it is an excellent guard dog, the American Akita is known for its dedication and affection towards its loved ones, giving it a perfect balance between strength and tenderness.  

> A large but gentle dog, ideal for those looking for a protective and loyal companion, but who can be a challenge with other animals and young children.