The Akita Inu: origin, size and character

The

is a large, calm and intelligent dog.

If the Shiba Inu is the most famous of Japanese dogs, the Akita Inu is gaining ground in the hearts of the French.

This loyal dog is perfect for family life, but can be suspicious of strangers.

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Origin

The Akita Inu is a large dog native to Japan, from the province of Akita from which it takes its name.

It is a very old breed of dog, initially used as a hunting dog, over time it becomes a guard dog and a fighting dog.

She was sometimes crossed with other Japanese dogs like the Tosa.

On the verge of extinction after World War II, breeders are doing everything to save the breed and regain its ancestral characteristics.

The Akita Inu is today a protected breed.

The international cynological federation recognized the breed in 1964. It is also

.

The Akita Inu is one of the emblems of Japan Adobe_Stock

Character

The Akita Inu is an intelligent and independent dog.

If it can be stubborn, it is a dog which, if it is educated young, can understand and apply many instructions.

A sensitive dog, the Akita requires patient and experienced masters who will take the time necessary to teach him obedience.

He is a calm dog, loyal and attached to the members of his household.

He can be more cautious or even suspicious of strangers, which can make him an excellent watchdog.

If the Akita Inu can live in an apartment (because it is a very calm dog that will adapt to your level of activity), its physique and its thick and waterproof coat make it a dog that will also appreciate the outdoor life. .

Read alsoDiscover 10 dog breeds to live in an apartment

Physical

Sometimes compared to the Alaskan Malamute or the Siberian Husky, the Akita Inu is a large dog with a slender build.

He has a sturdy and powerful body.

A male Akita can measure up to 70 cm at the withers, females are very slightly smaller measuring between 55 and 65 cm.

The Akita is a heavy dog ​​since it can weigh up to 50kg.

Its head is slender and well proportioned with large dark brown almond eyes.

Its tail in spitz (raised on the back) is thick.

Akita Inu with a brindle coat.

Adobe Stock

The Akita Inu has a short and very thick coat with an undercoat protecting it from winter temperatures.

The Akita Inu's coat is generally fawn, white or streaked with black (brindle).

Its coat gives the Akita Inu a plush look.

Read alsoDiscover 5 breeds of white dog

Price

The price of an

varies according to the breedings and the pedigree of the line.

Male and female will not cost you the same price.

It takes between 1,000 and 2,500 euros for a puppy.

The most prestigious lines registered in the LOF can reach 3000 euros.

Health

The Akita Inu is a healthy dog.

However, it can be prone to two autoimmune diseases:

• sebaceous adenitis (skin disease, hair loss)

• VKH (depigmentation of the skin, inflammation of the eye and brain)