Before you rescue an Akita...THINK...

• What do I want my dog to be like? 

• How will this dog fit into my lifestyle? 

• What is my living situation? 

• Consider what your needs are and what the dog's needs will be.  Do they conflict? 

• Think of the dogs you've enjoyed owning in the past.  Were they easygoing or intense?  Self-willed, or independent; outgoing or reserved; placid or energetic? 

       Then ask yourself if you have the TIME needed to devote to socializing, training, and loving your dog.

       The Akita is an extremely intelligent, large, energetic, and strongly territorial dog whose life is oriented toward his owners.  If he is the right dog for you, he is one of the most rewarding breeds to own, but this is also a demanding breed, and should not be casually added to the household on a whim.

       Will you enjoy owning an Akita?
If you are looking for a bright, sensitive, responsive dog with whom you will be able to spend time, will be able to train and will be protective and loyal and devoted to you and your family for the rest of his life, then perhaps you will enjoy owning an Akita.

       The Akita can be a guard dog.  He feels that one of his jobs is to protect his family.  You don't need to train him to do this; it comes naturally to him.  He will be watchful of people on your property, expressing suspicion with a low rumble; Akitas are not barkers.  They quickly learn to differentiate between strangers and friends.  Akitas are not tolerant of other dogs especially those of the same sex.  UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD AN AKITA BE ALLOWED TO ROAM THROUGH THE NEIGHBORHOOD!!

       The Akita, although a large dog, does not require huge amounts of exercise.  It will thrive on a moderate amount of exercise and enjoys playing energetically.  You will be happier and so will your dog if you choose a breed that fits into your present lifestyle.  Don't expect to change your way of life once you've acquired a dog.

       Akitas do not shed on a continual basis; however, they do "blow their coats" about twice a year.  As the new coat is beginning to grow into place, large tufts of hair will loosen.  The coat can be easily removed by using an undercoat rake or wire slicker brush.  The dog seems to enjoy this extra attention and if done on a regular basis as the coat is shedding, the new coat will come in more quickly.

       The Akita is a working dog.  The working dog group includes some of the most intelligent breeds of dogs.  You'll be amazed at how quickly he learns, and at the number of things you can teach him. 

       But his intelligence carries an obligation with it.  An Akita won't be happy if left alone in a pen or house all day.  A working dog enjoys life most when he is given a responsibility and a job to do, whether the job is obedience, back-packing, or hunting.  The Akita demands your attention and thrives on it when trained and worked regularly.

DON'T BUY AN AKITA because of the pictures you've seen, stories you've read or because they are the "IN THING".  MEET THE DOGS.  Watch them at shows and visit them at home.  There is a big difference between a cute eight-week-old ball of fur and a full grown adult.  If, after all of that, you still want an Akita, then welcome to a most pleasurable experience.