You’ve probably stared at a picture of a fluffy Akita and wondered, “Is this the dog I want to share my life with?”. Before we dive into that topic, here’s a fun fact: Helen Keller first brought Akitas to America!
Akitas, with their double coat of fur, captivating eyes, and proud demeanor, are indeed quite a prized breed. Originating from Japan, these majestic dogs have graced the western world with their presence for over a century now. As full of personality as they are with fur, Akitas can be the perfect addition to the right family.
Not every breed of dog requires the same level of maintenance, and Akitas are no different. One of the factors that often deter potential pet owners is the perception that Akitas are a high-maintenance breed. Let’s explore that notion in detail, so you can make your choice in adopting an Akita a well-informed one.
To decode the enigma of whether Akitas are high maintenance, we’ll explore three essential aspects: grooming, exercise, and personality.
The Grooming Gauntlet
Akitas present a striking sight with their dense, plush double coat, which has a coarse outer layer and a soft undercoat. This coat is designed to protect them in cold weather. But with great fluffiness, comes great shedding. Akitas are renowned for shedding heavily, especially during the change of seasons, a period often referred to as the ‘blowing of the coat.’
Though they aren’t the breed that requires daily brushings, during the shedding season, you might want to invest time each day to manage the fluff! Professional grooming sessions may not be necessary unless you prefer a pristine, show-ready Akita. Regular baths, nail trims, and ear cleaning should suffice for this naturally clean breed. Brushing their teeth several times a week is also advisable to maintain their dental health. So, while Akitas are not the highest maintenance in terms of grooming, they do require some dedicated care.
Energizing Exercise
Exercise is an integral part of owning any dog breed, and Akitas are no exception. These dogs are high-energy and require regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. An inactive Akita can become bored – and a bored Akita can become destructive.
They love their daily walks, play sessions, and would enjoy games that stimulate them mentally. Sufficient physical activity also helps in curbing any aggressive tendencies, a trait that Akitas are often known for. One or two hours of exercise daily should suffice for an adult Akita to expend their energy. Despite this, compared to certain active breeds like Border Collies or energetic Labrador Retrievers, Akitas’ exercise requirements may seem relatively moderate.
Protector Personality
The temperament of an Akita is something account for when understanding their maintenance level. They are fiercely loyal, protective, and do not trust strangers easily. This means they require extensive socialization from a young age to ensure they can adapt and get along with other animals and humans.
Training an Akita can be challenging due to their intelligence, independence, and sometimes, a stubborn streak. While they can be quite strong-willed, consistent training from an early age can help mold them into well-rounded dogs. Patience, positive reinforcement, and perseverance are key when training an Akita.
It’s also essential to note that Akitas are not typically suitable for first-time dog owners due to their complex needs in training and socialization. While every dog claims a piece of your heart, Akitas as a breed demand a fair chunk of your time and energy as well.
Conclusion
The leaf of truth unravels itself here – Akitas are not the easiest breed to maintain, and it would be unwise to sugar-coat this fact. However, the definition of ‘high-maintenance’ spirals down to personal preference and lifestyle. If you have the time, energy, and are willing to dedicate yourself to their care, then an Akita may not prove to be ‘high-maintenance’ for you.
Like a diamond that demands its share of cutting and polishing, an Akita too, requires its share of grooming, exercise, and training. But once this is accomplished, these loyal, charming canines can shine brilliantly within your family, providing unwavering companionship – which indeed becomes priceless. Anyone who has shared their life with an Akita will affirm that the rewards of their companionship far outweigh the challenges of their care.
Curious about how you can prepare to care for an Akita? There are numerous Akita rescues and foster care systems where you can volunteer and gain firsthand experience. They are always on the lookout for help and would welcome your interest. Interacting directly with Akitas will give you insights that no amount of reading about the breed can offer.
Ready to meet the sparkly challenge of Akitas head-on? Their unconditional love, protective instincts, and unwavering loyalty are just around the corner. Armed with the knowledge of what caring for an Akita entails, you’re now better equipped to decide if an Akita is the right fit for your home – and your heart.
Remember, high maintenance doesn’t equate to a hurdle, but only a step towards a more enlightening, enjoyable journey of canine companionship. Akitas are living proof of the old adage: the best things in life are worth working for.
And hey, who ever said diamonds were low maintenance?
