Large breed

Akita Puppies

Loyal companion with a heart of gold

  • Great with kids
  • Active breed
  • Alert watchdog
  • Protective
  • Quiet

We do not have Akita puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.

  • Adult weight 70–130 lbs
  • Height 24–28 in
  • Lifespan 10–15 years
  • Exercise 90 min a day
Large, fluffy Akita with a brindle coat standing proudly, ears perked up

About the Akita

The Akita is a majestic and powerful breed of dog, known for its noble appearance and loyal nature. This breed has roots in Japan, where it was originally bred for hunting large game, which speaks to its strength and endurance. Akitas are renowned for their devotion to their families, making them excellent companions for those who are committed to a loving bond. They thrive in an environment where they can be part of family activities and will protect those they hold dear.

Read more about the Akita Show less

With a moderate energy level, Akitas require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks and playtime are essential, but they are also content to relax at home with their families. While not suited for small apartments due to their larger size and need for space, they do well in homes with yards where they can roam and explore. Although they can be reserved around strangers, their affectionate nature makes them gentle companions for children if socialized properly from a young age.

Grooming an Akita is relatively manageable, with a monthly brushing to keep their thick coat looking its best and to manage shedding. They aren’t heavy shedders, so you can enjoy their company without an overwhelming amount of fur around your home. When it comes to training, Akitas are intelligent and eager to please, but they require a consistent and patient approach. They can be somewhat stubborn, yet their loyalty and willingness to learn make them easy to work with for devoted owners. If you are searching for an independent yet loving breed that will become a loyal family member, consider welcoming an Akita into your home. If you’re thinking about adding one of these remarkable dogs to your family, stop by Petland Pembroke Pines to learn more.

Akita breed profile

Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.

Temperament

  • Affection Very affectionate
  • Playfulness Calm
  • With strangers Wary
  • Territorial Very territorial
  • Prey drive High

Family & other pets

  • Young children Older kids only
  • Older children Good
  • Other dogs Prefers to be the only dog
  • Cats Not advised

Energy & exercise

  • Energy High
  • Mental stimulation High

Training

  • Trainability Quick to learn
  • Intelligence Very bright
  • Stubbornness Stubborn

Care & upkeep

  • Shedding Light
  • Drooling Minimal
  • Barking Occasional

Home life

  • Apartment living Needs real space
  • Time alone Most of a day
  • Cold weather Comfortable
  • Warm weather Needs shade

A good match for

  • First-time owners Some experience helps
  • Senior owners Good
  • Running partner Good
  • Hiking Good
  • Therapy work Unlikely
  • Guarding Strong guardian

Living with a Akita

Temperament & Family Fit

Akitas are known for their strong bonds with family members, offering a protective yet affectionate demeanor. While they can be independent and aloof with strangers, their loyalty and love for their family make them reliable companions. They do best in families that can provide plenty of love and a steady environment, especially as they can be a bit reserved around younger kids or other pets.

Energy & Exercise

This breed has a moderate energy level, which means they enjoy daily exercise but aren't hyperactive. Daily walks, playtime, and mental challenges are essential to keep your Akita happy and healthy. Regular activity helps satisfy their physical needs, leading to a well-rounded, content companion.

Care & Grooming

Akitas have a grooming frequency of about once a month, which is relatively low compared to some breeds. While they do shed moderately, especially during seasonal changes, a good brushing will keep their coat looking its best and help manage stray hairs around the home. Regular grooming also presents a wonderful opportunity to bond with your furry friend and check for any health issues.

Training Notes

With an admirable trainability score, Akitas respond well to consistent, positive reinforcement training methods. Early socialization and obedience training is essential to nurture their protective instincts and assure they know their boundaries. With the right guidance, these intelligent dogs can be both obedient and a joy to have around, making them excellent family companions.

Caring for a Akita

Grooming
Monthly brushing
Grooming cost
Average
Monthly food
High
Outdoor space
A yard is recommended
Allergy friendly
Not considered hypoallergenic

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Akita's energy level like?

Akitas are considered to have a moderate energy level. They enjoy regular exercise, such as daily walks or playtime in a secure yard, but they also appreciate lounging around with their family. Keeping them engaged with activities will help maintain their happy and balanced nature.

Are Akitas good with kids?

Akitas can be good with young kids, but it's important to supervise interactions due to their large size and strong personalities. Early socialization and training can help them learn how to interact safely with children. Each Akita has its own temperament, so getting to know individual dogs is crucial.

How much grooming does an Akita need?

Akitas have a moderate grooming frequency, requiring grooming about once a month. They do shed occasionally, so regular brushing during shedding season can help manage loose fur. Their thick double coat helps keep them warm, but it also means they benefit from a little extra care to keep their coat healthy.

Can Akitas live in an apartment?

Akitas are not particularly apartment-friendly due to their large size and need for space to move around. They thrive best in a home with a yard where they can play and exercise. If you live in an apartment, be sure to commit to daily outdoor activities.

How trainable is an Akita?

Akitas are quite trainable, especially when using positive reinforcement techniques and consistency. They are intelligent and eager to please, but their independent nature may require a patient and firm approach. Early training and socialization are key to helping them become well-rounded companions.

Similar Breeds