Easy to Care for Akita Inu: Tips for Raising a Healthy
Caring for Akita Inus: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Akita Inus are generally very quiet and wellbehaved, not prone to unnecessary barking or howling. However, their bloodline includes the Shiba Inu, which can make them slightly temperamental. Be mindful not to provoke them unnecessarily.
2. Originally bred as hunting dogs, Akita Inus still retain a sense of wildness. They do not enjoy being cooped up indoors, so it's best to spend ample time taking them out for walks, runs, and play sessions. Regular exercise will keep them happy and wellrounded.
3. These dogs are highly susceptible to heartworm disease, so if you keep them outdoors, ensure that their living quarters are clean and wellmaintained. Train them to avoid wandering aimlessly.
4. Akita Inus have thick fur, but they are very clean dogs. They cannot stand the thought of being dirty. If they get soil on their coat, they will furiously shake it off, and sometimes even clean themselves like a cat. Be sure to bathe and groom your Akita regularly.
5. From a young age, expose your Akita to other dogs and strangers. Socialization training is crucial for fostering a friendly and tolerant temperament. Left isolated, they may become overly cautious or even hostile.
6. Akita Inus have a keen sense of smell and can assist their owners in hunting. Taking them on hunting trips can be a fun and rewarding experience.
7. They are not afraid of the cold, excel at chasing rabbits in the snow, and are also not afraid of water, making them excellent swimmers.
8. Akita Inus form a close bond with their family. Spending quality time together is essential for their mental and physical wellbeing. In Japan, parents often entrust their children to the care of Akita Inus.
Tip: For more information on Akita Inus, check out our article "How to Identify Purebred Akita Inus."