Japanese Akita Inu

Like every breed, the Japanese Akita Inu is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Use consistent, reward-based training; shouting simply makes them tune out.
• Start socialisation early and keep it going throughout their life, especially around strangers and other dogs.
• Begin recall and loose-lead walking young, because of their size and strength.
• Keep sessions varied, as they get bored of repeating the same thing.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Can be selective about other dogs.

• Cats and small pets

  Often has a strong instinct to chase small animals.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually needs a roomy home.

• Garden

  A secure garden is strongly advised.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Best with an experienced owner.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Hip dysplasia

  A condition affecting the hip joint that can lead to pain and mobility problems. The Royal Kennel Club recommends hip scoring under the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme.

• Elbow dysplasia

  The Royal Kennel Club recommends elbow testing under the BVA/KC Elbow Dysplasia Scheme as part of best-practice health testing.

• Amelogenesis imperfecta / familial enamel hypoplasia (AI/FEH)

  An inherited disorder in which tooth enamel does not develop properly. A DNA test is available and is part of the Royal Kennel Club's best-practice testing.

• Gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat)

  A life-threatening condition that needs immediate veterinary attention.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

  A degenerative eye condition that can cause blindness.

• Entropion

  A painful eye condition in which the eyelids roll inwards.

• Autoimmune and skin conditions

  The breed can be affected by autoimmune diseases, including hypothyroidism and skin problems such as sebaceous adenitis, which affects the skin glands and causes dry skin and hair loss.

• Cruciate ligament injury

  Knee injuries are common in large breeds like the Akita.

• Genetic diversity

  The Royal Kennel Club lists prioritising genetic diversity as a key part of responsible breeding in this breed.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Japanese Akita Inu home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Japanese Akita Inu home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Japanese Akita Inu suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Japanese Akita Inus do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.