Daitan Ni Akitas asks you....

Is the Akita the right dog for YOU?

Before you buy an Akita puppy, THINK: What do I want my dog to be like? How will this dog fit into my lifestyle? What is my living situation? Think of the dogs you've enjoyed in the past. Were they easy-going or intense? 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 towards his owners. If he is the right dog for you, he is one of the most rewarding breeds to own, but he 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 would enjoy owning an Akita.

The Akita, although a large dog, does not require a huge amount of exercise. Like any dog, an Akita will thrive on a moderate amount of exercise and enjoys playing energetically. You, as well as your dog, will be happier 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 stripped by using a wire slicker brush. Not only will the dogs enjoy this extra attention, but if done on a regular basis as the coat is shedding, the new coat will usually come in quicker.

The Akita is a working dog. You'll be amazed at how quickly he learns and at the number of things you can teach him. But the great intelligence carries an obligation with it. An Akita won't be happy if left alone in a pen or in the house all day. A working dog enjoys life most when he is given responsibility and a job to do, whether the job is obedience, baby sitting, back packing or hunting. The Akita demands your attention and thrives on it when trained and worked with regularity. Don't buy an Akita because of 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 7 week old ball of fur and a full grown adult. Most Akita breeders are happy to explain a few of the Akita traits and spend some time showing off their proud Akitas.

After all of this, if you still feel this is the dog for you, welcome to the experience of owning one of the GREATEST DOGS IN THE WORLD!