Akitas originated in Japan where they have been declared a national treasure. Males stand 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder. Females stand 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Their coats come in a variety of colors including black, white, brindle, and pinto. Their coats require little care other than regular brushing, but they do shed very heavily. Akitas are smart, devoted dogs. They can be dog fighters, and generally do not get along well with other dogs or animals. Akitas have natural protective instincts which need to be kept under control.

Click here to visit The Akita Club of America to find out how to rescue an Akita in need of a home or get a referral to an Akita breeder.

Potential Health Problems*

• Anesthesia and Drug Sensitivity
• Autoimmune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
• Cataracts
• Congenital Deafness
• Cushing’s Disease)
• Entropion
• Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (Bloat)
• Glaucoma
• Glycogen Storage Diseases
• Hip Dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism
• Lysosomal Storage Diseases
• Microphthalmia
• Myasthenia Gravis
• Osteochondrosis
• Pemphigus Foliaceous
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy
• Retinal Dysplasia
• Sebaceous Adenitis
• Unique Juvenile-Onset Polyarthritis
• Uveodermatological Syndrome
• Vestibular Disease
• Von Willebrand Disease

*Just because a condition is associated with a specific breed does not mean that all dogs of this breed will be affected. Likewise, a dog may be impacted by diseases and conditions not listed under his or her breed.