Akita
The Akita is a large and dignified Japanese breed that originated in the mountainous regions of northern Japan, where it was developed to hunt substantial game including bear and wild boar.
Holding deep cultural significance in its homeland, the Akita is considered one of Japan's national treasures and symbolises good health, happiness, and long life.
25-34kg
Weight
Large
Size
12-14yrs
Lifespan
About the Akita
This impressive dog stands 51–61 centimetres tall and weighs 25–34 kilograms, with a powerful build, broad head, and distinctive curled tail carried over the back. The thick double coat sheds considerably, particularly during twice-yearly shedding seasons, and comes in colours including white, brindle, and pinto patterns. Akitas are profoundly loyal and patient with their own families, showing particular gentleness towards children in their household. However, they are typically reserved with strangers and can be dominant with other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Their independent nature means they require experienced, confident owners who can provide firm, consistent training and early socialisation. With exercise needs exceeding two hours daily, the Akita is best suited to owners who understand the breed's unique temperament and can commit to their development. In the right hands, an Akita becomes a devoted, trustworthy companion with a quiet, noble presence.
Akita at a Glance
- Group
- Utility
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 25–34 kg
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- More than 2 hours per day
- Typical price
- £800–£1500
Akita Temperament
The Akita is a dignified, courageous and deeply loyal breed with a calm, steady temperament. It is patient and gentle with children in its own family, and highly protective of its home. Independent by nature, the Akita can be aloof with strangers and may not always welcome other dogs, particularly those of the same sex. Early socialisation and consistent training are essential given its size and strength. This is not a breed for the inexperienced owner, but in the right hands the Akita is a devoted, trustworthy companion that brings a quiet, noble presence to family life.
Akita Lifestyle
The Akita really benefits from having plenty of space indoors and needs a good-sized, secure garden. They are equally happy in town or country.
Dog Food for Akita
Top-rated foods for Large breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Akita
Akita Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Akita weighing around 30 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£5.22 - £5.57
Per month
£157 - £167
Per year
£1906 - £2032
Akita Characteristics
The Akita needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and picks up commands quickly and responds well to training. They make a great family dog, but handle being left alone fairly well with the right routine. The coat doesn't need daily attention but benefits from regular grooming and isn't particularly heavy or light on shedding. Intelligence is a real hallmark of this breed, and they do best with plenty of mental enrichment alongside exercise.
Akita Pros & Cons
Pros
- Fiercely loyal and naturally protective of their family
- An excellent watchdog that doesn't bark without good reason
- Relatively low-maintenance coat for most of the year
- Surprisingly fun-loving, clean, and easy to house-train
Cons
- A very high prey drive makes secure containment essential
- Sheds heavily twice a year, requiring extra grooming during these periods
- Independent and strong-willed, not the easiest breed for first-time owners
- Needs early, thorough socialisation and consistent training from the start
