Akita

Akita

LoyalEnergeticProtective

The Akita is a large sturdy breed with a broad head and a short muzzle. They also have a muscular body with small eyes and upright ears.

Health
Personality
Lifetime Care

Breed Profile

Height

24 - 28

Inches

Weight

70 - 130

Pounds

Life Span

10 – 13

Years

Health

health

Hip Dysplasia

Affects
25%
of dogs

What is it?:

As a result of poor joint development, hip joints become lax, eventually leading to arthritis.

Clinical signs

  • Lack of activity

  • A reduction in range of motion

  • Loss of thigh muscle

  • Hopping while walking

  • Discomfort in standing

  • Loss of appetite

  • Lethargy

  • Popping sounds of joints

Treatment

Large breed dogs are often prone to Hip Dysplasia. Hip Dysplasia can also be developed due to genetics. Few treatment options are:

  • Joint supplements

  • Physical therapy

  • Total hip replacement surgery

  • Double or triple pelvic osteotomy

  • Femoral head ostectomy

  • Acupuncture

Eligible vet bill

$3,500

Reimbursement Rate

Amount a Spot accident & illness plan could cover*

$3,150

Your Net payment

$350

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*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.

health

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Affects
20%
of dogs

What is it?:

In this illness, stomach contents and gas are trapped in the stomach by rotating. Ultimately the stomach tissue may die and lead to a rupture.

Clinical signs

Early signs of Gastric Dilation Volvulus are:

  • Bloating

  • Drooling

  • Stomach pain

  • Collapsing

  • Vomiting

Treatment

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus can be fatal and the most common treatment is to get the stomach reversed through an operation. Other treatments include:

  • Parts of the stomach may have to be removed after surgery

  • A fluid drip helps with their dropping blood pressure.

  • Pain medication can be prescribed

Eligible vet bill

$2,000

Reimbursement Rate

Amount a Spot accident & illness plan could cover*

$1,800

Your Net payment

$200

Click For Price

*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://www.spotpetinsurance.ca/sample-policy for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.

Personality

Courageous

The Akita has a strong wilful street and can serve to be great protectors of the family. They are good in challenging situations and will not back down.

Loyal

The Akita dog breed is very affectionate and loyal to its family and will follow you around just to please its owner.

Social

The Akita may be aloof around strangers but they need companionship. They do not do well when left alone. They like to be around their family.

Lifetime Care

Coat

They have a soft and thick undercoat, while their overcoat is dense and short.

Colors

The Akita is available in white, brindle, sesame and red fawn, silver, and mixed colors.

Hypoallergenic

No

Grooming

The Akita has grooming requirements as they shed quite a bit of its fur. Their fur may be all over the sofas and chairs. One may need to vacuum often. They may shed more once or twice a year. Their coat needs to be brushed weekly.

Training

The Akita is a slightly stubborn breed and needs to be trained from the get-go. They can be bored easily and require sessions that keep them interested. They respond well to positive reinforcements and praise.

The Akita originates in the rural and cold region of Odate, located in northern Japan. Their existence dates back to the 1600s. They were trained to hunt and fight dogs and even excel at police work. The Akita is a fearless, strong, and devoted dog breed. They are very close to their family and will do anything to keep them safe.

Akita: Introduction to the Dog Breed

The Akita is a loyal and affectionate dog breed with the following

Akita Physical Characteristics:

  • Small eyes

  • Erect ears

  • Broadhead

  • Curled tail

  • Muscular body

Akita Dog is best suited for pet owners:

  • Who has time to train their pet

  • Who are not first-time owners

  • Who are looking for a loyal and affectionate pet

  • Who can take charge, as these dogs can be willful and stubborn

Things to watch out for before deciding to own an Akita Dog

  • The Akita does not do well if left alone and needs companionship.

  • They can be stubborn pets and require proper training. They need to be dealt with with patience and tact.

  • They love to carry things around and carry small toys or objects around the house.

  • They love to go on walks and will lead you to their leash.

  • The Akita also has cat-like tendencies. They lick their fur to groom themselves.

What should an Akita Dog eat?

The Akita needs to be fed 3-5 cups a day as they are a large breed. They will perform well if a balance between wet and dry food is given to them. They need to be given food that is rich in proteins as they have an active lifestyle. Their diet should consist of healthy fats, vegetables, and appropriate proteins. They should not be overfed as they are a large dog breed and have the tendency to store fats.

Conclusion

The Akita is a wonderful dog breed to own. They may not be your lap dog, but they have proved to be affectionate and devoted to their families. The more you get to know them, the more you fall for the tender giants that they are. They may be a large hunting breed, but they can also be funny and loving and make their way into your hearts. They may be courageous and strong, but they need human companionship, and once you are a part of their life, they will protect you till the very end and follow you around.

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