Before you get a puppy

秋田犬を飼いたい？

Bringing a dog into your life can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, before making the decision to bring an Akita into your home, it’s crucial to ensure that you are ready for the responsibility that comes with it.
Many people make impulsive choices, only to realize later that they aren’t adequately prepared for the dog.

While an Akita may seem a teddy bear, you should know that this clever, independent and dynamic dog is not for everyone.
Owning an Akita is a long-term committment that requires dedication, time and effort. By understanding the unique characteristics and considerations of this breed, you can ensure a harmonious and fulfilling relationship with your Akita companion.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of considering various factors before bringing a furry friend into your life.

First and foremost, it’s essential to evaluate your lifestyle and living situation.
Akita, as any other dog, requires time, attention and care. Especially with a puppy and young Akitas, you will have to dedicate the necessary time to properly train and socialize your new companion. So before getting a dog, ensure that you have the time and willingness to provide it with exercise, love and care it will need.

Consider the long-term commitment that comes with owning a dog. Akitas thrive on routine, stability and consistency. Before getting a dog, think about life changes you may experience in the coming years. Will you be able to provide a stable environment for your furry friend even if circumstances change, such as moving to a new home or starting a family? Dogs are not a disposable companions and should not be treated as such. They become a part of your family and rely on you for their well-being.

It is also crucial to asses your own readiness for the emotional responsibility that comes with owning a dog. Dogs feel a wide range of emotions, including joy, fear and sadness. They require love, attention and understanding. Consider wether you have the patience, compassion and empathy necessary to provide a safe and loving environment for your new companion.

Finally, every breed of dogs have different temperaments as well as excercise and grooming requirements.
Researching the Akita breed and its characteristics is crucial to ensure it matches your lifestyle and preferences.
Akitas are known for their loyalty and they can be excellent family dogs, but they are also independent and require a firm yet loving hand in training.
Consider factors such as their size, energy level and compatibility with other pets in our household before making a decision.

Characteristics of Akita

Loyalty and devotion
Akitas are known for their unwavering loyalty to their owners.
They form strong bonds with their families and will go to great lengths to protect and care for them.
While it is a great advantage in a well-trained dog, it can become a burden or even a significant problem in a poorly trained Akita,
when the dog starts to believe it must protect the owner and misinterprets threats.
This is why wise leadership is crucial when rising an Akita.

Independent nature
Akitas are also recognized for their independence.
While they are affectionate and sociable, they are not overly needy and can be content spending some time alone.
They do require time with the family and the owner during the day, but will also spend a significant amount of time resting in a favourite spot.
But don’t be mistaken though, they aren’t simply resint only, because of their:

Protective instinct
Akitas have strong protective and territorial instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. They may seem to rest a lot during day, but most of the time, they are very alert, observing the territory if they have such a possibility.
They are often wary of strangers and will be alert to potential threats. They’re pretty silent at the same time, known to bark very little, only when it’s really necessary.

Strong-willed
Akitas are intelligent dogs known for their strong-willed and stubborn temperament.
This can make training challenging, requiring patience and consistency.

Reserved Demeanor
They may seem serious and reserved among strangers.
At the same time, at home with the family, they can be very sociable, fun and playful dogs.
They are often described to have two faces: for the owner/family and another one for the strangers.

Other dogs and animals
Akitas have a pretty strong prey drive and may not get along well wih other animals and dogs.
Early socialization and training are crucial to manage this behavior.
Akita will use any occassion to hunt, you have to remember that and avoid dangerous  situations for wild animals.

Excercise requirement
Contrary to what many articles about Akitas may suggest, they are not very active dogs.
Yet, everyday activities are necessary to for their well-being.
Akita is a „one action” dog, apparently lazy with moderate temperament, but when there’s a need  in a moment
(remember their hunting instincts) it can become unbelievably agile and fast.

Health
Akitas are considered a pretty healthy breed, but like all breeds and animals in general – Akitas also have specific health problems, including allergies, skin problems, cancers and autoimmune disorders. Even though they seem very strong, they are very sensitive and emotional.
They can react physically to mental issues. That’s why stability and routine are so important for them.
Also proper diet is an essential factor in maintaining good health.

Longevity
Akitas have a relatively long lifespan compared to other breeds of similar size, often living between 10 to 15 years with proper care.

Understanding these characteristics is essential for potential owners to determinate if the Akita is the right breed for their lifestyle and preferences. Proper training, socialization and care are key to having a fulfilling and harmonious relationship with this wonderful breed.