Akita
Massive dog made to protect
Akitas 101
Working groupThe Akita, the largest of Japan's native breeds, is known for its formidable interest in guarding people and property. The breed is independent and courageous, and decidedly not for beginners. This is a dog for experienced families willing and able to provide responsible leadership, along with consistent handling and regular training and exercise. Akitas are typically suspicious around people they do not know.
What we love about Akitas
Dignified presence and unwavering devotion
Energy level
Energy level: 50% (Moderate)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary
Size
Size: 24 to 26 inches tall. This is a Large sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- As needed
- Height
- 24 to 26 inches
- Lifespan
- 10 to 14 years
- Weight
- 70 to 130 lbs
The Akita stands 24 to 26 inches tall and weighs 70 to 130 lbs. Akitas have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a as needed bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Akitas get?
- Akitas stand 24 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 70 and 130 pounds.
- How long do Akitas live?
- The average lifespan of a Akita is 10 to 14 years.
- Are Akitas good for first-time dog owners?
- Akitas have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Akitas bark a lot?
- Akitas typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Akita health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Akita
Risk level for common Akita conditions
Mid-life Akitas should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) is at high risk.
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- High Risk
- Hypothyroid disease
- Moderate Risk
- Arthritis
- Above Average Risk
70% on risk scaleSenior Akita
Risk level for common Akita conditions
Senior Akitas face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and Hypothyroid disease and Arthritis pose very high risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Very High Risk
- Hypothyroid disease
- Very High Risk
- Arthritis
- Very High Risk
Akita puppy
Risk level for common Akita conditions
Akita puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- High Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- Moderate Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Akita
Risk level for common Akita conditions
As Akitas grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) poses very high risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Very High Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Moderate Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
Mature adult Akita
Risk level for common Akita conditions
Mid-life Akitas should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Cruciate ligament tear (knee) is at high risk.
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- High Risk
- Hypothyroid disease
- Moderate Risk
- Arthritis
- Above Average Risk
Senior Akita
Risk level for common Akita conditions
Senior Akitas face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) and Hypothyroid disease and Arthritis pose very high risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Very High Risk
- Hypothyroid disease
- Very High Risk
- Arthritis
- Very High Risk
Akita puppy
Risk level for common Akita conditions
Akita puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Gastroenteritis is at high risk.
- Gastroenteritis
- High Risk
- Urinary tract infection
- Moderate Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Akita
Risk level for common Akita conditions
As Akitas grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) poses very high risk.
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)
- Very High Risk
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
- Moderate Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Akita's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 1 year)
- Gastroenteritis: High Risk, Urinary tract infection: Moderate Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (1 year to 4 years)
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): Very High Risk, Cruciate ligament tear (knee): Moderate Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 7 years)
- Cruciate ligament tear (knee): High Risk, Hypothyroid disease: Moderate Risk, Arthritis: Above Average Risk
- Senior (8+ years)
- Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): Very High Risk, Hypothyroid disease: Very High Risk, Arthritis: Very High Risk
Helen Keller is credited with introducing the Akita to the United States. She was given one during a visit to Japan in 1937.
Akita coat care and colors
The dense double coat of the Akita stands up to cold weather with ease, and regular brushing and combing will reduce shedding.
How often should I groom my Akita?
How often should I groom my Akita?
Can I groom my Akita at home?
Can I groom my Akita at home?
What kind of brush should I use on my Akita?
What kind of brush should I use on my Akita?
Akita exercise & training
Akita fun facts
Top girl names for Akitas
of Akitas are female
of Akitas are male
Top boy names for Akitas
Nationwide loves Akitas of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Akitas insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Akita statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Akitas
Best. Akita insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free