The Akita Inu is handsome, calm, dignified, clean (easy to housebreak), and quiet (seldom barks). So it's understandable that he might be viewed as a desirable pet!
However.... the Akita Inu has a complex personality that makes him very challenging to raise.
Physically powerful, reserved with strangers, and protective, the Akita Inu must be accustomed to people at an early age so that his guarding instincts remain controlled rather than indiscriminate.
Akitas can be so aggressive with other dogs of the same sex that two males or two females should never be left alone together. The problem is that this breed can be difficult to "read" – often he does not "posture" (display obvious signs of aggression) – instead, an Akita may co-exist peacefully with another dog until suddenly, apparently out of the blue, a minor disagreement occurs, or perhaps the other dog pushes the Akita too far or approaches the Akita's food bowl or favorite toy, and then the Akita may attack with ferocity. Akitas can be very possessive of their food – keep children and other pets away from them during mealtime.
As you might guess, cats and other small animals are also at risk around an Akita. In general, it is simply safest to keep this breed as an only pet.
Training can be a challenge, for the Akita Inu is assertive, strong-willed, and bores easily. He may use his intelligence in ways that suit his own purposes.
Yet owners who know how to lead will find him eminently trainable via praise and reward methods. This breed must be treated with respect – absolutely no teasing – but you must insist that he return that respect, or he will walk right over you. Akitas are not a good choice for a first-time dog owner.
Unlike many other large breeds, the Akita Inu doesn't require hours of running exercise. He does well with long brisk walks and an occasional vigorous run, especially in cold weather. Akitas LOVE snow and cold.
If you want a dog who...
Is large, rugged, and powerful, with a wolf-like appearance
Has a thick coat that comes in many colors and patterns
Carries himself with a dignified, impressive presence
Looks imposing, so makes an effective deterrent
Despite his size, doesn't need a great deal of exercise
Doesn't bark much – the "strong and silent" type
Isn't clingy or overly-dependent
An Akita Inu may be right for you.
If you don't want to deal with...
Potential aggression toward people when not socialized properly
Aggression toward other animals
Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
Possessiveness of food – children and other animals should not be allowed near an Akita who is eating
Heavy shedding
Legal liabilities (public perception, future breed bans, insurance problems, increased chance of lawsuits)
An Akita Inu may not be right for you.
Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.
You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult Akitas have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up.
Finally, you can avoid some negative traits by training your Akita Inu to respect you and by following the 11-step care program in my book, 11 Things You Must Do Right To Keep Your Dog Healthy and Happy.
More traits and characteristics of the Akita Inu
If I was considering an Akita, I would be most concerned about...
Their complex temperament. Akitas are one of the most challenging breeds to understand and to raise. They are more "primitive" in their ways of thinking and their behaviors than most other breeds. Their facial expressions and body language are more subtle and thus harder to "read" than most other breeds. They have an independent mind of their own. Many Akitas are willful, obstinate, and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things.
Providing enough socialization. Many Akitas have protective instincts toward strangers. They need extensive exposure to friendly people so they learn to recognize the normal behaviors of "good guys." Then they can recognize the difference when someone acts abnormally. Without careful socialization, they may be suspicious of everyone.
Potential animal aggression. Akitas were developed to hunt other animals. Most Akitas will not tolerate another dog of the same sex, and some won't tolerate the opposite sex either. Most Akitas have strong instincts to chase and seize cats and other fleeing creatures, including deer and livestock. If anything goes wrong in the breeding, socializing, training, handling, or management of this breed, it is capable of seriously injuring or killing other animals.
Heavy shedding. Akitas shed a goodly amount. You'll find hair and fur on your clothing, upholstery, and carpeting.
Legal liabilities. Akitas may be targeted for "banning" in certain areas. Homeowners' insurance policies may be refused or revoked if you are discovered to own an Akita. Your friends and neighbors may be uncomfortable around this breed. In this day and age, the legal liabilities of owning any breed that looks intimidating and has a history as a guard dog and big game hunter should be seriously considered. People are quicker to sue if such a dog does anything even remotely questionable.