CHARACTER
Each of us can read in the breed standard: "character/temperament: balanced, faithful, docile and understanding". We completely agree with the above, but we would like to bring you a little closer look to the Akita as we know it. But please, this is only our own opinion, we certainly do not claim that every Akita must be just as we describe it... After all, it is a living creature and they have the right to be different...
When someone asks us, "What is Akita Inu like?" We usually answer him/her with one voice: "stubborn and slow"... But that's only one side of the coin.
It is true that Akitas need a specific approach that involves mostly fairness, consistency, and understanding. Since we also deal with Akitas in addition to dog shows and sports cynology (except defenses), where the handler needs the dog to react quickly, we had to learn to understand the Akitas really well. Primarily, Akitas are not used for such activities, because they were bred in the past for independent evaluation of situations (like all hunting breeds) and even the newer intention of breeding, as a social breed, does not help to sports use. Of course, this is not to say that you should not do sports with Akitas, on the contrary – these are great activities that your Akita will love! (and I hope that in time also you :))
As for the very good know "Akita speed", most of the time it really is a "slow teddy bear"... But just wait until the first deer on the walk... You will see a different speed and work commitment... Of course, it also depends on the mood of the owner of the Akita. If you are an avid athlete, Akita will be happy to run or actively spend time with you. On the other hand, if you are more of a "walking type" and spend your time in cafes, Akita will be satisfied with this form of workload. (But in moderation please, this is still a big breed that needs movement! Although the Akita may sometimes try to convince you that this is not the case... Especially when it's raining outside...)
We think that the #1 for a happy "You-Akita" relationship is the consistency, Akita must know its borders, which of course set you. And the sooner you set them up, the better for both of you... But on the other hand, it should also be your duty to set those borders sensibly so that they are mutually beneficial. Because the most beautiful moment is when the Akita does not respect you out of fear, but mainly because of what it brings to her/him... Whether it's your smile, caress, or even a treat...
If there is anything the Akitas have taught us, it would definitely be patience. Although the Akitas learn more slowly, they never forget... Which, by the way, is a double-edged sword, so please be careful that no one ever hurts your Akita, he/she will remember it for life... And not only because of their memory, but Akitas are also very sensitive, receptive and empathetic. So please don't let her/him hurt her/ him on a psychological, emotional and mental level.
If you plan to train with the Akitas, you will surely encounter Akita "stubbornness" like we do. But perhaps, rather than stubbornness, we would call it "independent thinking." Unfortunately, a lot of people think and expect a dog to do "everything the owner says"... With Akitas, it doesn't work at all because they think about the things that are happening around them and it often happens that they know that what you want from them has no benefit for them, so of course they will not do anything... As we often say, it is a dog "with its own opinion" :). It is then up to you to find out what exactly your Akita is "worth trying" and what is not. This will make your life together much easier. Our advice is that Akitas respond very well even to the intonation of the voice. And with it, one can really win... And of course, for some goodness, Akita will do a lot for some treat too...
And finally, the most beautiful quality of the Akita – loyalty. Yes, Akitas will really love you, they are great companions and can forgive any mistake. However, please keep in mind that she/he also has her/his own pride and needs space. You can't force anyone to love... The relationship with the Akita is constantly evolving and thus becomes more and more solid. But it takes its time.
(Due to Akitas loyalty and relationship to their owner, we do not recommend keeping Akitas in a pen/separated from you and your family. Akita needs a close and daily relationship/cantact with her family to live a happy life.