Akita Socialization 101

Akita Socialization. Many people believe that Akitas are dangerous, or that Akitas aren't good with other dogs, or that Akitas don't like strangers.
While the Akita may have strong genetic traits, proper socialization of your Akita is extremely important. In this video we talk about all of the tips and tricks to properly train and socialize your Akita.
To read our full article on Akita socialization, please go to our website:
theakitalife.com/best-ways-to...
If you own an Akita, pet insurance is a must! Here is what we use:
bit.ly/3x1R6XO

[@katyrebel18]

It's the me not having a dog learning about an Akita for no reason

[@TheAkitaLife]

Hey why not?

[@mikemuller59405]

Me too🤣

[@kaimiller5796]

Same

[@bluetaff9459]

Same... just dreaming of getting one

[@igc2304]

Same😂😂 kinda feel like im betraying my aussiedoodle i just got a month ago tho☠️ but i do plan on getting an akita later on in life

[@runstreet]

I rescued my akita and was worried about moving her back to NYC with me from a suburban life but she has adjusted so well and become even better with dogs and people due to so many interactions. She’s kind of a ham and loves all the attention she gets from people admiring her on the street. She sometimes ducks when strangers try to pet her head but she still wags her tail😂 I do not bring her to dog parks but she enjoys meeting dogs on the street for stop and sniffs and is also really mellow with kids. Akitas are great, so chill (besides the prey drive).

[@TheAkitaLife]

The classic Akita head duck.

[@rayl2555]

@@TheAkitaLife I do that and I'm not a dog 😆

[@gillianmcmullan6945]

My female Akita has been going to "Doggy daycare" since she was a baby and a rescue. She loves it and looks after the puppies that are shy. She mixes well except at home. No other animal can come near the house as it is hers . LOL... My last Akita was a big long haired 10 stone alpha male who loved sheep dogs although only female lol. With people all great. But as they guy said you have to socialise the dogs from a young age. I always keep my Akitas on a leash as i live in the countryside in Ireland and Akitas have a high prey drive so on a lead always when out. Just love these dogs so loyal and intelligent but you need to be respectful.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Haga is the same way. Loves his friends at Day School, but doesn't want anyone else coming into the house.

[@gemayeljones248]

My 9 week old male Akita puppy was delivered to my house just this morning. I named him Atrius and BOY IS HE A BIG BEAUTIFUL PUPPY!!!! I cant wait to get off work to go home and play with him!!!

[@eliorton]

I adopted my first Siberian Akita named Bo! He’s a shelter dog who was abused and returned 3 times in 3 years and I’ve had him a little over a year and he’s absolutely transformed and a lot of these videos helped me do that so I just wanted to say thank you so much! He’s the happiest I’ve ever seen him. Socializing him was the most difficult part along with him being glued to my hip 24/7 but I don’t mind that so much 😂

[@eliorton]

first dog I adopted and man it was much more work than I anticipated :) when he says these dogs are stubborn and territorial he wasn’t joking 👍🏼👍🏼

[@TheAkitaLife]

I'm glad Bo found a good home!

[@JazBeYou]

Thank you so much for this videos. I have been looking for channels who focus on Akita’s as I have one myself. She’s currently 9 months and we’re currently working through her aggressive reactivity phase with a professional trainer/ behaviourist. We did miss out on her crucial stage of socialisation and regret it a ton, I hope people really take socialisation seriously! She’s getting better day by day but it’s never been an easy journey :)

[@TheAkitaLife]

Don't give up! The consistency will pay off in the long run. It sounds like you're doing all the right things!

[@galescott8433]

i have a male akita got at eight weeks, socialized him every single day, took him everywhere with me to meet people and other dogs, trained, had him fixed, great dog

[@sunshinesill2720]

Thank you for talking about the importance of benefits of working with a reactive dog. My Akita was rescued from an Amish breeder where temperament wasn't a factor in breeding. I have worked with her a lot, doing the things in your video. While she still has her issues I can only imagine how bad it would be if we weren't working with her constantly. Thanks for the content.

[@shindoo2]

I had an Akita male I got as a rescue. the first week I had him he bit me, my bad. I had him for ten years, I loved that dog more than I can ever put into words, after a year he bonded to me. Before the Akita I had a rescue German Shepard that I had for ten years, the Shepard taught me so many things about having a large dog. The Akita was a whole new learning experience, that said I love Akitas and I would not tell anyone who doesn't know how to handle a large dog to get one as their first dog. Just saying.

[@RichJohnstun]

This is a great video. I got my first Akita as a puppy and was able to socialize him extensively. For the first year of his life he went everywhere with me and it made all the difference. My last one was a rescue and didn't have proper socialization. It didn't stop us and we were able to get him to a point where he was a very good dog, but was still a little challenging when bringing guests into the home. Socialization is not to be overlooked and will make all the difference in your dog's life.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@IceyIcey2023]

Remember now that you’re over 1,000 subbies you can monetize your channel to get your watch hours add in live streams. 🙋🏽‍♀️I just saw your website!! Awesome!

[@chrissyoliveira1537]

Thank you tony… i have 5 currently. Three new pups. The pups just turned 5 months. I slept in their kennel with them until a month ago. Since 7 weeks old. It’s not my first rodeo. I live in the country and we can freely walk off leash. They are so fantastic. I am a proud momma. My older 2 can not be unsupervised. Very high prey drive. All completely different personalities. I am home full time and training is my job

[@TheAkitaLife]

That's a lot of dogs! Sounds like fun 😁

[@alexhaplau-colan5414]

Your lectures are very useful for everybody who thing to get an Akita. Yes, they are fenomenaly protective I remember I had lawn parties, nobody could get close to me, he got in be

[@digibyteforlife]

You've really helped me learn quite a bit, as I'm planning on getting an Akita, and there's a lot more to learn

[@TheAkitaLife]

Awesome thank you!

[@iLLtackticks]

Thank you for making this video. We just took home our first Akita and are working hard to make sure he's well socialized. So far so good, we're always learning. Keep up the great work.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you and congrats!

[@dianapendleton5717]

Akita are FAMILY guard dogs. My Akita protects our whole family. That said, I socialize my Akitas asap. Parks with small children areas, allowing kids to touch my young Akitas.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Yup you gotta start young!

[@gillianmcmullan6945]

Amazing teacher .

[@navarone4031]

amazing video dude, good editing, good audio and on point tips

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you so much for the kind words!

[@julianalderson3938]

Great vid. Thanx

[@daisysonnevijlle5900]

This is so helpfull. We are getting a akita puppy this september. I'm researching as much as I can! I can't wait!

[@TheAkitaLife]

Awesome! New puppies are so exciting

[@ArquiTalks-tv]

Great idea for a video! I can tell you read the comments. Well explained!

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you! I try!

[@scottlouis4076]

Fantastic video. Thanks. Love from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿👍

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you, Scott!

[@leonarddobens6070]

enjoy these videos - rescued an Akita 4 years ago who was all skin and bones, running free - she hasn't missed a meal since and is so beautiful now! great with people but just can't meet dogs

[@TheAkitaLife]

That's awesome! We need more people to rescue these beautiful dogs who have been mistreated

[@b666nilsson7]

Very good video on how to socialize this dog. It is not an easy task, but very important. All rhe best from Sweden ❤

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@kristinakingsland1076]

I have my 3rd Akita who is 2years old now - my other Akita's lived to 11 and 12 years of age and none have bitten people and I have experienced very little dog to dog aggression BUT I am always mindful of the Akita personality and language and I run interference and work to set them up for success with carful socialization! Thank you for your tips, I think you are spot on in your advice and appreciate your work to help people be successful Akita owners! These are great dogs but without constant and careful management could become problem dogs.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you for taking the time to comment!

[@bluemoonrpg326]

If I get an Akita puppy with my 1 year old dog now who is good with other dogs would this help? I have a one year old chow chow. He’s very gentle and friendly. He is very watchful of strangers and some people it takes time for him to feel comfortable to go near them when over and others he’s all over them friendly. Especially kids he loves kids. I just tell them not to grab or touch him from behind. I socialized him a lot when I got him had him around different family took him to different places and everywhere I went if I could he came with me I made sure to take him to pet stores and hardware stores and our outdoor mall and parks to see different places. He was also watched by a friend and a family member when I was unable to leave him home due to my job overnights I didn’t leave him alone. The breeder I got him from are good people and he was raised on a farm with other chows and Irish setters. So he was around those dogs and family they had horses and farm animals as well. I’ve always wanted an Akita that was my first choice but during covid I had a hard time finding one and got lucky to land my dog. I just feel my dog now would really enjoy another pup in the house as he was with a friends dog I dog sat for two weeks. He was really good with other dog. He’s so young just a little over a year I feel if I got an Akita and did the same things I did with my chow it would be a good situation. Would this be a good idea or should I go with a different breed because my chow is a guard dog he sleeps by my front door he refuses to sleep anywhere but between my bedroom and front door. and watches very. He is just different compared to my previous American bulldogs I had who passed away. Chows and Akitas are similar I’ve been told. I still take my dog now for rides and to parks on trails. He has free roam of my fenced in yard with plenty of space. So the Akita would have the same. I was thinking a female would be better than a male

[@mykidsagoalie]

This is an excellent video. Thank you for sharing this valuable information. It's not just relevant for Akitas, but all dogs. I used to have an Akita. She lived to be 18 years of age. She was hilarious and SUPER nosy. She actually helped my youngest son's friend stop being afraid of dogs because she was so friendly that she would nudge him until he finally pet her. She would howl too. People didn't know what to make of that. So, I just told them that's how Ruby says "hello." That worked.

[@TheAkitaLife]

18 is a great age for any dog, but especially an Akita!

[@mykidsagoalie]

Yeah, Ruby was so special and hilarious!

[@nosauce5321]

Great video period.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you so much!

[@gauravmalhotra2272]

Excellent video

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you!

[@sillyyou3915]

I’ve owned a shepherd mix and Husky mix and did great with socialization, i will be having a 3/4 Akita - 1/4 GS mix in a week and this video helped me understand quite more

[@TheAkitaLife]

Awesome! So glad we could help!

[@Nighthawk799]

Totally agree with what you say!

[@wendymispagel7667]

Thank you for this very helpful video. I would like to suggest one more early training must for large dog owners that I wish someone had mentioned when I rescued my beautiful boy. Ramp or stair training to enter and exit vehicles so you can continue to socialize your dog even when he can no longer jump into cars. It is much easier at 1-year old, than at 11-years old.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Very smart! Maybe we'll do a video on this down the road

[@richardlyness]

I'm getting a Japanese Hokkaido ken at end of the year, rhey have similar attributes to an Akita so this video was very helpful. Cheers from N.Ireland

[@TheAkitaLife]

Very cool! Those dogs are extremely rare in the US. Is there a breeder near you or are you importing?

[@richardlyness]

@@TheAkitaLife hi, I'm importing two from Hungary from 2 difft bloodlines. There is none in all of Ireland and only 6 in UK. Looks lovely breed

[@thegayagenda4589]

Thank you for this! I'm planning on getting an Akita (albeit the Japanese kind) one day and it's great to be able to prepare in advance

[@TheAkitaLife]

Awesome! We love JAs too!

[@TinyFoxVT]

your videos are so helpful and informative! Im looking to get an akita sometime this year and your videos help so much keep it up!

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you for the support, it means a lot!

[@michelleelston4518]

Hello , I have been doing most things and it’s been really good, you are so easy to listen too instead of going on and on , your amazing my two 6 month old Akita’s are doing great due to your wonderful tips, they love water and people, but some people are quite shocked with the size when you say they are only puppies, ( Akita’s get a bad press ) they have been in the sea not like your sea , the North Sea but they love it and are surrounded with lovely people and dogs , but they do like cats , so thank you from Yorkshire England ,. 🐕😊🐕

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm glad the videos are helpful ☺️

[@cathyhougaard7928]

Your knowledge of Akitas is amazing. I live in Las Vegas and just recently decided to buy my Akita, my kids are grown now and i have the time to spend with her. She is 6 months now, she came from a Reputable breeder in Missouri so she was around snow and grass but I feel a bit guilty because now she is in the desert. I recently took her up to the Mountain which was cooler but still full of rocks and no grass. Hopefully when the Mountain gets snow she will enjoy going up there. I see in your videos alot of grass, water and snow, but hopefully when our Mountain gets snow she will enjoy it!! ❤

[@TheAkitaLife]

They are adaptable dogs. As long as you keep her cool she should be ok!

[@ThePurpleElephantt]

Hey Kathy, how is your dog doing now? I think the breeder you mentioned in Missouri is the same place where I’m considering mine. Hope you don’t mind sharing your experience 😊

[@stephanied5386]

Your partner cuddling & rocking your akita pup is the most beautiful thing I have seen today 😍 made me smile x

[@TheAkitaLife]

Haha thank you!

[@waldorfstatler8476]

Great Video, the information are very good. We have a female Japan Akita and your absolutly right. Greatings from Germany!

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you!

[@natc4941]

Brilliant video thank you so much for the excellent advice. We are getting an akita mix next. We have a child cat and rabbit so lots of early training required. Thank you

[@TheAkitaLife]

Awesome! Good luck and have fun!

[@natc4941]

@@TheAkitaLife thank you kindly. Much appreciated. We have been watching your videos and reading up. Hope all goes well also. We will stay patient and try our best. So far been good with all pets we have. My child loves animals and this the bigger step having a dog. Much more required but also feel will be excellent family addition. Thank you for all your help from the videos. We will continually be educating ourselves to help produce a great dog. All being well. Fingers crossed. Thank you Kindly. Yas do a fabulous job. Excellent.

[@IceyIcey2023]

Every video is a home run. I’m in Alabama a 1 bite state. Also,homeowners insurance can be hard to find. My Akita you absolutely cannot touch his front paw unless he offers in play. He goes to vet for nail trims. Thanks for showing HOW to massage our pets I never knew to do the ears.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Yep home owners insurance is definitely a tough thing with this breed. Our rate is expensive because of it

[@katiecummings4913]

Love your videos. Thank you 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thanks Katie!

[@menopassini9348]

Great Video. Especially the touching and massaging. I wipe their paws as puppies before they come into the house. Put them in tbe laundry sink and gently spray them with just room temp water, then dry them with a towel and low temp blow dryer. Then put them to sleep for the night. My dogs understand Iam the Boss and that I would never hurt them this makes it a little easier going to the Vet. Because they understand its scary but there is no need to bite or go crazy.

[@TheAkitaLife]

You did a great job!

[@menopassini9348]

@@TheAkitaLifeThank You. .

[@jaytemp4203]

My boy Cain will play fetch for hours and I'm ecstatic as he's just learned how to open every door in the house today 😭😭

[@TheAkitaLife]

So much fun

[@bjmcmahon722]

Awesome & INFORMATIVE video..just got our 10wk old Akita Inu from the breeder this wkend. Little guy seems so social already- but so glad I've landed on this site. #newSub #akita #akitaInu #puppy #socializing

[@TheAkitaLife]

Puppies are fun! It's pretty typical for all puppies to be social, regardless of breed. It's usually around the 10-14 month mark where their personalities change

[@bjmcmahon722]

@TheAkitaLife thanks for doing this channel, we'll be riding with you for years it seems! Great work sir

[@coyoteclockworkstudios3140]

I am bringing home a little girl on Friday! I'm watching everything I can now. Been looking for an akita for about a year.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Awesome! They are so fun when they are puppies

[@monicapaquin9834]

Akita is a very special breed to attain to.

[@Echosong-87]

I always want both american and japanese akitas… i want to learn as much as i can with these breeds…. Thx for the video… hopefully i can get to dog training classes to better further into training these breeds

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@Anna-Wolf]

I love your videos, I’m getting an Akita in a view months and your videos really help allot!❤️ I just had a question, why is the dog park a bad idea?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Dog parks are a bad idea because there's minimal control there. Most people don't do a great job of training their dogs so there is a high likelihood of there being an incident. Also Akitas tend to be same sex aggressive. In general dog parks are a good place to teach your dog bad habits.

[@Anna-Wolf]

@@TheAkitaLife makes sense.. thanks so much for taking the time to answer my question!!

[@c.jbowen2461]

That's been my problem. Not socializing him and now he is 17 months old. Very protective of me, but I live way out in a rural area. Dog Parks are OUT! Nothing good happens there. I should have started long time ago. He is very weary of strangers. Very good points. Yea, it was tough to trim his nails and I worry about him biting someone in a protective manner.

[@TheAkitaLife]

I agree, dog parks aren't great. I'm sure you're doing the best you can and that's all any of us can ever do!

[@rhlsy3209]

I hope to one day take care of an Akita. It might take years before I am confident and ready. Thank you for all of your videos.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Thank you so much for the support!

[@Echelonfrenchiesquad]

I had a great Akita name Kona whom help raise my kids and protected them until she passed at 14yrs. I miss her everyday. My Akita did not really like small dogs but more older bigger dogs. She loved kids and my friends.

[@michelleelston4518]

Big hugs from pixie and Dixie , and Mr jinks ( the cat) from Yorkshire England 😊

[@TheAkitaLife]

Hope to get across the pond some day!

[@HanahBanananana]

I have a 6mo and half Akita Inu and she is the most sweet girl ever, she loves people and is curious about other dogs (likes playing catch more than play bite, she is not a bite-y dog overall). I'm curious if she will continue being so gentle and calm in her teenager phase, but so far she gives me no problems, only soft love 💕

[@TheAkitaLife]

They usually become more "Akita like" after 12 months

[@HanahBanananana]

@@TheAkitaLife Ohh I see, I will continue to enjoy her puppy phase at the fullest then! Thank you ☺

[@prophetleejames]

Ima be honest I stayed on top of mine m she’s phenomenal same mix she tries it every once in a while n obvi the kitchen will never be a place I can keep her out of lol

[@jimlasswell4491]

Our first of three show breeds was Akita. As soon as our puppies could walk, training them not to accept a human body part in their mouth started. I would coax them into 'play' biting then in a circular motion envelop their muzzle, gently holding it closed and saying 'don't bite', over and over again. At 8 weeks none of our puppies would mouth a human. We would play with their feet, stick our hands in their food or water while they were eating or drinking and anything else we could think of to desensitize them, like holding them in my arms while giving them a shower.

[@RM-wy3xn]

so I was wondering if you had any advice. i’ve got a 2 year old American who I’ve always socialised with as many experiences as possible, especially the full body exam. I’ve had a behaviourist round who advised it was social domination and gave us some tips for that, but I wanted your advice. Lately, sometimes in the day mostly at night time, she’s becomes very appeasing when stroking her, and getting to the point of snarling and snapping if I try to examine her mouth.

[@rayl2555]

I'd love to get an Akita because I think it would make me feel safe and compliment my reserved nature as a single female with PTSD. However, socialization would be the biggest milestone for me because as you stated it's best to bring other people's dogs over for playdates. I don't have that option and would be limited to dreaded dog parks and pet stores. I do have extensive experience with animals and think a reserved loyal dog would be a good option as I'm easily overwhelmed with most 'dogs' (jumping up, licking, playing, barking) but I've always loved dogs and it's something I want back in my life. I prefer quiet reserved affection and company nowadays. I'm not a cat person either.

[@TheAkitaLife]

There may be doggie daycare in your area, just make sure they are run by dog trainers.

[@lizaespinoza8623]

Thank you for the video. We have n Akita mix. Akita-poodle. You said yours doesn't want anyone coming in the house. Same as ours. I guess it's instinct. Trying to get her used to having people around but she won't have any of it. Any tips on how to curb the guarding instinct?

[@TheAkitaLife]

That's a very interesting mix! Is it a male or female? Intact or neutered/spayed? One thing I've found helps is taking the pup for a walk with the person who will be coming into the house. Obviously you don't always have the opportunity to do that, but I've found it helps.

[@jamesdunn1935]

Beautiful and healthy looking dog.

[@AOTAOE]

I’d have a 3 year old golden retriever and I have been wanting an Akita for a while. Since we have an opportunity to get an 8 week old Akita puppy, will he be ok/friendly to our golden retriever since the Akita will be growing up with our golden?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Akitas are same sex aggressive, so if they are both males or both females, there's almost no chance they'll get along. If they are opposite sex, they may or may not get a long. Akitas usually have a very sharp change in behavior when they reach maturity. The key will be socialization and making sure you have the space to let the dogs be independent if necessary.

[@tigg.z]

Socialization before 12 weeks is crucial I'd argue; due to unforeseen circumstances I was unable to get my pup until 12 weeks. Missing up to an additional 4 weeks of transitioning from a much more rural setting to a city setting was one of the hardest and longest training hurdles I've had to face with him. Luckily he is very human and dog social, however there are other experiences that are too much for him and he needs to be eased into them; inanimate objects tend to scare him more than anything. Even with being touched everywhere from a young age, he is still very whiny and complains when paws, mouth, etc. are touched. He never goes past vocal complaints, however this was not achieved magically. Cannot stress how important this is as Akitas can and will bite without warning...

[@TheAkitaLife]

Yep. You have to be an expert in body language with them

[@scotte.4624]

I'm loyal to the Akita breed, never not had an Akita. Lol. I start socializing at 8 weeks. Done that with every Akita puppy I've ever owned. I got 5 of them now and they're a hit at our local off-leash park.

[@johnwaynelitan1131]

How about if it’s a mixed breed? I have an American Akita, cross Native bulldog. And she’s still 9 weeks old. I’ve done some research 🧐 but she’s still a mixed Akita so I’m going to follow this video. Thanks 🙏

[@TheAkitaLife]

In my experience mixed breeds usually have softer traits and temperament. But you'll just have to wait and see. That's definitely an interesting mix!

[@geetanshmittal9702]

Hi I am planning to buy a japanese akita from a breeder. But he is 100 days old. I need a guard dog. Is he too told for me to consider?

[@stefangamer4186]

I thought of getting myself a Akita pup like 3-4 months old, i already have a shiba he will be 1 year in 2 months and he is very playfull, the question is if i get the akita can/will they get along?

[@TheAkitaLife]

First they must be opposite sex. Also, how does your Shiba get along with other dogs now?

[@foleskinfoley8617]

Was looking at a 5 month old Akita male. We went to see him. He’s very nervous pup, was scared of us. I’m hesitant to take him as ppl are saying it’s a red flag. I’ve had 3 Akitas previous with same breeder with know issues. Have you any advise?

[@bretjessicayanish1432]

I have been working hard with socializing and he gets along well with people and other dogs I have 3 other dogs and a visiting dog every weekend and he is so good at 4 months old and his nipping has stopped he is a Akita German shepherd mix

[@TheAkitaLife]

Keep an eye out when he hits the 1 year mark. A lot can change, but you're doing the right things!

[@user-jm4ll6ee9x]

Hi. I just got an big japanese Akita & have had the other dog but it always attack my other dog. Do you have any ideas about it? Because I always want to keep it. Thanks.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Hard to say, without being there and seeing their behavior. I would try to find a local trainer to work with and get their opinion

[@user-jm4ll6ee9x]

@@TheAkitaLife thanks for it👍. Sometimes it bites. Just like it has to fights for itself. Now it's my headache.

[@ejclark1120]

I’m gettin an Akita Belgian malinois mix any tips for that 😅

[@TheAkitaLife]

Good luck! Haha. That's a wild mix. Start training ASAP

[@andybooth1655]

@@TheAkitaLife I rehomed an Akita/Malinois cross 7 months ago when she was 18 months old. I'm the 3rd home she's had since she left the breeder i.e. 2 previous owners couldn't cope with her. She's high energy, high prey drive, very protective in the home and she's also dog reactive. I'd love to say i did my research before taking her on but that would be BS, i fell in love as soon as i saw her and that was it. That said i have no regrets about taking her on, she's an awesome dog and has changed so very much in the 7 months i've had her. She's much calmer, much more open to meeting people, once she's decided she likes somebody then she's a friend for life. She's not walking off lead yet, her recall is fine as long as there are no distractions but not so much if there are other dogs around. Like the man said, start training and socialisation immediately if not sooner! Good luck!

[@LindyKnight]

Greetings from Australia. just came across your channel tonight. We have three dogs. The oldest is a cross of a Malamute and a American Akita. Bella whos now 13. The middle dog is a male Akita. Karma is 12 1/2. The youngest is a 12 year old female Akita. Fate. They have all gotten on good. Except for Fate for the first few years.. she flew Bella.. I finally put it together a time frame. She Fate would do it a week or two before coming on heat. After she was spaded she was fine. Well with Bella .. However a friends akita attacked her a number of times.. Her akita was aggressive with other dogs..except my boy karma. She respected him. I put her behavior down to my friend whom has a soft personality and was not socialized . myself and my son are both ADHD. and I had friends with children with disabilities. So with all my dogs as pups upward.. I would do as you did..play with there mouths. Saying the word teeth. tug on there tails. In play I had rough play and soft play. the reason for rough play was to teach them they could play that way..however when I wanted them to calm. I would raise my hands up.. facing my palms at them..like stick them up. when ppl are scared of dogs they do that movement. Which my dogs know to sit and be calm. Around children or people at shops that wanted to pat any of them.. I would say wait..and get karma to drop.. so they where above him. Making them the alphas.. If you get that. They are such a great breed..so smart and very funny. I love watching them play..they play very differnt from other dogs.. Loved your videos.. Take care.. love your furbaby too..beautiful colour. Cheers.

[@TheAkitaLife]

You definitely have to be very firm in your leadership. Thanks for commenting!

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

I wish I had seen a video explaining this stuff (especially the “exercise your dog before socializing”) when my Shiba babies were still alive. The male was a goofy lover of everybody and every dog, but the female was “difficult.” Had I exercised her before trips to the dog park than maybe she would have gotten along with other dogs better…. He died at nine of bloat, she lived to be seventeen, miss them both and had them cremated (they are in the china cabinet) my niece and nephew have strict orders that all my cremated fur babies go into my coffin with me before I go into the mausoleum (if I have fur babies still alive when I go than the fur baby goes with one of them until it passes then it gets cremated and put into my coffin with me).

[@TheAkitaLife]

So sorry to hear. Bloat is awful.

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

@@TheAkitaLife thank you. Yes, it is.

[@banmej9319]

i just got an american akita puppy she’s a female and 6 months and i’m trying to get her used to my other dog and introduce them both and treat each other as family but what would be any tips for that?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Make sure they have plenty of space away from each other and keep the interactions short to start. Go on lots of walks together so they all feel part of thr same pack. Make sure to feed your older dog first at feeding time and make the puppy wait. Hand feed the puppy and make her work for her food.

[@jameshinchey2535]

I have a 12 week old American Akita pup, he's very bonded to me but super Leary of strangers... I want to socialize as much as possible but unfortunately I don't have many close friends that come over regularly... Also I don't really know anyone with dogs of their own. I have a dog park close to me but my boy isn't fully vaccinated yet. They said he'll be 16 weeks by the time he's fully vaccinated... Should I take him to the dog park once he's all done with shots since I don't really have dogs or people that I can invite over to hangout with him?

[@TheAkitaLife]

I don't recommend dog parks in general. Do you have any acquaintances with dogs that you could meet up with? That's the best way to do it with just 1-2 other dogs in general. Especially if you know the other dogs are fully vaccinated. You can also bring him to businesses where they allow dogs so he can be around other people, sights, sounds and smells. Places like Home Depot.

[@slm8025]

After years of Rottweilers, I landed into the life of a 14week old 50-50 Akita-Pit that was all play as a PIT but when he got serious, he was a real danger, at 14 weeks! So yes, SOCIALIZATION is a must for ALL dogs but looking like an Akita in all ways but with a Pit face and the size of a 70 pound Pit is not going to work if you do not. THIS is a great video. Clay is unbelievable gracious to humans and if he feels he is not losing, he's good with the other dogs but I live in the country so the dogs he sees too many times are feral and he is 100% protector, so I just keep it to the humans. Other dogs at the stores,........, he can take or leave them if the Humans are paying attention to him so all's good. Worked around show dogs for years and YES- get them use to being touch "anywhere" especially Males- I had a vet that would not see my Rotties and yet he finally looked at my male the first time and he never had a Rottie that was not aggressive in an exam let alone 5 every year. He made a real change of heart on Rotties. Plus- your dog may be a love bug, but it never fails that a "DOG PERSON" will think all dogs love them and bring out the worse in your "love bug" and pat their head etc and the dog takes offense to a stranger pounding their head.

[@TheAkitaLife]

That much be a challenging but fun mix!

[@vactor2953]

do U keep his collar on full time?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Nope! It's only on in the house if we are not home, or if we are working on some training.

[@Laura-ci1uj]

I will get my Akita puppy in a few weeks. She will be 20 weeks old once I get her. I'm so scared it will be too late to socialize her as you said it should be done until 16 weeks. How high are the chances that it will be very hard to socialize her after 20 weeks?

[@TheAkitaLife]

It will be difficult, but not doing any socializing will be even worse.

[@Roni.Animations]

I have a question, so my Akita pupper does this weird thing where you get him mad then he gets his teeth real close to you, then just when you think he’s gonna bite he licks you, why is that? But I have a problem, he jumps on the table to eat food from our PLATE! How do I train him

[@TheAkitaLife]

He licks you because he loves you. As far as jumping on the table, you just have to divert him immediately and use whatever command you'd like for "no". We train our dogs on "uh uh uh". When they hear that they know they're supposed to stop what they're doing. With puppies it will take hundreds of repetitions.

[@melanieingram8237]

Hello I hope you can help me My akita puppy is blind she possibly barely sees shadows bright light at 8 weeks please help how /can I still train socialise her I don't want to rehome her Her mum is american akita and her dad is a japenese .

[@TheAkitaLife]

Socialization will be the same process even if she's blind. Just have to be extra careful when playing with other dogs so she doesn't get hurt.

[@ruthanaa2741]

I want asking if we need adopt german sheper puppy and akita puppy in same time Can they get well together?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Two puppies is a lot of work, and those are two difficult breeds. I wouldn't recommend it.

[@ruthanaa2741]

@@TheAkitaLife thanks for your answer

[@erikmartinez8325]

So I have an Akita Staffy mix, I’ve had her since she was a puppy. Met at a wel old and took her home two months later, was just wondering if anyone could tell me how those two Breeds compliment each other 😄

[@TheAkitaLife]

Hard to say, but that's definitely an interesting mix!

[@erikmartinez8325]

@@TheAkitaLife thank you so much! she's beautiful and well behaved, everyone always comments on how gentle she is, but when she plays with other dogs she can be very rough which scared a lot of other owners. You're videos have helped a lot with dealing with her akita side though so thank you!

[@TheAkitaLife]

@@erikmartinez8325 Thank you for supporting the channel!

[@csees4334]

We are looking to get a brother for @gemmaraesees. She is a two year old LC . She is very laid back and gentle. How would you recommend introducing a new addition??

[@TheAkitaLife]

You definitely want to start slowly. Try introducing them for the first time in a very neutral place (off of your property) and only do it in small doses to start. Make sure you have space sectioned off for each dog to have their own area/quiet time. Make sure to take care of your older dog first...feed them first, greet them first, etc, so they don't feel threatened or the need to resource guard. It should be a lot of fun! We're looking at adding a LC female soon, and many people say they are more mild tempered than standard coat Akitas.

[@brucecristina2947]

What breeder did you go to? I live in illinois and am looking for a trustworthy breeder

[@TheAkitaLife]

We got our most recent puppy from Paradise Akitas in Idaho, however the litter was sired by Okami Akitas' "Consider it Done" aka Buster, in Illinois. I would highly recommend either breeder, and have personally seen Okami's kennel, they take great care and pride in their breedings. www.okamiakita.com/

[@brucecristina2947]

@@TheAkitaLife thank you very much for the quick reply! I will check them out!!

[@lindasmith9946]

My mom and her husband has one and got him around 2.5 years. He wasn’t doing well with his older brother anymore. However, he’s not the nicest dog. He is very standoffish when I come over. He also snapped at my little Morkiepoo and scared me because he was trying to take her but we grabbed her in time. He wasn’t having it. So now we have to keep little Chloe in her cage when we visit. I have to admit, he makes me nervous.

[@TheAkitaLife]

I'm not surprised. Akitas are very protective of the household.

[@kelviecarlile1058]

Got a 3 month old 4weeks ago and boy is he stubborn. He literally doubled in size in less than three weeks. What am I in for?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Start training daily!

[@nikki8630]

my akitas name is zeus he hasn't been eating much lately I was wondering if you knew what that problem is

[@TheAkitaLife]

Akitas can be picky eaters, however any sudden change in behavior calls for a trip to the vet. How old is Zeus?

[@nikki8630]

@@TheAkitaLife 4

[@chevllialeonard8347]

Hey so my Akita had attacked me and I’m pretty lost right now of what to do I definitely do not want to put him down but I also want to be able to feel comfortable with my dog however, I do not have the money to afford $3000 in training Do you know of anywhere where they helped rescue Akita’s

[@chevllialeonard8347]

By attacked I mean, he bit me 17 times

[@TheAkitaLife]

Where are you located?

[@alyssaa6871]

I have a big problem I need some guidance on. I have 3 akitas total. I have 2 females and 1 male. A year ago, our 2 females had gotten into a very serious dog fight. At the time, my Mila (4 years old) and Naya (1 year old). The fight occurred the minute baby Naya had gone into heat. Needless to say, the fight was so bad we have kept them seperate for a year now. Mile is very much alpha and she knows it l, where as the puppy Naya is a very fearful dog. Mila now 5, Naya now 2, is it possible to ever have them be reintroduced? We have done an amazing job keeping them separated, and I don't have it in my heart to rehome either one of them.

[@TheAkitaLife]

That's a tough situation 😪 I don't like to say "never" but honestly I don't think the odds are good. If you can budget it I would probably try to work with a trainer to do it. It's also typical for dogs to "soften" as they age, but you could still be a few years off from that happening.

[@calebheddy1447]

Im hoping you figured this out but they can be introduced again if you will present yourself as the alpha. Dont tolerate the fighting and in the future I wouldnt seprate them they will estapblish their own rank and learnt o get along in the pack but you need to be their leader.

[@Cre8iveCindy]

PLEASE HELP- HOW do I introduce friends/new people that come into the house? He barks so loudly and it's scary. He didn't start that way. He is pure bred but was abandoned.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Introduce them outside of the home on neutral ground. Go for a walk together so they feel like the new person is part of the pack.

[@josejuan275]

My akita is 8 months and he has no problem with socialization. He love kids, and other dog in the village.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Most Akita puppies are like that at that age. Once they mature (typically around 12 months) you can expect a fairly big change in their personality.

[@a.c.6475]

Hmm!....there's one more important subject to discuss here, food aggression! Have you had any issues with your Akita pertaining to this?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Check out our video about this kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXKe4SFd8ZliZo

[@jeffreychin7189]

My akita was also food aggressive as pup. I literally hand fed him for 3 or 4 months so he knew not to bite the hand that feeds him. At 2.5 years he is much less protective of his bowl. Hope this helps.

[@travislang4377]

i have two...a male and female...both of them have been put into doggie daycare.... both were 3 months old when we got them... this breed is great with people and horrible with any same sex dog. my male has a zero tolerance for any other large breed male dog. My female is similar. however they are both good with little dogs that they know.

[@TheAkitaLife]

Yep our guy is the same way!

[@jolandascholte7885]

I 💘 american akita

[@jolandascholte7885]

Thanks 👍

[@EmmainthePNW]

How are Akita's with cats?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Terrible. Do not mix.

[@avneetkainth9816]

I want two of them as guard dogs. I don't really want them to socialise with any outsider or any other dog. My garden is big enough for them to play in. What I've found in the past is if you take them out and they socialise with other dogs people ect they turn docile which isn't good if you want them as good guard dogs.

[@TheAkitaLife]

It's not quite that simple

[@cityofgaming25]

What if you’re buying a Japanese Akita for home protection?

[@TheAkitaLife]

I wouldn't buy any dog for home protection

[@Darlynnr0607]

Hi Toni- can you make a video on Akita male vs female please?

[@TheAkitaLife]

I don't have much experience with female Akitas, but will probably will be getting one in the next 12 months, so I don't plan on making any Content specific to females until then.

[@alewalei_219]

I never socialized my akitas only because I need guard dogs,, especially in LA. Two big akltas all you need to keep your family safe.

[@Brsrafal]

i got mine on craiglist my first dog no experience 1 bedroom apartment wife kid ppl always come and go. He is social i dont even need a leash going out .

[@TheAkitaLife]

Probably not full Akita

[@bbodan5393]

Time in, reward out. Getting a Akita from a pound, they'll have trust issues they act out of character. Give it's space but recognize it presence.. Take the affection you can get, let them break it off and, hopefully they'll do it when you are asking for it.

[@ASMRekt]

I’ve got an Akita shepherd mix, dude walks out the house with his nose to the ground. And if anybody’s come by his cackles are up and he’s following the trail. It’s amazing what’s biologically in there. They’re lawful, you have to keep making sure they listen to you because they’re super stubborn. Definitely not a first dog. You’ve got to read the body language and nip resource guarding and bullying right before it even starts consistently. If you needed a herd guardian dog, you probably could just put him with the herd and they’d know what to do. It hard in modern society to just let that be

[@TheAkitaLife]

They love to work

[@tonimayfield5554]

I have two Akita’s. They love people. Love people to come to the house. Both get along with my three house cats . One Ostia likes the farm animals. She will help round up the goats . Goes nose to nose with the cows doesn’t attempt to hurt the chickens or ducks . Now Nikita is different. She does not make a good farm dog . Great with the indoor cats but wants to go after strays . She would kill one . Keep her away from the cows , pigs, chickens and goats . She went for a goat that got out of the goat pin and was eating my roses . I pulled her off and the goat went back to his pen . Love my girls. I have owned 6 in my lifetime. Best breed there is

[@TheAkitaLife]

Very lucky they like cats! Most Akitas would treat them like a snack 🤪

[@kyrameiii]

My akita had a traumatic childhood before we got her she had hot oil thrown on her, but I socialised her from 8 weeks with all dogs of all size but she recently attacked her best friend but I stopped her before she bite him. She's now dog aggressive even with socialisation, I'm afraid too socialise her now😭

[@kyrameiii]

She shows signs of anxiety when in public she tries to run and pants when we are around traffic or cars, I believe she has anxiety meeting dogs after a bad experience with a rottweiler also dog owners fear the akita and keep their dogs away but she was still socialised with dogs,cat,strangers and children

[@TheAkitaLife]

Might be time to call a trainer for some help

[@cutienic69]

When a akita pulls towards another dog, but they are not growling, and just whimpering, is that I want to sniff you, or I want to attack you?

[@TheAkitaLife]

Very hard to say without seeing other body language cues and without knowing the dog in general.