Quick Stats for the Keeshond Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 17 – 19 inches (44 – 48 cm)
• Weight: 55 – 65 pounds (25 – 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1930
• Shedding: heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); best with average sized yard (minimum); prefer cool climates; do not like extreme heat

Personality of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The Keeshond is one of the most affectionate and friendliest members of the Non-Sporting Group. This dog has the physical appearance of a fluffy, square-shaped Northern-type breed. The coat is harsh and long, perfect for withstanding cool temperatures.

The temperament of the Keeshond can be summed up in one word: loving. These dogs are as tender and affectionate as can be, not only towards its family members but also with other dogs and pets in the house. However, do not let this soft-hearted temperament fool you – the Keeshond also makes a great watchdog and will bark incessantly at incoming intruders.

History of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The Keeshond has its roots from the Netherlands, dating back to the 1700s. However, the exact history of the breed is not documented. We do know that it was widely popular in Holland since the 18th century, owned by families as companions and devoted watchdogs.

Several years before the French Revolution the breed got twisted into the affairs discussed around the political events of the time. This was due largely in part from a man named Kees de Gyselaer, who was the leader of the Patriot faction. He owned a large number of these dogs and used them in so many political cartoons that the dogs became known as Patriot symbols.

Unfortunately, since this party did not win, many owners of Keeshond dogs got rid of their pets, not wanting to have anything affiliating them with the losing party. However, the breed did survive in enough numbers to continue. By 1925 the Keeshond made its way to England.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1930 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group .

The Keeshond Dog Breed Care and Grooming

This is a moderately active breed that can get its exercise requirements from a few brisk walks on the leash and some playtime, both in or outside the home. They are compact enough in size to make ideal house dogs, but always appreciate a romp outside. The Keeshond is an overly-social dog that enjoys interacting with other dogs and people.

With its harsh coat, the ideal climate for the breed is in cool locations. They do not tolerate heat well and can live outdoors if need be. However, Keeshond dogs are meant to be companions and should sleep inside at night with the family. Grooming requirements call for a good brushing two to three times weekly.

Health Problems of the Keeshond Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Keeshond Dog Breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• epilepsy
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation
• skin problems

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• renal cortical hypoplasia
• mitral valve insufficiency
• tetralogy of Fallot

Veterinarians recommend having the Keeshond Dog Breed tested specifically for knee, hip, and cardiac problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

• Height (at the shoulders): 16 – 20 inches (41 – 51 cm)
• Weight: 55 – 85 pounds (25 – 39 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1884
• Shedding: heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); very inactive indoors; small yard okay

Personality of the Clumber Spaniel Dog

These Spaniels are somewhat lazy and tend to be really quiet. In fact, many owners say that they often have to coax their dog into moving. This makes them popular among people living in the city. They are suitable for apartments as long as you give them enough exercise.

Surprisingly, while the Clumber Spaniel is a member of the sporting group, they are actually very calm and laid back dogs. Most other sporting dogs are highly energetic and boisterous. These Spaniels are considered the most easy going of the sporting dogs, but don’t let that fool you. They are always ready for a good hunt and a long day in the field.

These dogs can get along with other dogs, cats, and other household pets as long as they are socialized with them properly.

History of the Clumber Spaniel Dog

The history of this breed goes back to the late 1700s. They are considered one of the oldest and stockiest of all the Spaniels.

The actual origin of the breed is unknown, but many Spaniel enthusiasts believe that they are descended from a mixture of the Alpine Spaniel and the Basset Hound. It is also believed that the St. Bernard dog may have contributed to the mix as well.

The breed got its name sometime around the French Revolution period. It is believed that the name “Clumber” came about because the Duc de Noailles of France transported his Spaniel kennels to Clumber Park, which was where the estate of the Duke of Newcastle was located.

Clumber Spaniels became quite popular among the English nobility. They like the dog’s slow disposition, keen hunting ability, and superb retrieving skills. During that time, only the nobility has access to these dogs, and they tried to keep it that way.

Sometime during the late 1800s, the breed was introduced to the United States of America where its popularity climbed quickly.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1884 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Clumber Spaniel Dog Care and Grooming

Like other sporting dogs, the Clumber Spaniel requires some form of exercise. These requirements can be met by providing the dog with a long walk or a relaxing hike if possible.

Grooming these dogs require some heavy brushing several times weekly with a good quality dog brush and a good comb, such as one of the Chris Christensen products. Pay special attention to the coat as it can develop dirty areas that will need to be cleaned. Give them a bath as often as necessary to keep the coat clean. Consider using the Chris Christensen Shampoo.

Clumber Spaniels do have a tendency to drool.

These dogs are heavy shedders.

Health Problems of the Clumber Spaniel Dog

The average life expectancy of the Clumber Spaniel dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• intervertebral disk disease

Minor health issues include:

• otitis externa
• entropion
• ectropion

Veterinarians recommend having the Clumber Spaniel dog tested specifically for hip, elbow, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of thebonecollector via Flickr

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 18 – 22 inches (46 – 56 cm)
• Weight: 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: about 15 years
• AKC Group: Non-Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1903
• Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; okay with a small yard

Personality of the Chow Chow Dog Breed

The Chow Chow is believed to be one of the top rated watchdogs. They are very protective and cautious when it comes to defending and guarding their families. Because of this strong protective instinct they are very wary of strangers and other animals. They are quite good with children however.

They are not really playful dogs and can be a bit of a challenge to train.

Because of their short muzzles, these dogs will often snore.

History of the Chow Chow Dog Breed

The exact origin of the Chow Chow is not quite known. What is known is that this dog breed has been extremely popular in China for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. There are pictures depicted on ancient Chinese pottery of dogs closely resembling the Chow Chow.

The original purpose of the Chow Chow is thought to have been as a hunting dog. They were used to sniff out and find birds. Over time, the quality of the breed started to decline and their numbers steadily declined. However, a few of these dogs were kept inside monasteries, and with a few wealthy families.

The breed may be related to the Chinese Shar Pei, since both breeds can be traced back to China, and both have the distinctive black and blue mouth.

The name “Chow Chow” is believed to have originated from an old English slang term for all the odds and ends that were brought to England from the Far East during the 1800s.

During the late 1800s, the first Chow Chows made their way to the United States from England. Queen Victoria took a great interest in this breed, which helped their popularity to grow.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1903 as a member of the Non-Sporting Group.

The Chow Chow dog breed Care and Grooming

Chow Chows are not very tolerable of hot and humid weather. They would rather enjoy a nice cold day. Keep that in mind when you take them outdoors for exercise and other activities.

As far as exercise goes, a daily brisk walk should be sufficient.

Grooming their smooth, thick coat requires at least a weekly brushing with a good dog brush, perhaps a Chris Christensen pin brush.

These dogs are seasonal heavy shedders. Take extra care when they are shedding their thick undercoat. During shedding season, you may want to brush their coats every other day.

Health Problems of the Chow Chow dog breed

The average life expectancy of the Chow Chow dog breed is about fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• entropion
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• patellar luxation

Minor health issues include:

• stenotic nares
• elbow dysplasia
• distichiasis
• gastric torsion
• cataracts
• glaucoma

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): 19 – 24 inches (48 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 35 – 55 pounds (16 – 25 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1997
• Shedding: heavy shedder; seasonal shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Canaan Dog Breed

The Canaan Dog is athletic, graceful, quick, and agile. They are loving and playful with family members, which make them great family dogs. However, they can be aloof and reserved around strangers which make them excellent watchdogs.

These dogs are natural guardians, so they tend to bark more than other herding dogs.

They are very intelligent and usually do really well at obedience. They are also good at agility, tracking, and herding.

History of the Canaan Dog Breed

The origin of the Canaan Dog goes really far back to ancient Israel. The breed developed through many centuries of hardship.

Researchers believe that the breed originated in the biblical land of Canaan. During early times, these dogs were known as the Kelev Kanani, which means the Dog of Canaan.

After the Romans came through Israel some 2000 years ago, these dogs were left to fend for themselves. They survived in the Negev Desert and the Sebulon Coastal Plain. The male puppies were taken in by the Bedouins and used for guarding livestock. Over time the dogs honed their herding skills, becoming excellent herders and protectors.

Dr. Rudolphina Menzel is considered the founder of the breed, and their existence today is largely because of her efforts. Dr. Menzel found feral Canaan Dogs, captured them and started a breeding program. These dogs quickly became great sentry dogs, loyal messengers, and were routinely used for mine detection during World War II.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1997 as a member of the Herding Group.

The Canaan Dog Breed Care and Grooming

In general, herding dogs require lots of exercise daily and the Canaan dog falls right into this category. These dogs have moderately high levels of energy so take them on at least a brisk walk every day. You can also provide mental and physical stimulation by playing active games with them. If possible, provide them with herding activities, they just love that.

Grooming requirements for their short coat includes a light weekly brushing to remove dead hairs from the coat. You may want to invest in a high quality brush from Chris Christensen products.

These dogs are very clean without the typical doggie odor.

The breed is a seasonal heavy shedder.

Health Problems of the Canaan Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Canaan Dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

The Canaan Dog is an amazingly healthy breed. There are no major or minor health concerns that seem to affect them.

Veterinarians recommend having the Canaan Dog breed tested specifically for hip problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: at least 28 inches (71 cm) ; bitches: at least 26 inches (66 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 75 – 105 pounds (34 – 48 kg)  ; bitches: 60 – 90 pounds (27 – 41 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Hound Group – AKC recognized in 1891
• Shedding: heavy shedder; seasonal shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); relatively inactive indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Borzoi Dog

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a striking member of the AKC Hound Group. They are one of the most well-mannered dogs you will find and make excellent family pets. They are affectionate towards their owners and great with children.

Most Borzoi dogs tend to be reserved and shy around strangers.

History of the Borzoi Dog

The Borzoi originated in Russia and be traced as far back as the Middle Ages. For several hundred years they were bred by Russian aristocrats.

In the early 13th Century they were used to course hare. Eventually, they were crossed with coursing hounds, Russian sheepdogs, and bear hounds to increase the breed’s overall size, and to improve the dog’s coat. The resulting mix was a dog that could hunt wolf even in very cold weather.

They would often hunt in packs of three – one female and two males. When a wolf was spotted, the dogs were unleashed. They would then hunt and take down the wolf with great agility and precision, and hold the wolf there until the hunter arrived on the scene.

By the 1800s, there were seven different types of Borzoi dogs in Russia. The Borzoi of today came from the Perchino variety. Unfortunately, during the Russian Revolution, many of the Borzoi were killed. The breed was able to survive through the efforts of foreign royalty who owned several Borzoi kennels.

Today, the breed is quite popular in the show ring. They are also used as coursing dogs.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1891.

The Borzoi Dog Care and Grooming

Borzoi dogs do not like really hot weather, but can do well in moderately cool temperatures.

They need plenty of physical exercise. Take them on a long daily walk, but you should also try to provide them with sufficient opportunity to run off leash as well. They like to run so they make excellent jogging partners. They usually enjoy running alongside you on a bicycle ride as well. However, you should know that the Borzoi is likely to chase after prey if given the chance.

They have very long, silky coats that are pretty easy to groom. You should brush their coats regularly with a good firm bristle brush.

They are heavy shedders, but only shed seasonally.

Health Problems of the Borzoi Dog

The average life expectancy of the Borzoi dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• gastric torsion

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism
• cardiomyopathy
• prone to bloat

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

Veterinarians recommend having the Borzoi dog tested specifically for cardiac and thyroid problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 65 – 75 pounds (25 – 29 kg)  ; bitches: 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1912
• Shedding: heavy shedder (seasonal)
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog is playful but protective. It is a natural guard dog that was bred to protect animals and to be a herding dog for stock. They appear confident and proud, and are always alert to their surroundings. They have a natural drive to herd and run, non-stop, for hours.

These dogs are tough and have an independent personality. Yet, they are loving towards their family. Towards strangers, they can be intense and weary. They are moderately friendly towards others dogs and pets. If they are socialized early on they can also be great with children.

The Belgian Sheepdog is also an intelligent dog breed. This makes them easy to train, and a courageous and fearless protector.

History of the Belgian Sheepdog

The Belgian Sheepdog is a member of the Herding Group that originated in Belgium and have been around as far back as the 1800s. They were used mainly for herding stock.

This breed shares its history with the Belgian Malinois and the Belgian Tervuren. It is believed that all three dog shared a common ancestral breed in the Belgian Shepherd.

The Belgian Sheepdog came from a specific variation known as the Groenendael variation. These were working dogs that were used to herd and guard. This variation stood out from the others because of its long, black coat. They were also great police dogs and service dogs.

By the early 1900s, the Groenendael became a popular breed among Americans, who employed them mainly as police dogs. During World War I they were used as sentry dogs, draft dogs, and messengers. Eventually, the Groenendael became known as the Belgian Sheepdog, although it still keeps it original name in other parts of the world.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1912.

The Belgian Sheepdog Dog Care and Grooming

The Belgian Sheepdog needs to be able to expend its high levels of energy. Daily exercise through jogging, running, and playing should be an important part of their routine. If you can, provide them with the opportunity to play demanding games that will stimulate them both mentally and physically. Advanced obedience training and agility would be great for these dogs.

The Belgian Shepherd has a long, straight, medium length, heavy outer coat. They also have a dense undercoat. Grooming them should include a daily combing and brushing. Pay special attention to them when they are shedding.

This breed is a seasonal, heavy shedder. They usually shed heavily twice per year. However, some shedding can also be expected throughout the rest of the year.

Health Problems of the Belgian Sheepdog

The average life expectancy of the Belgian Sheepdog is about ten to twelve years.

There are no major concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• allergies
• seizures
• hypothyroidism
• skin disorders

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)
• hemangiosarcoma
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• elbow dysplasia
• pannus

Veterinarians recommend having the Belgian Sheepdog tested specifically for thyroid, hip, elbow, and eye problems.

Image courtesy of Wikipedia

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs 28 – 30 inches (71 – 76 cm) bitches 26 – 28 inches (66 – 71 cm)
• Weight: dogs 100 – 150 pounds (45 68 kg) bitches 90 – 130 pounds (41 – 59 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: working group – recognized 1996
• Shedding: seasonal heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; relatively inactive indoors; best with a large yard

Personality of Anatolian Shepherds

The Anatolian Shepherd is very loyal and devoted to their family. At the same time, they are very easy going, affectionate, and would make an ideal family pet. They enjoy children but should be supervised because of their large size. They may unintentionally hurt a child.

They make great watchdogs, and are very wary and suspicious of strangers and other unfamiliar animals.

Although often associated with a flock, they are guardians of the flock and are not to be confused with herding dogs. These dogs are capable of great speed and endurance,

History of Anatolian Shepherd Dogs

The breed has a long history as a working dog. They were originally bred to be the guardians of a flock. Today, they are still used as a security dog.

Some research trace their origin as far back as 4000 years to the Roman Mollosian dogs of war, and to the Tibetan Mastiff. They were used to protect livestock from dangerous predators like bears and wolves.

Anatolian Shepherd dogs were introduced to the United States sometime during the mid 1950s. At first, they were used primarily for guarding livestock against coyotes, wolves, and other predators. But in the late 1970s and the early 1980s, the breed became more popular.

Once that happened, dog enthusiasts began breeding and raising Anatolian Shepherds. They were regarded for they devotion and considered excellent family protectors.

In 1996 the AKC recombined this wonderful dog breed.

Anatolian Shepherd Care and Grooming

This dog breed can live outside if necessary, as long as there are no extreme temperatures (either hot or cold). Of course, they also love to be a part of the family and would love to sleep indoors at night.

An Anatolian Shepherd requires plenty of exercise. Given the opportunity, they will run or jog with their owners. However, a brisk walk on leash will do the job. If possible, they would do best being able to run free in their own fenced yard. Because they are working dogs, they would do great if they have a job to do.

In general, they require little grooming. But a weekly brushing with the proper dog grooming brush to remove any dead hair would be great.

The breed is known to be a seasonal heavy shedder – they shed twice per year. During this time their coat should be thoroughly brushed.

Health Problems of Anatolian Shepherd Dogs

The average life expectancy of an Anatolian Shepherd is twelve to fifteen years.

The breed is quite healthy with the only major health issue being CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Although CHD is not as common as in some of the other large dog breeds. Of minor concern is eyelid entropion and hypothyroidism.

Anatolian Shepherds have also been known to be sensitive to anesthesia.

Veterinarians recommend that these dogs be tested for potential hip and eye problems.

Image Courtesy of Wikipedia

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: dogs 80 – 95 lbs (36 – 43 kg) ; bitches 70 – 85 pounds (32 – 38 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – recognized in 1935
• Shedding: heavy shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; fairly active indoor; large yard recommended

Personality of The Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are large dogs that are powerful, strong-willed, independent, obedient, and loving. They are family dogs who love being around people. However, they may be aggressive towards other animals, especially strange dogs. Because of their strong prey instinct, they should be supervised around small animals.

They are very affectionate dogs and thrive on lots of human interaction. Although they are quite capable of sleeping outside even on cold nights, they prefer to sleep indoors with the other members of their family.

They are great with older children. Because of their extreme friendliness towards people, they would not make a suitable watchdog.

The Malamute is relatively quiet, but they do like to howl occasionally.

These dogs can be difficult to train in formal obedience, however, they are usually well-mannered since they love to please their owners so much. Proper socialization and obedience training is recommended to keep them well behaved.

History of Alaskan Malamute Dogs

The Alaskan Malamute originated in Alaska (who would have thought ). At first, their primary jobs were to hunt large game and to pull heavy sleds. Today, they are used almost exclusively for pulling sleds.

Like other spitz dogs, Alaskan Malamutes are at home in very cold climates. They are descendants of the Arctic Wolf.

The history of these dogs go back some 2000 to 3000 years, when they were used as transportation by the Mahlemuit Eskimos of Alaska. They were also used to hunt large animals such as seals and polar bears. Since they are incredibly strong, they would then be used to haul the carcasses back to the villages.

During WWII, Alaskan Malamutes were used as service dogs and to help with search and rescue missions. They were also used to haul freight, and as pack animals. After the war, the popularity of the dog breed continued to grow.

They were officially recognized by the AKC in 1935.

Alaskan Malamute Care and Grooming

The Alaskan Malamute is a dog breed that is very much at home in cold climates. They are capable of running for miles in the snow without stopping, usually as part of a larger dog team pulling a heavy sled. So you can probably tell that they are high energy dogs. This means that they require daily exercise, usually long walks. However, be careful not to overexert them in warm and hot weather.

Fun and active games are an essential part of the lives of these dogs. Without proper physical and mental stimulation they will become bored, frustrated, and then probably destructive.

Malamutes have a thick, coarse double coat. Their heavy coats need a proper brushing twice weekly, every other day during shedding season. Because their coats sheds so easily, it is rarely dirty. So they hardly ever need to take a bath. By all accounts, Malamutes are clean and odorless.

They are very heavy shedders.

Health Problems of Alaskan Malamute Dogs

Alaskan Malamutes have an average life expectancy of about twelve to fifteen years.

The two main health issues that are common to this breed are cataracts and CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Other minor health concerns that may occur include hypothyroidism and chondrodysplasia. They also seem to be prone to bloat.

Veterinarians recommend that Alaskan Malamute dogs be tested for potential hip, thyroid, and eye problems.

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book:

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs 26 – 28 inches (66 – 71 cm) ; bitches 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm)
• Weight: dogs 75 – 120 pounds (34 – 54 kg) ; bitches 75 – 110 pounds (34 – 50 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Working Group – recognized in 1972
• Shedding: heavy shedder (twice per year)
• Living Conditions: fine in an apartment with sufficient exercise; moderately active indoors; best with a large yard

Personality of Akitas

Akitas are bold, courageous, independent, fearless. They are very loyal dogs and will protect their families at all costs. This makes them excellent watchdogs.

They are highly reserved around strangers and other animals. Without proper training, they can become aggressive towards other dogs and animals.

Akitas will generally be tolerant and good with children from their own families. However, they may not be as acceptable of other children and may bite if teased. For this reason, they should be supervised around children, and even around other pets. It is also recommended that you teach children from early on to respect dogs.

Akitas love being around their families. They will vocalize, but are not considered to be an excessive barker.

History of Akita Dogs

The Akita dog breed has its origins in Japan. In fact, their roots can be traced as far back as being found on ancient Japanese tombs. It is believed that the Akita today is the result of concerted efforts in the 19th century to recreate seven of Japan’s native dog breeds. Mostly fighting breeds were used in these efforts. Some of the dogs were purebred, but others were mixed breed.

Over time, Japanese dog breeders separated out some of the traits from these fighting dogs, notably, the pinto pattern, the black mask, and the dog’s incredible size. American breeders, on the other hand, were enthusiastic about these traits, and actually encouraged them.

The Akita Inu is one of the seven dog breeds that Japan has designated as a Natural Monument.

The first of the Akita dogs was brought to the United States by Hellen Keller in 1937. After World War II, many soldiers brought Akitas back home with them.

The AKC officially recognize the Akita dog breed in 1972.

Akita Care and Grooming

Akitas love being active and would do best with owners who live an active lifestyle. They require daily physical and mental stimulation. In fact, they enjoy being able to run for long distances, just make sure that they are in a safe area. If not, then a moderate jog, on leash, would be fine.

To keep them well behaved indoors, provide them with sufficient amounts of exercise and other activities.

The Akita has an unusual tolerance for cold weather and can do well outdoors in colder climates. They do not fare as well outdoors in very hot climates. But like all house dogs, they will prefer to sleep indoors with their families.

These dogs have a coarse, stiff, and short-haired coat. They need to be groomed regularly. A good brushing once per week with a firm bristle brush is necessary to remove any dead hair. This is especially important during shedding season. Bathe them only when it is necessary. Frequent baths can remove the natural waterproofing from their coats.

The Akita is a heavy shedder twice per year.

Health Problems of Akita Dogs

Akita dogs have an average life expectancy of about ten to twelve years.

The two major health problems affecting the Akita breed are PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Minor health concerns include:

• gastric torsion
• elbow dysplasia
• sebaceous adenitis
• hypothyroidism
• lymphosarcoma
• osteosarcoma
• pemphigus
• cruciate ligament rupture

Veterinarians also recommend that Akitas be tested for potential problems with their eyes, hips, elbows, and thyroid.

Best,

Omar Reyes

For even more information about this dog breed check out the book: