Top Activities For Akitas

Introduction

Akitas are an interesting and very fluffy breed of dog. Don't let their cuteness fool you, they were bred to protect Japenese royalty originally and have always held a status of honor in that country. If you have one of these dogs, you know they won't let you forget how special they are. While sweet and playful with their owners, these dogs can be shy when meeting strangers, and their smart intellect means they can be bored easily without entertainment. Finding activities for Akitas to thrive in the house and society isn't too hard. There are plenty of games and activities that are perfect for these interesting dogs.

Pet Store Stroll

Most Popular

2 Votes

Any Day

Free

Normal

30 min

Items needed

Treats

Leash

Activity description

Socializing your Akita starting from a young age is a crucial part of their development. These dogs have a tendency to become aggressive if they don't have exposure to all different kinds of people in and outside their families. One of the best activities for Akitas to get them this exposure is to take them on a walk around the aisles of your local pet store. You can teach them how to greet store employees and show them that people bring fun, affection, and treats. The more you go, the more exposure they will have and the more comfortable they will be with strangers.

Step

1

Call ahead

Before you bring your puppy to a pet store to practice meeting people, make sure that dogs are allowed inside. Though most stores that cater to canines are dog-friendly, it's best to check before you walk in with your fluffy ball of love and have to walk back out. It's important to follow all store rules while you are visiting, and if your puppy has an accident, clean it up. Most pet stores have an accident station for these mishaps.

Step

2

Teaching manners

When you bring your puppy to a pet store for socialization, you will no doubt have many willing volunteers. It's up to you to teach your dog the correct way to approach a new friend. The store employees and shoppers will understand if you need to take a moment to settle your dog before they say hello. When they do make contact, don't allow jumping or nipping. Have each person ask the dog to sit and lay down. They can rub your puppy's belly and touch their feet and ears before giving the puppy a treat.

Step

3

Keep practicing

As dogs get older and turn into teenagers, it's crucial to continue social outings to the pet store. Make sure you're consistently asking them to meet new people politely and reinforcing good behavior. As your dog becomes more strongwilled, following your lead in the pet store will become even more critical in developing a well rounded and social dog.

Obedience Training

Popular

2 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Normal

30 min

Items needed

Treats

Clicker

Leash

Activity description

Akitas are tough dogs with a stubborn streak who were bred to protect and take charge of their families. It's important that you, as the owner, take the time to obedience train your dog starting from day one. Your dog will learn to obey whoever is training them, so sending the dog off for training is not a good option. Fortunately, obedience training your dog is one of the best activities for Akitas and will help you create a strong bond that will last for the life of your dog. The earlier you start the better.

Step

1

Find a class

Akitas can be stubborn and hard to train, and they react poorly to rough or aggressive treatment. Taking a puppy training class will not only teach your dog basic ground rules, but a good trainer will also be able to teach you the foundation of working with your Akita. Make sure your trainer has experience working with stubborn and sensitive dogs. You didn't adopt a Lab, so don't expect the same techniques for teaching Labs will always work for you.

Step

2

Consistency is key

Carve out time once or twice per day to work on your obedience training in between classes. Repetition and consistency is the key to teaching your dog any obedience skill and also to establish yourself as the leader. If you consistently show up for your Akita, they will show up for you and treat you as the leader. Inconsistency and lack of attention to training will allow an Akita to think they are the boss.

Step

3

Involve the family

Akitas learn to respect and trust the people who work closely with them. This is the reason you should never send them out for training. In addition, each member of the family or anyone who will be interacting with you Akita should take part in the training. You can make a family game out of it by taking turns being the leader, calling commands, and instructing the dog. Your Akita will learn to love and respect each person who works with them.

Snowshoeing

Least Popular

1 Vote

Cold Day

Cheap

Easy

30 - 60 min

Items needed

Snow shoes

Leash

Activity description

One of the best activities for Akitas is to head out on a snowshoe expedition. These dogs are made for winter with their thick, furry coats and semi-webbed feet. They easily float through the snow and have no problem staying out in the cold for hours at a time. Your Akita will be a very willing companion on frosty days and will be just as pleased as you to wander on snowy trails. Though, your dog may be more interested in chasing rabbits tracks than staring at the scenery. These dogs love snow and cold weather so a snowshoe trek is just the ticket to exercise and entertain them.

Step

1

Find the perfect trail

Many places are wonderful for snowshoeing, but not all areas allow dogs. Do your research first before you decide on a trail so you won't end up with a disappointed Akita. You can call your local cross-country ski and snowshoe resort to see which trails are dog-friendly. They may also be able to suggest some forest service trails that allow dogs and are a good length and difficulty level for you. Choosing the right trail can make all the difference.

Step

2

Start walking

The best part about snowshoeing is how easy it is to start enjoying nature. Just strap on the snowshoes and start walking. Your Akita will love following along at your side as you hike. Be mindful that they don't get snowballs stuck in their paws and that they stay with you. An excited Akita can easily hop off after a rabbit or squirrel and leave you on the trail during their excursion.

Step

3

Stop for breaks

Make sure you stop once and a while to take a break and enjoy the natural beauty of the trail. You don't have to worry about your Akita getting cold with all that hair, but it's an excellent idea to bring a thermos of hot chocolate or tea for you. You can bring your dog snacks to keep their energy up, and if you're gone for a long time be sure you bring them water as well.

More Fun Ideas...

Go on a Walk

Akitas make great walking companions. They are happy to stroll with you anywhere, especially during the cooler months. If you work with your dog to properly leash train them, a walk will be a relaxing activity any day of the week.

Spa Day

Your Akita's coat needs lots of attention to keep it sleek and beautiful. Take a day and book a human/doggy spa package together. You both can get your nails done, have your hair blown out, and even enjoy a massage together.

Conclusion

Akitas are bold and beautiful characters. If you are lucky enough to own one, you'll always be in good company no matter where you take them. They are not the easiest breed of dog to keep. Owners need to have lots of activities for Akitas on hand to make sure they know and respect their leader, are properly socialized, and don't become bored. Though they don't need a great deal of exercise, they do need to play or go for walks on a regular basis. You can include them in many family activities or challenge them with training games. They will always be happy to be at your side.