Akitas are large, powerful dogs with a reputation for being fiercely loyal and protective. But do they really make good guard dogs? In this article, we will explore the history of the Akita breed, their natural protective instincts, and the training required to turn them into effective guard dogs.
History of the Akita
The Akita breed originated in Japan, where they were originally used for hunting and guarding. Akitas are known for their independence and strength, and they were prized for their ability to protect their owners from danger.
In the early 1900s, the Akita breed was nearly wiped out due to a combination of factors, including World War II and the popularity of other dog breeds. However, the breed was eventually revived, and today Akitas are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world.
Natural Protective Instincts
Akitas are naturally protective of their owners and their families. They are suspicious of strangers and will often bark or growl to warn them away. If a stranger does pose a threat, Akitas are not afraid to attack.
Training for Guard Dogs
While Akitas have natural protective instincts, they still need to be trained to be effective guard dogs. This training should start early in the dog’s life, and it should focus on teaching the dog to obey commands and to distinguish between real threats and harmless strangers.
Signs That an Akita Is Protecting Its Owner
There are a few signs that an Akita is protecting its owner. These signs include:
Barking or growling at strangers.
Standing between its owner and a stranger.
Hair standing on end.
Tense body language.
If you see any of these signs, it is important to take them seriously. Your Akita may be trying to protect you from danger.
Conclusion
Akitas are naturally protective dogs that can make good guard dogs with the right training. However, it is important to remember that Akitas are large and powerful dogs, and they can be dangerous if they are not properly trained. If you are considering an Akita as a guard dog, you should do your research and make sure that you are prepared to provide the training and care that the dog needs.
Additional Information
In addition to their natural protective instincts, Akitas also have a number of other qualities that make them good guard dogs. These qualities include:
Intelligence: Akitas are intelligent dogs that are easy to train.
Loyalty: Akitas are fiercely loyal to their owners and their families.
Size and strength: Akitas are large and powerful dogs that can be intimidating to potential threats.
If you are considering an Akita as a guard dog, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Akitas are large dogs and require a lot of space.
Akitas are high-maintenance dogs and require regular grooming.
Akitas are not suitable for everyone. If you are not prepared to provide the training, care, and space that an Akita needs, then this breed is not for you.
If you are considering an Akita as a guard dog, I recommend that you do your research and talk to other Akita owners before making a decision. These dogs can be wonderful companions, but they are not right for everyone.
