[Crystal]

Dear Ree---Thank you so very much for the immediate response to the message I posted. I am glad to hear you are a grandmother as I too have just become one myself as of Mid-April and this is another concern of mine, the grandchild going to visit (or never visit) his Aunt's house.
Can you help me out here--all comments welcome
My daughter came over with Titan (3 mo. old) and told me that he is now starting to bite, looks like he wants her to play. He seems to be crazy about her though-- she is the one who found him close to a week ago lost on a public street and extremely tired, full of fleas, and so thin his ribs were showing. He has grown happier by the day, literrally in leaps and bounds, after we got rid of his fleas with Frontline, and gone to the vet and got his shots and worming. He's happy he has a home and master, I can see this. I really would like to see her keep him, but I can't help still be worried, after all, she's my child, although she is now 25 yrs old. She is also a petite little girl, less than 5'3 and about 105 lbs.---another reason I'm concerned!
#1. "HOW" do you establish Dominance/Alpha Role without hitting them?
#2. Can you hit them with a newspaper (not hard, just enough to scare them?)---what do you do if they are biting at you and their sharp little puppy teeth hurt? When our pit bull did it as a puppy we literrally "put a sock in it" anything to keep those sharp teeth distracted on chewing something else besides us.
I told her not to tell him "no" to every little thing or he will not understand the importance of this important command one day in the future. I use "a sound" that instantly catches our dogs attention, has always worked on all the animals I've owned, kinda sounds like a deep throated or croaking sound of Ahhh!---closest thing I can come to describing it--- but means something akin to a "hey!"(knock that off)---for less important misbehaviors.
#3. Can you use STOP and NO or just one or the other?
#4. How do you get the puppy to learn to leave the cat alone?
#5. Good idea/bad idea to leave the cats food out? I know dogs will eat any food you leave laying about, even cat food.
#6. My daughter and her fiance have just bought "new" furniture recently, what do you suggest???!!! Do those sprays that keep them away from furniture work? I've never used them, I always used the "loud Ahhh!" or newspaper crack across my hand to make a loud noise, (or them) along with a NO~
#7. Is it OK to tap them "slightly" on the muzzle when they nip playfully, then say NO!
I am not understanding of the difference of a crate and putting them in the bathroom or a small room. Is the crate a "den" or a punishment? I'm confused on this.
He's the cutest little thing, I can't see him growing up to be a monster when I look at him and how my daughter already just loves him---this is the first animal she has ever "found," and he was extremely neglected.
However, I felt deep sympathy when I read about the woman who wrote on this message board about what happened to her poor pomeranian. I can't say what I believe I woud "want" to do if that happened to my dear pet, even though she is pit bull, I worry when my husband walks her in the park across the street that they won't come across another loose Pit Bull or Rottwieler, or Akita, and I have seen all these at various times in our neighborhood, even with your more unusual breeds such as the neighbor down the streets Pharoeh Dog.
I know alot of times I have worries about our pit bull, although everyone marvels at how good she is, she is also very very possesive if anyone comes near "her people" which include the other tenants in the four-family apartment where we live and share a fenced, our family and friends---she will not let ANY dog near them without growling fiercely at them and putting herself between the person/people and it----and over food! She's even worse---she will keep the dog away from the picnic table, the barbque pit by growling, snapping and backing the other dog off. I have to put her up, my husband says she acts like a but head, but she can't help it, its her breeds nature and NOTHING you can do will break her of this behavior. She's food possive, and possesive over people---like an Akita, but she would not act funny if my step-daughters came in the house while we were gone, my son or daughter, who do have keys to our apartment. She would not automatically bite the neighbor, who I don't particularly care for, and who comes up to visit my husband occassionally.
Then too, she's so very strong my husband is a big husky strong man and she is solid muscle and can put up one heck of a fight (with muzzle on) at the vets office. And smart!---she knows how to get even with us if we stay out a little longer than normal. (were natural homebodies) and although she leaves the trash alone, even when we do go out, a few hours to long will bring us home to a mess of trash all over our bed! It's not the food that she's after alot of times as the contents is not so much what she's after--but making the mess to show her displeasure with us.
Rees, I love my pit bull but I'll tell ya, just like I told my husband---I would NEVER own this breed again! I can't help but see an Akita as being bigger and possibly more problems than this. It seems like it would rack ones nerves to always have to worry about how the dog is going to respond to a stranger who stops to talk to you while your out walking with the dog, if a child runs by or through the yard after a ball, worse yet, kids that like to "tease" dogs. Are these things an Akita owner has to "always" be aware of? This is my biggest question I would like to hear an honest answer to.
I am glad to hear they will do well in an apartment with a small bedroom and just enough room on both sides to lie down on, I once had a Borzoi and he did just what Kujo does, speaking of Kujo, that was my daughter's first choice when considering names for him.
So, it's possible that he will not get along with the "declawed" cat they already own? This is a very important question, they do need to know the answer to, your feedback on this please.
Oh, is it possible that puppies can have "nighmares" when sleeping. Most dogs run, sometimes bark slightly in there sleep, make noises, I have had heard mine make whinning noises sometimes. ---we are hoping he wasn't abused by whoever owned him.
I can't think of anything else.
Please keep in touch with me, WE can really use hearing all the personal experience and advice you (and others) can offer Rees
Thanks again,
Xenia

[Crystal]

Common Sense Safety Tips
1. When dogs are spayed or neutered, their aggressive tendencies are oftentimes reduced. In fact, the Humane Society of the United States reports that spayed and neutered dogs are three times less likely to bite.
2. Socialize your dog. This means introducing your dog to a variety of people, other dogs, and experiences. A well-socialized dog is much less likely to become nervous or frightened under normal circumstances.
3. Dog training is “a family affair” each family member should participate. You and your family can learn proper training techniques by attending a dog-training class. These classes will also help to socialize your dog.
4. Teach your dog appropriate behavior. Your dog should be submissive, not aggressive; a dog is being submissive when it rolls over and exposes its belly or relinquishes food without growling. These behaviors can be taught.
5. Don't teach aggression. A dog learns aggression when an owner plays games such as wrestling, tug-of-war, or sick-ing the dog on another person. Never play these games or encourage any type of aggressive behavior.
If your dog exhibits aggressive behavior, immediately consult a professional, such as a veterinarian, an animal behaviorist, or a reputable breeder.
6. Never leave infants or small children alone with any dog!
7. Provide regular veterinary care, a sick or hurting dog can become aggressive and bite or attack.
Never allow your dog to roam.
8. Often in our parks we see owners letting their dogs run free. This is not only against the law, it is also dangerous, for everyone, dogs included!
9. Spend time with your dog. Dogs who are left alone for long periods of time in a crate, outside, or tied up often become dangerous. Well-socialized and supervised dogs rarely bite.
10. Know your dog and try to understand its behavior. If you are uncertain how your dog will react to a new situation, be extremely cautious. If you think your dog will over react or panic in a certain situation, it's best to leave him at home.

No breed is guaranteed to be 100% bite-free or attack-free.

In 2000, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that 25 breeds of dogs were involved in 238 fatal dog bites from 1979-1998. More than 50% of the deaths for which the breed was known were caused by Pit Bull type dogs and Rottweilers.*

Due to the high cost of dog bite liability claims, some insurance companies have blacklisted certain breeds and are refusing to provide homeowners insurance to those who own these dog breeds. Blacklisted breeds may include: Akitas, Alaskan Malamutes, American Staffordshire Terriers, Boxers, Chow Chows, Great Danes, Siberian Huskies, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Wolf Hybrids.---The Presa Canario breed came to the forefront when Diane Whipple was attacked and killed outside the door of her California apartment.

When it comes to the owner being responsible for damages; A showing that the dog owner "knew or should have known" of the canine’s dangerous propensities, is generally enough for the victim to obtain compensation in many states.

[Crystal]

What if your dog has obtained a disease, is sick and you have not yet come to realize it yet? It may become aggressive, bite another person, or even you. Do you know what to do?

First, try to remain calm. If the dog attacks you, you may be able to reduce injury by placing something between yourself and the dog, such as a purse, a coat, or a brief case. If you are unable to place something between yourself and the dog, take whatever action is necessary to stop the dog from attacking you.

Most all states authorize you to defend yourself in any way possible.
Depending on the severity of the attack and resulting wounds, you may or may not need to go to a hospital emergency room.

If you decide against seeking emergency medical care, immediately wash any wounds thoroughly with soap and water. Then consult your physician for additional care and advice. Keep records of medical visits and bills so that you can be reimbursed for your expenses.
Get the names and phone numbers of the dog's owner or keeper, as well as the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
If the dog isn't wearing tags, contact the animal control authorities to try to find the dog's owner.

Report the bite to your local animal care and control agency. If the dog does not have a current rabies vaccination, it may need to be quarantined. This is particularly important if the dog is a stray.

If the injury is due to someone else's dog injuring you (or your pet, as the woman with the Poms) you may wish to set up a consultation with an attorney who will obtain his fee when he settles your case. Your case may involve claims for mental anguish and emotional distress, pain and agony, besides medical/vet bills and lost wages.

[reeskujo]

OK..Where do I start.The pupppy biting.That's when you grab his muzzle and very firly tell him "NO Bite"I don't advice using a newspaper or anything else for that matter to swat an Akita with.You can guaranteee they won't take to it nicely.As for crate training.The crate is a safe comfortable spot for them.When their that little it's best to keep them in a crate when your not home.In fact their eventualy go init themselves.As for gainiing the Alpha role,it doesn't matter what size you are.I'm not much bigger then your daughter and Kujo doesn't give me a bit of a problem.You just have to start with training,rules and boundries right away and be consistent.Then they'll learn who's the boss.I've had to use what is called an Alpha role and literelly take Kujo to the floor when I first got him.Never had to do it again.As for the cat,I don't see that working out to well.I had a cat when I got Kujo,needlesss to say she ran away and truthfully he just wanted to play with her.Your a bit luckier then you think being the pup is so young.They have a chance to train him properly.Akita's can be great dogs,I wouldn't have anything but,however you have to train them right and be consistent and firm.I have a routine with Kujo.He'll let you in my house if I tell him it's ok.If I don't he'll go straight after you.Most especialy if my husband isn't here and I'm home alone.I would also get him neutered as soon as possible.To cut down on the aggression.You'll also find that he will become very protective over the baby.If my grandson cries,Kujo's right there wanting to know why and making sure someone tends to him,but I will also tell you that it is a golden rule with Akita's to never leave them alone with a child under 12.They'll be tolerant of their own but not always others.The training has to start now and be kept up with throughout the dogs life.They're alot of work especially once the shedding starts but their very loyal and loving to their family.My daughter,Son-In-Law and grandson could walk right through my front door if I wasn't home and Kujo would be thrilled.Anybody else and they'd never make it through the door.Socialization is a key factor for these dogs.In fact it's an absolute must.If they don't get use to different people they will learn to regard everyone as a threat and then you'll have a real problem.It wouldn't hurt to get him used to other dogs while he's a puppy either.Make sure they stay consistent with his training and don't back slide and never,ever hit them.You shouldn't do it with any dog but with an Akita your taking the chance of getting bit.They don't tolerate that.All I ever have to say to Kujo is a firm "NO"and he listens.Also remember as he gets older they may find on walks that he's trying to chase birds or smaller animals.I finally broke Kujo of it although he'll still try it once and again.This is a natural instinct for them.I give Kujo a tug on the leash,tell him NO and redirect him to another part of the yard.If we're getting ready to go outside and there's a bird sitting there I do the same thing and he won't pay it any mind.Also be aware that they will jump a fence less then 6 feet and will also dig under a fence to get out.That's probably the worst thing about them.They love to dig and they love to run away.Luckily Kujo never got to far.So just make sure they stay on top of him.He's going to be alot of work but if they do what they need to he can be a great dog.Let me know if you have anymore questions.

[reeskujo]

Hi,I was just wondering how things were going with your daughters puppy and if there was anything else I could help you with?Feel free to pm if you need to...Ree

[Nevada77]

I am a Akita lover as well!!!! I had a female Akita that was rescued many years ago. My step mom rescued her while I was still living at home. Poor girl was so skinny and timid. I had the pleasure of owning her about a year after I moved out as my parents started having children and could not care for her the way she needed to be. She adjusted very well and lived to be 13. I still miss her so much.

I now have a male Malamute/Akita cross who is nearly 7. His is a mommas boy and I love him to pieces. I will post pics! The first will be my girlie, RIP, then my boy!

[zig280]

i just had to say that i cant believe some of the utter garbage spewed in this thread. petshop girl, i sure hope you dont actually work with animals.


my family has owned, raised, shown, and bred akitas for over 35 years now. i'm only 21. to say the dogs were delighted when i came around is an understatement. i have photos that would seriously change people's minds on this breed.

this is a breed of dog that has raised me, that has protected me with their lives, that has guarded me, that has played with me (being an only child isnt so hard with 3 akita brothers), etc. the 'rap' theyre getting is disgusting.

Why? all because of irresponsible breeders and owners. there is nothing on this planet that i love more than an akita puppy. but i wish to god they werent so cute and bear-like.

doltish fools buy them. people with no back-bones and no idea what an "alpha" is. people who buy them because they just want a cute and cuddly bear cub. people who buy them from the cheapest puppy mill or BYB'er they can find first.

how do you think that dog was bred? how do you think that dog will be raised? if it doesnt end up in our vast, over-flowing rescue system, then it will end up dead, or killing someones dog or child unfortunately.

not on any fault of its own. but through the fault of it's greed-driven "breeder" (or peddler) and the 'buyer' who wanted a cute real-life bear cub that they werent even remotely prepared to handle.



i can agree with the first poster about rescues. despite all of my and my family's obvious breed history, despite having breeder references, etc. i was also turned down by rescue. why? i have a same sex household. same sex houses can and do work. i dont recommend it, and i dont think anyone should do it.

but we have done it our entire akita life-time with 12 dogs total.


with this breed, i think the most important thing to do is to say "never say never". when you do, you are seriously selling the smartest, most loyal, most loving breed short of all of its potential.

[PitBullLvr]

I've never had an Akita. My uncle used to have 2 of them. He's not a very good dog trainer though, so they were both pretty poorly behaved. They chewed everything! Other than that, though, I liked them. They were really nice dogs. They weren't mean or rough or anything & I was a very young child when he had them. I think I was only about 7 when they died. That, & the fact that my uncle lives in a different state so they didn't see me very often & weren't really used to young children & they were still really good around me, I think that says a lot.

[sevendogs]

Akita became popular, because of a lot of many touching publications and fiction. However, the breed has a long history of mixing authentic Japanese Akita with fierce fighting dogs imported from Europe for pitfights. Besides, in the past, Akita was a dog of samurais who were not particularly careful with plain folks and so were their dogs. Akitas were not well selected for compatibility with life in the society of people, because they were dogs of the previleged class people. There are still many Akitas, which are hardly compatible with children or other dogs. There are Akitas with genetic healthy problems. If you want a good Akita puppy, look among breeders with only a few dogs. Prefer an older parents with proven good balanced temperament and health. The older the parents, the better. Many dog breeders do not breed their dogs, if they are over 5-6 years old. Many bad hereditary health problems show up in older dogs. Selecting older, but active, intelligent and free from illnesses parents allows to reduce chances of buying a puppy with genetic faults.

[reeskujo]

Sevendogs....Very good advice.I just wanted to add that although it's true most Akita's don't do well with children it should be known that the Japaneses used to leave their children in the care of their Akita's when they would leave the home.While Akita's are not very tolerant of strange children they usually do quite well with the children in their home.My Akita loves my grandbabies and is very protective over them.My grandson is 3 and will often Pull on Kujo's tail and such and Kujo doesn't show any response to it although my grandson has now been taught that he is not aloud to do that,and yes same sex households can work.When I was breeding I had three females and two males and never had a problem,they were however raised together since pups.I do not however recomend it especially those not familiar with the breed.As was said in an earlier post they are one of the most intelligent,loyal,loving breeds you can ask for and if you establish Alpha right away and consistently reinforce their training and your alpha status they are great dogs.I do not recommend them for first time owners as their temperment and disposition requires alot of work,training and consistency and it must be ongoing and alot of people are not ready to handle such a challenge.I can tell you I've had great success with mine and will never own another breed.Unfortunetly the Akita is as misunderstood as the PitBull.It's all about the owners and the breed and how well their socialized and trained!