The Akita is not a long haired breed, but it is not exactly short haired either, so coat care is usually fairly manageable. However, if shedding becomes heavy, many owners become concerned. It helps to understand the common reasons in advance.
1. Understanding the Akita
Compared with some other breeds, the Akita does shed fairly heavily, but much of this is normal rather than a sign of disease. In many cases it is simply part of the breeds natural coat cycle. So if owners notice hair loss, they should not panic immediately or assume the dog has a skin disease.
2. The Akitas growth period
During the growth period, an Akita may lose fur in obvious clumps. People who are not familiar with the breed can be startled by this, but those who know Akitas recognize it as part of an awkward developmental stage rather than something that needs treatment. Akitas also go through coat changes twice a year, and once that period passes, the dog usually returns to looking very attractive again.
3. How to care for the coat
During shedding seasons and awkward growth stages, owners still need to care for the coat carefully. A special dog brush can be purchased, and just a little time each day spent brushing the Akita can help smooth the coat and support the growth of new hair.
4. Dietary support for the coat
In addition to regular brushing, owners should choose food that helps reduce excessive hair loss, especially lower salt dog food. Some people also use coat support formulas. The most important thing is that the Akita should not be fed human leftovers. Once owners understand the normal growth and coat cycle of the breed, they are much better prepared to care for an Akita and do not need to become too nervous every time some shedding appears.