If you’re considering an Akita or already have one in your life, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about grooming your Akita, from essential care tips to the tools you’ll need. With proper grooming, your Akita will not only look and feel great but also stay healthy and happy. So, let’s dive in!
Understanding Your Akita’s Coat:
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of grooming, it’s essential to understand the different types of Akitas and their unique coat characteristics. There are three main varieties: Japanese Akitas, American Akitas, and Long Coat Akitas.
Japanese Akitas
Japanese Akitas, also known as Akita Inus, have a dense, double coat that’s soft and thick on the inside and straight and coarse on the outside. They’re usually lighter in color, with red, white, or brindle being common shades. Their coats are a bit shorter than their American counterparts.
American Akitas
American Akitas have a similar double coat, but their fur is slightly longer and heavier. They also come in a broader range of colors and patterns, including black, white, silver, and more.
Long Coat Akitas
As the name suggests, Long Coat Akitas have longer coats than their Japanese and American counterparts. They have a luxurious, flowing outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. This variety requires a bit more grooming attention due to the length and thickness of their fur.
Now that we’ve covered the different Akita varieties let’s dive into some essential grooming tips!
Essential Grooming Tips for Akitas
Akitas are known for their cleanliness and low odor, but they still require regular grooming to maintain a healthy coat and skin. They have a double coat, which means they have an underlayer and outer layer which helps regulate their temperature and protects their skin.
An Akita should never be shaven as this stops the double-coated benefits and can make them even hotter in warm weather, their fur also may never grow back the same, causing irreparable damage.
Here are some care tips to keep your Akita looking and feeling their best:
Brushing Your Akita’s Coat
Regular brushing is essential for all Akitas to help prevent matting, remove loose or dead hair, and distribute natural oils. You should aim to brush your Akita at least once a week. This will also help promote a healthy coat and skin. During shedding season (usually spring and fall), you may need to increase this to every day or every other day.
I try to brush and groom Logan, my American Akita, every few days. This also adds to our bonding time. Great to get them used to as a puppy!
Bathing Your Akita
Akitas don’t require frequent baths, and over-bathing can strip their coat of essential oils and their natural waterproofing ability. Aim to bathe your Akita at least once every 6-8 weeks, or as needed. Use a gentle, hypoallergenic dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation.
Nail Trimming
Trim your Akita’s nails every 4-6 weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. If you’re nervous about trimming their nails, consider using a nail grinder instead of clippers.
Ear Cleaning
Check your Akita’s ears regularly for signs of infection or dirt buildup. Clean their ears gently using a dog-safe ear-cleaning solution and cotton balls or gauze.
Dental Care
Maintaining your Akita’s dental health is vital for their overall well-being. Brush their teeth 2-3 times a week using dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush.
Robyn’s Top Tips For Akita Grooming:
“The best way to groom an Akita is a good bath and conditioning treatment, blasting treatment with the dryer, which will remove a considerable amount of dead undercoat fur. Once dried, you can get the rest of the loose undercoat with a decent brush. The best brushes to use on the Akita coat are a firm slicker brush, and a wide toothcomb to lightly go over the brushed fur. Positive rewarding and lots of treats is always a bonus to help make the grooming experience the best it can be! “
Grooming Tools and Equipment for Akitas: Budget to Professional
Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to invest in professional grooming equipment, there’s a wide range of tools available to suit your needs. Let’s explore the various options, from basic budget equipment to top-of-the-line professional gear.
Budget Grooming Tools
If you’re on a budget, don’t worry – you can still keep your Akita well-groomed with some affordable, essential tools:
- Slicker brush: A slicker brush is perfect for removing loose hair and preventing matting. Look for one with flexible bristles and a comfortable handle.
- Comb: A stainless steel comb with both wide and narrow teeth is excellent for untangling any knots and removing debris from your Akita’s coat.
- Nail clippers or grinder: Invest in a good pair of nail clippers or a nail grinder to keep your Akita’s nails trimmed and healthy.
- Ear cleaning solution and cotton balls: You’ll need a gentle ear-cleaning solution and some cotton balls or gauze for regular ear maintenance.
- Dog toothbrush and toothpaste: Choose a toothbrush designed specifically for dogs, and don’t forget to pick up some dog-specific toothpaste as well.
Professional Grooming Tools and Equipment
If you’re willing to splurge on some more advanced grooming tools, these options will make the process even more comfortable and efficient for both you and your Akita:
- Undercoat rake: An undercoat rake is designed to penetrate your Akita’s thick double coat and remove loose undercoat hair without damaging the topcoat.
- High-velocity dryer: A high-velocity dryer can make the drying process after a bath much faster and more comfortable for your Akita. These dryers are also excellent for removing loose hair during the shedding season.
- Grooming table: A grooming table with an adjustable height and a non-slip surface can make brushing, trimming, and other grooming tasks much more manageable.
- Professional-grade nail grinder: A high-quality nail grinder will make nail trimming more precise and comfortable for your Akita, with less risk of cutting the quick.
- Electric toothbrush for dogs: An electric toothbrush specifically designed for dogs can help you maintain your Akita’s dental health more effectively.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Akita Looking and Feeling Great!
With the right tools and techniques, grooming your Akita can be a breeze. Remember, proper grooming is essential for keeping your furry friend healthy, happy, and comfortable. By investing in the right tools and following our essential care tips, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring your Akita stays in tip-top shape. So, grab your brush, your Akita, and get grooming!
Why not take a look at Japanese Akita Inu vs. American Akita: What Should You Know?
Or look into History of the Akita Inu: 1 of the Great Japanese Breeds
