The sensational film “Hachiko: The Most Loyal Friend,” released in 2008, not only told the whole world the amazing story of dog loyalty, but also made the Akita Inu breed popular not only in Japan, but also in other countries. The story of the loyalty of the dog did not leave anyone indifferent from the audience, and many wanted to become the owner of the same unique dog. More than ten years have passed, and the popularity of Akita Inu is only growing. However, it is important to know that these dogs do not have a long life span. The task of each owner is to extend the years of his pet as much as possible.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of these dogs is 10-12 years. It is believed that females live longer than males, but only for a couple of months. Before World War II, the lifespan was 14–15 years, but the genetic background was violated by the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and since then the Akita Inu have almost never lived for more than 12 years.
According to breeders, you must initially choose a puppy from long-lived parents. These young have a genetic potential for longevity. Of course, the lifespan depends on the conditions of the dog.
Causes of Premature Death
Dogs of the breed can boast excellent health. Generally, the diseases to which Akita Inu are prone do not pose a mortal danger, however, constant malaise without treatment disrupts the animal's emotional background, physical discomfort does not allow for long walks, and this all becomes prerequisites for the emergence of early death.
Among congenital and acquired diseases in these puppies are the following ailments:
- entropy;
- hip dysplasia;
- bloating;
- glaucoma, cataract;
- pseudo-paralitic myasthenia;
- von Willebrand disease;
- retinal atrophy.
Treatment can also lead to a sudden death of the dog. Perhaps a particular animal is allergic or hypersensitive to certain drugs, which means that treatment with drugs will cause the opposite effect. Among the deadly diseases emit tuberculosis, rabies, false rabies - in this case, the dog is put to sleep, because there is no cure for these diseases.
Often leads to death irresponsibility of the owner. The owner, walking the dog without a leash, the animal can get under the car, get lost, become a victim of a stray dog pack.
How to extend?
To prolong the pet's life, it is necessary to provide him with suitable conditions.
Proper nutrition
Good animal health is the key to its longevity. Without proper nutrition it is impossible to maintain the health of the dog at the right level. Food that is commonly used to feed other dog breeds often becomes unsuitable for an Akita Inu. Genetically, this dog is descended from island ancestors that eat fish, seafood, rice, algae. Therefore, other foods, such as foods that are high in animal protein, may cause an allergic reaction in the pet, and therefore it is important to maintain the specified diet.
Including fish in the menu, you should buy only one-component product. They need to be fed at least twice a week. The number of fish servings should be equal to double servings of meat. Algae that are good for Akita Inu's health can be offered to your pet in pills. It is recommended to add cottage cheese, kefir, unsalted cheese, yogurt to the diet.Raw meat can be offered rabbit or horse meat, other species are allowed only in the absence of allergies. Allergies can also be caused by cereals, for example, wheat or oatmeal, but for buckwheat, rice or millet the body of these dogs responds well, therefore it is recommended to include these cereals in the diet.
To supplement the menu with vitamins and other useful elements, You can feed the dog with vegetables and fruits. Suitable carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, eggplant and other products that do not cause fermentation processes. Puppies are allowed to give fruit only when they reach four months of age. You can not offer dogs sharp and fatty foods. Spices, spices, sausage - all this has a negative impact on the health of the animal. Do not treat your pet sweets, although the dogs of this breed love pastry delicacies. Foods high in sugar lead to diabetes.
Suitable for Akita Inu and feeding dry ready food. Be sure to choose a premium product in this case and see if there is any allergy.
Observe the daily amount indicated on the package. Before choosing a feed, it is better to consult a veterinarian. He will study the state of health of the dog and select the most suitable diet for his weight.
Content
These dogs are characterized by long-term molt. Abundant hair loss can occur from January to February and from May to June. At this time, daily brush your pet. In the remaining months it is enough to comb the hair once a week. If the molt does not end, then it can be assumed that the dog is sick or is eating improperly. Also the cause of permanent hair loss may be too dry air in the apartment.
There is a special protective grease on the fur of the animal, which is important to maintain. Therefore, it is often not recommended to bathe a dog, it is enough to perform water procedures a couple of times a year. Especially since the Akita Inu can independently maintain their body clean, and large dirt is removed from the wool when combing.
Once a week the dog needs brushing his teeth, for this you can use a special tool. Inspect regularly eyes and ears. If discharge and an unpleasant smell are noticed, then the pet should be shown to the veterinarian. Once a month, trim the dog's claws. Animals living at home, they are poorly grind off, and therefore requires an artificial procedure.
Caring for an older dog
Every owner wants his four-legged friend to live with him as long as possible. Even an old animal with proper care can please the owner a few more years. To make an elderly Akita inu reach their natural end, follow these rules.
- A couple of times a year, visit a veterinary clinic, even if the dog does not have any symptoms of ailment. If there are signs of illness (the animal is passive, refuses to eat, tends to get into a dark corner), do not wait for the appointed date, take the pet to an off-plan specialist.
- Comb your dog more often. You can use special products for the care of wool.
- Continue to take the dog on the run in the same mode. Active walks significantly prolong the life of an elderly animal. But make sure that your pet is not overworked during a run.
- Do not allow an increase in body weight, reduce the volume of the daily portion. Pay special attention to your teeth.
- Try not to expose your dog to stress, avoid changing the situation, do not forget to still caress and scratch the dog. In old age, psychological comfort for an animal is very important.
You can learn more about Akita Inu from the following video.
