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Why Is My Akita So Stubborn? (5 Causes & Fixes)

Akitas are well-known for their independence, intelligence, and strong-willed nature. While these traits are part of what makes them such a unique and fascinating breed, they can also manifest as stubbornness. If you’re finding it challenging to get your Akita to listen or follow commands, you’re not alone. Understanding why your Akita behaves this way and how to work with their personality will make training and living with them much easier.


What Makes Akitas Stubborn?

1. Breed History

Akitas were originally bred in Japan as hunting and guarding dogs. Their role required them to make independent decisions when tracking large game, such as bears and boars, or protecting their families. This history has ingrained a sense of autonomy into the breed.

  • Result: Akitas may be less inclined to obey commands blindly, as they’re hardwired to think for themselves.

2. High Intelligence

Akitas are highly intelligent dogs, but intelligence doesn’t always translate to eagerness to please. Unlike breeds like Labradors or Golden Retrievers, Akitas often evaluate whether a task is worth their effort.

  • Result: If they don’t see a clear benefit to following a command, they may ignore it or do things on their own terms.

3. Independent Nature

The Akita’s independence is a core part of their personality. They’re not overly reliant on humans for validation or guidance, which can make them seem aloof or uncooperative at times.

  • Result: Akitas prefer to make their own choices, which can come across as stubbornness during training.

4. Dominance and Confidence

Akitas are naturally dominant and confident dogs. Without proper training and boundaries, they may try to assert themselves as the leader of the household.

  • Result: They may resist commands or push boundaries if they don’t recognize you as a strong and consistent leader.

5. Lack of Motivation

Stubbornness in Akitas can sometimes be a sign of boredom or lack of motivation. If they find a task repetitive or uninteresting, they may simply refuse to engage.

  • Result: An unmotivated Akita may appear stubborn when they’re simply uninterested in the activity at hand.

How to Work with a Stubborn Akita

While Akitas may be strong-willed, they’re also incredibly loyal and capable of forming deep bonds with their owners. With the right approach, you can work with their personality instead of against it.

1. Be a Confident Leader

Akitas respond best to calm, confident leadership. Establishing yourself as the leader will help reduce pushback and encourage cooperation.

  • How to Do It:
    • Set clear rules and boundaries in the home.
    • Be consistent with commands and enforce them calmly.
    • Avoid harsh punishment or yelling, as this can damage trust.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Akitas are more likely to respond to training when they’re motivated by rewards.

  • How to Do It:
    • Use high-value treats, praise, or toys as rewards for good behavior.
    • Make rewards immediate and consistent to reinforce the connection between the command and the reward.
    • Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain their interest.

3. Be Patient and Persistent

Patience is key when working with a stubborn Akita. They may take longer to respond to commands compared to more eager-to-please breeds, but persistence pays off.

  • How to Do It:
    • Repeat commands calmly and consistently without showing frustration.
    • Celebrate small victories to build their confidence and willingness to cooperate.

4. Make Training Fun and Engaging

If training feels like a chore to your Akita, they’re more likely to lose interest. Keep sessions engaging and interactive to hold their attention.

  • How to Do It:
    • Incorporate play into training, such as games of fetch or tug-of-war.
    • Rotate between different commands and activities to avoid repetition.
    • Use puzzle toys or scent games to stimulate their mind.

5. Socialize Early and Often

A well-socialized Akita is more confident and less likely to display stubborn or dominant behavior in new situations.

  • How to Do It:
    • Expose your Akita to different people, animals, and environments from an early age.
    • Reward calm and positive behavior during socialization experiences.
    • Continue socialization throughout their life to reinforce good behavior.

6. Choose the Right Timing

Timing can make a big difference when training a stubborn Akita.

  • How to Do It:
    • Train your Akita after a walk or play session when they’re calmer and less energetic.
    • Avoid training when they’re tired, hungry, or overly excited.

7. Stay Consistent

Consistency is crucial when dealing with a stubborn breed like the Akita. Inconsistent commands or boundaries will only confuse them and encourage resistance.

  • How to Do It:
    • Use the same commands and rewards every time.
    • Ensure all family members follow the same training approach and house rules.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your Akita’s stubbornness leads to behavioral issues, such as aggression or destructive behavior, it’s best to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist. Look for someone experienced with strong-willed breeds like the Akita to ensure they use effective, positive reinforcement methods.


Final Thoughts

Akitas’ stubbornness isn’t a flaw—it’s a reflection of their intelligence, independence, and strong personality. By understanding their nature and working with their unique traits, you can build a strong, respectful bond with your Akita. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, even the most stubborn Akita can become a well-behaved and loyal companion. Remember, the key is to be as persistent and determined as your Akita!

Disclaimer

The advice given in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice in any context. Before making any decisions that may affect the health and/or safety of your dog, you should always consult a trained veterinarian in your local area. For the FULL disclaimer Visit Here


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