I Studied My Akita and Found the Suitable Weather for Akita Dogs

If you’re an Akita dog owner, I understand how much you care about your furry friend. As a pet parent, you want to ensure that your dog is happy and healthy at all times. That’s why it’s important to understand your dog’s specific needs, including the impact of weather on their well-being which is what this article on suitable weather for akita dogs aims to do. 

If you’re curious about what weather conditions are best for your Akita, I’m here to provide you with a helpful guide. I studied my Akita and asked other Akita owners and I’ve provided some of the findings I got.

Let’s learn together and ensure that your furry friend is always comfortable and content.

What is a Suitable Weather for Akita Dogs?

Based on my research, I understand that Akita dogs are best suited to living in temperatures of -30°F in cold places, while temperatures of 86°F/30°C are ideal for them in hot or warm climates. However, they are most comfortable in mild weather, ranging from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius.

If the temperature gets too high, it can be uncomfortable for your furry friend. In such cases, it’s best to shift them to a shaded place where they can relax and cool off. A suitable temperature for your Akita to enjoy activities like running and hiking in hot weather is 68°F/20°C. 

Can Akitas Live in a Hot Climate?

Your Akita can definitely survive in a hot climate, but it may not be entirely comfortable. If you’re moving from a cold climate to a hot one, your Akita may have a hard time adapting. This is because your Akita needs to shed its coat to be ready for the hot weather. 

If it has developed its double coat due to the cold climate you’re moving from, it could be difficult for it to shed in time to adapt to the hot weather.

Akitas can live comfortably in hot climates as long as they are kept indoors or shielded from direct sunlight. 

Do Akitas Overheat Easily?

Akitas, with their double coat of fur, are known to be prone to overheating. This is because their undercoat acts as an insulator, trapping heat close to their body. 

However, there are several ways you can prevent your Akita from overheating. Firstly, it’s important to keep them in a cool environment, especially during the summer months. If you live in a region that experiences hot weather, you may want to consider keeping your Akita indoors during the day and only taking them out for walks during the cooler parts of the day. 

Additionally, you can help your Akita regulate their body temperature by providing them with access to plenty of fresh water and shade. 

Lastly, it’s worth noting that Akitas are adapted to living in colder environments, so if you live in a colder region,your Akita may never experience overheating. This is because they grow a thicker coat of fur during the cold weather, which helps to insulate their bodies and keep them warm. 

As the weather becomes warmer, they will naturally shed their fur, allowing them to stay cool.

How to Know When the Weather is Too Hot for Your Akita

When your Akita is overheating, there are a few ways you can tell. They include:

Excessive Panting

One of the most common signs that your Akita is too hot is excessive panting. When they’re too warm, their body will try to cool down by panting, which can result in rapid and heavy breathing. If you notice your Akita panting more than usual, it’s important to take action to help them cool down.

Glazed Eyes

Another sign of overheating in Akita dogs is glazed eyes. This occurs when their eyes appear to be foggy or glazed over, and it can be a sign that their body is struggling to regulate its temperature. If you see this, it’s a good idea to take your Akita to a cooler place and give them some water to help them cool down.

Dry Nose

Lastly, a dry nose is another indicator that your Akita may be overheating. When their body is too warm, they may become dehydrated and their nose will become dry as a result. This is a sign that they need water and immediate attention to cool down.

If you notice any of these signs in your Akita, it’s important to take steps to help them cool down. Make sure they have access to plenty of water and take them to a cooler place, such as an air-conditioned room. 

Additionally, avoid exercising your Akita during the hottest parts of the day and never leave them in a parked car, as this can quickly become a dangerous situation for them.

What to do to Cool Your Akita When It is Overheating?

When your Akita is overheating, it is important to take immediate action to cool it down. One of the most effective ways to keep your dog cool is to provide it with plenty of cool water. In addition, it is crucial to keep your dog indoors or in the shade to avoid exposure to direct sunlight and hot temperatures.

If air conditioning is not available, I’ll recommend you find the coolest area of your home. This could be a basement or a room with good ventilation. You should also consider using a fan or opening windows to increase airflow and help lower the temperature. It is important to keep a close eye on your Akita’s behavior and physical condition during hot weather. 

Can Akitas Get Cold?

Yes, Akitas can get cold, but they are generally well-suited for cold weather climates due to their thick double coat and historical adaptation to cold environments. However, there are some temperature thresholds to be aware of:

• Temperatures below 32°F (0°C) are the starting point where owners need to be more cautious about the cold for Akitas. 
• Around 5°F (-15°C) is considered the middle ground where it starts to become a concern, as breathing in very cold air can potentially cause lung stress and damage over time.
• 0°F (-18°C) is often the cut-off point where it gets too cold for Akitas to be outside for extended periods, as their paws can start getting frostbite at this temperature.

Factors that affect an Akita’s cold tolerance include their age, health status, and the specific environment. Proper care like providing warm shelter, limiting time outdoors in extreme cold, and using winter gear like booties can help keep Akitas safe and comfortable in cold weather.

Final Thoughts on Suitable Weather for Akita Dogs 

We can assume that the Akita is an all-weather dog because it sheds its double coat to prepare for warmer seasons. However, there are times when the weather conditions can be adverse even for a unique dog breed like the Akita. This is why we must watch the signs of discomfort your dog may show when they are not comfortable with the weather. Then take the necessary steps to ensure they are comfortable.