Comments on: How can i help my japanese akita malt quicker?

By: Terry P

Terry P — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 08:12:34 +0000

Double coated breeds like the akita (which I've had for 30yrs) blow coat normally 2x a year..IF they are outside dogs. Due to a/c – heating indoor dogs will blow coat but often continue to shed if not brushed/stripped of the undercoat completely. Never shave (unless for medical reasons as they do not matte) an akita…even in the heat they will shed the hair they need and what is left is needed to protect the animals skin that was never meant to see the sun. Using a good stripping brush (not a wire brush) will help get the hair out also a bath helps. I have never bathed an akita in the tub…even for shows we go outside, stand and use a hose. Keeps you both happy. First problem is NO healthy akita should snap/growl etc when you brush it. Worrying about the hair is minor compared to the other problem you have. Dogs need socialization just like children…make using the hose something that is looked forward to…give him a treat and lots of praise…I have a feeling he's a non-neutered male…get him neutered and obedience trained for yourself and your family. I'll be happy to answer any questions you have.

By: Jen

Jen — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 00:39:26 +0000

A good brush everyday will sort it out, it may take about half an hour a day and you will have a huge pile of fur by the end of it! If your dog won't let you brush him then you've got a serious problem and should see a trainer. Brushing should be part of the dogs routine anyway, it is good to have the dog used to having every part of his body handled and is a great way to bond. It should be something he enjoys. Mine also don't like water, but if you rub them down with a damp cloth then brush away as much as you can it makes it come off easier and stops it flying around the house! Also, if he is moulting all year round I would get some blood work and an overall health check done, moulting too much can be a sign of a health problem.

By: wolfkiss

wolfkiss — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 21:23:02 +0000

Good question….I have two female Akitas and this is the only problem I have with the breed…..lol…….I brush and brush and brush……I am looking at my dogs as I am typing. My youngest is still shedding, I think it has been about three months now. I don't usually pull the fur out. I use a comb. I just wish I was talented to make something out of their fur. Good luck

By: Mom of Three

Mom of Three — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:26:09 +0000

Molt – sometimes referred to as blowing their coat.

Get a good undercoat rake and start raking. There is no point in bathing a dog with a double coat unless they get into something truly nasty.

Also, better food will make the shed easier on you. Here's a link to help you evaluate food.

Good luck!

By: Alli

Alli — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 17:28:02 +0000

Brushing with a long fur brush should help with that. If you are tired of all the fur you can shave them, but that takes away all the beauty from the breed.
Good luck.

By: Baby Rotty

Baby Rotty — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 23:44:14 +0000

exercise will make him quicker, and my dog was also afraid of water. i put him on a tight leash and then put him in the tub (full of water) and he'd bathe like that. but if you want your dog faster you do the same thing we would do as people work out our leg muscles by running MORE.
Hope This Helps!