Good Manners, to us, means having a dog that is welcome everywhere.  Time and time again, we see people with dogs with such an array of behavioral issues that life with them is less than pleasant.  We believe in having dogs that are well behaved not only in our house, but anywhere else we choose to bring them.  This translates into a dog that is a) confident in unfamiliar surroundings, b) good with strangers, especially children, and c) polite around other dogs.  A good, sound temperament also translates into a dog that is confident and well adjusted in the show ring.  

Good manners start with the selection of the right puppy and continue throughout your dog’s lifetime.  The sections below provide a few tips on how, starting from day one, you can begin you and your puppy on a path towards a wonderful, fulfilling relationship. If you are visiting this site, chances are, you are considering an Akita.  Akitas are NOT for everyone.  If you are new to Akitas, or don't know too much about them, We suggest you read the excellent article by Sherry E. Wallis on the Akita temperament before going on:

THE AKITA TEMPERAMENT

WHAT IS THE RIGHT DOG FOR ME?  

With the literally hundreds of popular dog breeds today, it’s easy to pick a dog based on looks.  Think about it, how many times have you walked by the window of a pet store (NO PET STORES PLEASE!) and seen a cute little face just staring up at you, just begging to be rescued.  You may know nothing about the breed, but a half hour later, you and puppy are on your way home.  Only weeks or months later do you realize that the needs of this particular puppy do not match the needs of your lifestyle?  Trouble ensues and more often than not, puppy ends up at a shelter and you feel like a failure. 

There is so much involved in picking a puppy that it’s important to know what you are getting.  Doing the legwork BEFORE getting your new dog will prove to be a huge benefit.  Here are some tips on selecting a breed that is right for you.  There are only a  few things listed, but they should get you thinking in the right direction.

  1. Decide if you want a purebred dog or mixed breed (what we like to call “designer dogs”).  If you don’t want a purebred dog, find out what rescue organizations and shelters are in your area and find out which ones are reputable.  If you do want a  purebred dog, decide if this dog is going to be a show dog or companion dog.  This will affect your choice greatly.
  1. Examine your lifestyle and home environment – How much time will you have to devote to raising this puppy?  How much exercise will you be able to give the puppy?  Is your yard fenced or not?  How big is your house?  Can you accommodate the size dog that you want in your living quarters, etc.
  2. Research Breeds – Search the Internet, read breed specific books and talk to breeders AND owners to find out as much as you can about the breeds you are interested in.  Talk to local veterinarians or dog trainers to see what they can tell you about the breeds you have selected.

FINDING A PUPPY

Once you have decided on a breed, now  comes the process of finding a puppy.  Take your time.  Try not to jump at the first cute puppy you see.  Remember, if you are lucky, this dog is going to be your companion for the next ten to fifteen years, so taking a bit more time to ensure you get the right one is well worth it.  Talk to as many breeders as you can.  Contact a breeder referral service or search the internet for listings of the breed you are looking for.  There are some important questions you should ask the breeders you choose to call, as well as some questions that a reputable breeder will want to ask you.  At the bottom of this section is a link to an article that lists these questions.

Make sure to ask breeders for the names and phone numbers of people who have gotten dogs from them.  Call them to see what they can tell you about their experiences.   If you are looking for a show dog, you will also want to ask questions about the success of the breeders dogs in the show ring.

FINDING A GOOD BREEDER