Instructions
Socialization
Take your young akita to puppy classes where it can interact with other puppies and humans. Akitas are known not to tolerate strangers and other dogs -- especially dogs of the same sex. Although this is not the case for every akita, it is a well-known trait of the breed.
Introduce your puppy to children. Akitas grow to be large dogs -- adult males can weigh more than 100 lbs. -- that can easily hurt a child or an adult. While an akita may accept children in its own family, it may not accept neighborhood kids. Introducing your puppy to children can help it become accustomed to them.
Take your puppy on puppy play dates with other puppy owners. This will aid in its socialization with other dogs and can help curb the aggressive tendencies many akitas show toward other canines.
Training
Remember not to begin your puppy's training with corporal punishment; as adults, most akitas cannot stand to be spanked, even on the rear or the nose.
Continue basic puppy training from the puppy class at home, using positive yet firm reinforcement. Positive reinforcement includes using treats and "happy talk" to let the dog know he is doing well. Dogs of all types respond well to positive reinforcement; most dogs are eager to please their owners.
Teach your puppy the behaviors you want to see when it's an adult. Akitas are intelligent dogs and retain their training easily.
How to Raise a Japanese Akita
The Japanese akita, a dog so renowned in its home country it is considered a national treasure, requires a firm, experienced dog owner who is not impatient. Known for their pride as well as their loyalty, akitas will not stand for being mistreated or for owners who use physical or harsh disciplinary methods. When raising a young akita, you must keep its temperament in mind, beginning with ensuring the dog knows you are its master.