How To Stop An Akita From Biting
Training an Akita can be a challenge. These handsome, quiet dogs are very strong willed and can be a challenge for the inexperienced dog owner. If you have not had a dog before, this may not be the one to start with.
When you get that cute, fluffy puppy, you should begin training as soon as you bring him through your door. By waiting to begin training you are jeopardizing the possibility of a true pet in your home. House training is the easiest training you will encounter with your Akita. Teaching your Akita to stop biting is another story completely.
Teaching an Akita right from wrong should begin immediately. Dogs learn with their mouths. Just as a child will put anything into their mouths, so will a dog. It is their way of exploring. Having toys available for your puppy may prevent them from biting other things in your home including hands and ankles. Correct your puppy immediately if he takes your hand in his mouth. Replace that hand with a toy after you give a strong verbal command to stop. Do it consistently and with authority. You are his pack leader and need to let him know that early on.
Do not engage in games such as tug with an Akita. When playing with your puppy, do not allow him to take your hand in his mouth. A loud verbal command such as “stop” or “ouch” and removing your hand and replacing it with an appropriate toy will be a step in the training.
If your puppy does not bite too hard, but still continues to bite, your can try discouraging it by holding the lower jaw between your forefinger and thumb. Do this after they take your hand into their mouth., don’t squeeze hard, just hang on gently as he moves his head around. Doing this repeatedly for about ten seconds at a time will give your puppy the idea. The next time you approach the dog with your hand, if it licks or ignores you, give a great deal of praise.
While this may work for a puppy, stopping a mature dog from biting will require other methods. You may need a muzzle. This is especially true if your dog reacts to pain or visitors with a bite. You will need to muzzle the dog when going to the vet or other area that is unfamiliar and whenever guests are expected in your home.
You have to let your dog know that the behavior is unacceptable. Every time your dog growls or nips you need to verbally or physically correct him. Train your dog to behave and react appropriately to every command. The basic sit, stay, come should never be ignored. Use them as commands at meal time and don’t feed until your dog obeys. With an Akita, it is then time to leave the dog alone. Do not allow anyone near the dog when eating.
Enforce territorial boundaries. Let your Akita know what is your space and what is theirs. If necessary remove the dog from the area and place in an acceptable one.
Never play aggressive games with your Akita. Their natural instincts are aggressive enough. Introducing your dog to new surroundings and people will lessen the possibility of aggression.