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Feeding

Feeding your Akita Inu well

Japan

The Akita Inu can be selective about food and sometimes does not tolerate certain formulas rich in cereals well. Its diet must remain of good quality, digestible and adapted to its age, its size and its activity level.

A menu for every age

Their needs change as they grow

  • Puppy: Growth food adapted to the expected size, divided into three meals, without unnecessary calcium supplementation.

  • Adult: Controlled ration in two meals, adjusted to ideal weight and actual activity.

  • Senior: Digestible food, possibly less energy-dense, with joint and dental monitoring.

Which food?

Kibble, wet food, or homemade meals?

A premium diet rich in good-quality animal proteins is preferred, with a simple and digestible composition. Well-formulated kibble for large dogs may be suitable, as may a properly balanced home-cooked or raw ration under competent supervision.

Portion sizes

How much should you feed?

The daily amount must be adapted to the weight, activity and energy density of the chosen food. In this large dog, it is better to avoid excesses, split the meals and regularly monitor body condition to adjust the ration.

WeightDaily amountMeals per day
30 - 37 kg511 - 699 g2
37 - 45 kg542 - 736 g2
45 - 52 kg630 - 853 g2

Changing food

How to switch foods successfully

Any change in diet must be done gradually over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. A gentle transition also makes it possible to check good tolerance of the new formula.

Hydration

Don't overlook water

Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Vigilance is increased in hot weather, after exercise or when feeding a dry diet exclusively made up of kibble.

A little extra

Treats in moderation

Treats should remain occasional and be included in the calculation of the overall ration. They are useful for training, but their quantity must be limited so as not to unbalance the daily energy intake.

Good habits

Make mealtimes count

  • Weigh the ration each day rather than serving by volume.
  • Avoid intense exercise just before and after the meal.
  • Deduct training treats from the daily ration.

Never feed these foods

As with other dogs, you should avoid chocolate, grapes, onion, garlic, avocado, cooked bones, alcohol, caffeine and sweeteners such as xylitol, as they can cause severe digestive disorders, neurological poisoning or liver and kidney damage.

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