r/akita

So Akitas are known for their aggression towards others dogs but also their absolute devotion to their owners.

I am currently reading a really interesting book about the domestication and evolution of dogs.

It talks about Wolves and Hunter gatherers and how Wolves were likely scavenging, then fed by people as they were found useful, then litters born in the camps/settlements etc

It also talks about other animals where domestication was either successful or attempted and how say a wild monkey for example if taken as a tiny baby could be tamed but if taken as an adolescent could not and talks about how all social animals have a sense of self related to their group therefore an animal raised in captivity socialised with humans will struggle to socialise with its natural group as it doesnt identify with them and vice versa.

So that got me thinking.... Could that theoretically be the reason Akitas tend to be dog aggressive? Could their extreme bond with their owners be the reason?

Just a random theory but find it interesting and I would be interested to hear everyone elses thoughts on this xx

The most important thing to me is an independent pet, yes, even if that comes with stubbornness. My worst fear is being stuck at uni for a whole day and my dog becoming restless, anxious, destructive and wailing until I come home (no, I don't leave the house for 12 hours a day on a daily basis, in fact I'm a homebody, notorious serial ditcher of classes and plans with friends, I'm married to my kitchen, I'm married to my slippers and house robe). I've considered adopting, I've considered many many other breeds, but every time, there's uncertainty about wether I can realistically expect a dog to be able to handle alone time. That's my absolute biggest concern, otherwise I'm sure I have the free time, discipline and means to care for a dog adequately. Of course, there's other things I'd *like*, for example: intimidation factor/protection (I'm a woman living alone), calm nature, not being banned on public transport etc.

The dilema is as follows, clearly, a Shiba Inu is more manageable in size, but I don't know if the same is true personality wise. As far as I know, Japanese akitas are quite calm and aloof, they're energetic enough that I can take them on long walks (I love long walks), but don't demand a 10k every morning less they eat the couch. My possible concern with the shiba is their (seemingly) friendly nature, I feel like I'm being really paranoid, but again, I don't want to live uncertain of wether my pet is doing alright on its own.

Would you say that shibas are more prone to separation anxiety and destructive behaviour? Is it actually the akitas who are worse in this sense? Do you think the pros (manageable size/pray drive/less fur to shed) outweigh the possible cons?

Thanks!

(some answers: I live alone in a 1st floor apartment, easy outdoor access, yes I have the free time needed, yes I know they shed an insane amount, yes, I know about same sex aggression, and general other animal aggression, and territorial behavior, and not listening to commands, and being generally stubborn, and not being people pleasing)