Introduction
Finding the best Dog Foods for Akitas can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, formulas, and opinions out there!
Don’t worry, this guide will help you understand what your Akita needs and find the best choices for them.
These majestic dogs need high-quality food that fuels their boundless energy.
Key Nutritional Needs of Akita Dog
- Protein Power: Akitas are powerful dogs. best food for American akita should have high-quality protein to keep their muscles strong. Look for foods where real meat, poultry, or fish are the first ingredients.
- Healthy Fats: The Good Stuff: Don’t fear fat! It helps your Akita’s skin and coat shine, and it gives them long-lasting energy. Think salmon oil, and chicken fat – the healthy kinds of fat make a difference.
- Carbs: Fuel with Benefits: Akitas can get energy from carbohydrates, but choose wisely. all grains are better than processed ones.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Think of these as the tiny superheroes for your Akita’s health. Vitamins and minerals are important for strong bones and boost the immune system.
Choosing the Best Food for Your Akita
- Puppy Power: Growing Akita puppies need special food for strong bones and development. Look for “puppy formula” on the bag.
- Adult Fuel: Adult formulas keep completely grown Akitas at a healthy weight.
- Senior Support: As your Akita gets older, their bodies slow down. It has fewer calories and special nutrients to support joints and digestion.
- Wet or Dry? The Great Debate: Both can be great! Wet food has extra moisture, but dry food is convenient and good for their teeth. You can even mix them!
- Detective Time: Reading the Label: Don’t let fancy packaging trick you. Flip the bag over and look at the ingredients. The best stuff should be at the top of the list (meat, good fats, etc.).
- Big Dog, Big Food?: Sometimes, food made for large breeds is a good option for Akitas. It might have adjusted nutrients and kibble size for a better fit.
Our Best Dog Food for Akitas
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection (Dry Dog Food for Akitas)
- Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner
- Merrick Healthy Grains Senior (Best for Senior Akitas)
- Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice (Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Akitas)
- Now Fresh Grain-Free Large Breed Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food (Best for Adult Akitas)
- Instinct Raw Boost Large Breed Puppy Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Best for Akitas Puppies)
- CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food (Best for Akitas With Allergies)
- Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat (Best Dog Food for Akitas with Sensitive Skin)
- Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Canned Dog Food (Best Wet Food)
- Purina Pro Plan Adult Dry Dog Food (Best Budget Dog Food)
- Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food (Best for Weight Loss)
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Dry Dog (Best for healthy joints)
12 Best Dog Foods for Akitas Reviewed
These dog foods meet AAFCO guidelines. Always talk to your vet before changing your Akita’s diet.
01- Blue Buffalo Life Protection (Dry Dog Food for Akitas)
Akitas has special needs, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection promises to meet them. But does it live up to the hype? And is it also good for our strong Pit Bulls? Let’s find out!
The Good:
- Protein for Power: Build strong muscles! Feed your Akita and Pittie high-quality protein.
- LifeSource Bits: Blue Buffalo’s unique addition of antioxidant-rich kibble pieces for immune support.
- Joint Support: Keep your big dog active! Glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy joints.
The Not-So-Good:
- Contains Grains: Might not be ideal for dogs with sensitivities or grain allergies.
- For Sensitive stomachs: This formula’s gentle flavor may be easier to digest for some dogs.
- Bigger Bag = Bigger Cost: Premium food for large breeds comes with a premium price tag.
Ideal For:
- Healthy, Active Large Breeds: Great choice for Akitas and Pit Bulls who need joint support.
- Owners Seeking a Trusted Brand: Blue Buffalo is a well-known brand that focuses on science-based nutrition.
- Maintaining Healthy Weight: Balanced calories help maintain ideal weight, crucial for joint health.
02- Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe promises a comforting, meat-and-potatoes approach to dog food. But is this traditional formula the right pick for your energetic Pittie? Let’s find out.
The Good:
- Real Chicken First: Quality protein builds and maintains those powerful muscles.
- Wholesome Goodness: Brown rice, sweet potatoes, and garden veggies deliver balanced nutrition.
- Flavor Dogs Love: The stew-like texture and classic flavors can be a hit with many pups.
The Not-So-Good:
- Moderate Protein: May not be the top choice for highly active Pit Bulls needing extra muscle fuel.
- Contains Grains: Might not be suitable for those with grain sensitivities or allergies.
- Not the Most Exciting: Picky eaters seeking bolder flavors might turn their nose up.
Ideal For:
- Dogs Enjoying Simple Recipes: Simple and delicious! Perfect for dogs who love classic chicken and rice flavors.
- Less Active Pitties: This food isn’t designed for super active dogs.
- Owners Seeking a Trusted Brand: Blue Buffalo is well-regarded for quality ingredients.
03- Merrick Healthy Grains Senior (Best for Senior Akitas)
As Akita’s age, their nutritional needs change. Merrick Healthy Grains Senior promises to support healthy aging. But does it also have what it takes for our sweet senior Pitties? Let’s investigate.
The Good:
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin: Key to healthy joints for your senior dog.
- Quality Protein, Moderate Calories: Maintains muscle mass without promoting unhealthy weight gain.
- Antioxidants for Well-Being: Help combat inflammation and support overall health in senior pups.
The Not-So-Good:
- Contains Grains: Consider a grain-free option if your dog has sensitivities.
- May Not Excite Taste Buds: Some older dogs might find the flavor less intense due to its tailored formula.
- Premium Price Tag: Merrick is known for its quality, which often comes with a higher cost.
Ideal For:
- Owners Prioritizing Quality: Merrick has a reputation for using premium ingredients.
- Dogs Needing a Little Weight Control: Helps your senior dog maintain a healthy weight.
04- Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice (Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food for Akitas)
Keeping a large breed like an Akita or a muscular Pit Bull well-fed can be expensive. Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice claims to offer quality nutrition at a wallet-friendly price. Is it too good to be true?
The Good:
- Real Chicken Focus: Provides essential protein for maintaining muscle mass.
- Wholesome Rice: Perfect for dogs with mild sensitivities
- Added Vitamins & Minerals: Ensures your dog is getting balanced nutrition.
- Unbeatable Price: Significantly more affordable than many premium brands.
The Not-So-Good:
- Some Fillers: Contain ingredients that aren’t as nutrient-dense, like brewer rice.
- May Not Be a Flavor Favorite: The simple formula might not appeal to the pickiest eaters.
- Not for Extreme Athletes: Best for moderately active dogs. Performance dogs might need higher protein.
Ideal For:
- Budget-Conscious Owners: Offers decent nutrition for the price, especially for multi-dog households.
- Healthy Dogs Without Sensitivities: Ideal for healthy dogs who enjoy a classic diet.
- Moderately Active Pups: Good for everyday energy needs, but not for high-performance lifestyles.
05- Now Fresh Grain-Free Large Breed Adult Recipe Dry Dog Food (Best for Adult Akitas)
NOW Fresh Grain-Free Large Breed promises fresh ingredients. But does it justify the premium price, especially for our Pitties? Let’s break it down.
The Good:
- Fresh Meat First: Turkey, salmon, and duck provide high-quality protein for muscle support.
- Large Kibble: Encourages chewing, promotes dental health, and suits big-breed mouths.
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin: Key to healthy joints for your senior dog.
- Grain-Free Goodness: Ideal for dogs with sensitivities or those needing a digestible formula.
The Not-So-Good:
- Costly Choice: High-quality ingredients come with a high price tag.
- Potential for Pickiness: The rich formula might be a bit too intense for some picky dogs.
Ideal For:
- Healthy, Active Large Breeds: Great choice for Akitas and Pit Bulls who need joint support.
- Food-Motivated Pups: This tasty food is perfect for training or picky eaters!
- Owners Seeking Quality: NOW Fresh is known for their fresh, balanced approach to dog food.
06- Instinct Raw Boost Large Breed Puppy Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Best for Akitas Puppies)
Akita puppies need the best to support their rapid growth. Instinct Raw Boost promises a powerful mix of kibble and freeze-dried raw meat. Let’s see if it’s worth the hype.
The Good:
- Protein Powerhouse: Build strong muscles with real chicken and raw bites. Perfect for big dogs!
- Brain Boost: DHA from fish supports healthy brains and eyes for growing puppies.
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin for proactive joint health, especially important for Akitas.
- Grain-Free: Ideal for sensitive pups and those who need a highly digestible diet.
The Not-So-Good:
- Pricey Investment: Premium ingredients and the addition of raw come with a high price tag.
- Potential for Pickiness: The strong flavor might take some getting used to. Start with small amounts mixed into their regular puppy food.
- Careful Portion Control: This food is high in calories, so measure portions carefully.
Ideal For:
- Owners Prioritizing Top Nutrition: Support healthy growth and development in large breed puppies.
- Large Breed Pups Needing Muscle Support: Ideal for supporting those powerful Akita physiques.
- Adventurous Eaters: Your foodie pup will love this flavorful recipe!
07- CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food. (Best for Akitas With Allergies)
Food allergies can be a nightmare for Akitas and Pit Bulls. CANIDAE PURE Limited Ingredient aims to provide relief with a simple, wholesome recipe. Does it work?
The Good:
- Less is More: This limited-ingredient diet is perfect for dogs with sensitivities..
- Gentle on Digestion: Easy for sensitive stomachs to handle, especially during flare-ups
- Quality Emphasis: CANIDAE has a good reputation for using responsible ingredients.
The Not-So-Good:
- Costly for Large Breeds: Feeding an Akita on this specialized food gets pricey.
- May Not Wow Taste Buds: The focus on simplicity might not appeal to picky eaters.
Ideal For:
- Akitas & Pitties with Confirmed Allergies: Perfect if you’ve narrowed down the culprits.
- Pups with Skin & Tummy Woes: Could be a game-changer, even if a specific allergen isn’t identified.
- Owners Prioritizing Premium Ingredients: CANIDAE delivers on limited-ingredient quality.
08- Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat (Best Dog Food for Akitas with Sensitive Skin)
Skin issues can make life miserable for Akitas and Pit Bulls alike. Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat claims to nourish from the inside out. Let’s see if it lives up to the promise.
The Good:
- Omega Fatty Acids for the Win: Fish oil gives your dog a shiny coat and healthy skin.
- Quality Protein: Real salmon supports healthy skin cell development.
- Probiotics & Antioxidants: Added boost for immune function and combating inflammation.
- Budget-Friendly: Offers good value compared to some premium sensitive-skin formulas.
The Not-So-Good:
- Potential for Allergies: Salmon, while great for skin, can be a common allergen for some dogs.
- May Not Be a Miracle Cure: Food alone might not solve complex skin problems – vet guidance is crucial.
Ideal For:
- Dogs with Mild-to-Moderate Itchiness: Supports healthy skin in dogs with mild-to-moderate itchiness.
- Owners Seeking Value: Provides sensitive-skin support at a more accessible price point.
09- Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Canned Dog Food (Best Wet Food)
Wet food offers a tasty alternative for Akitas and Pit Bulls. Whole Earth Farms promises wholesome ingredients and grain-free goodness. Let’s see if it’s a worthy addition to your dog’s diet.
The Good:
- Meat as the Star: High-quality protein satisfies your dog’s carnivorous cravings.
- Hydration Boost: Great for dogs who don’t drink enough, or those needing extra moisture.
- Grain-Free Goodness: Ideal for sensitive stomachs and those needing a digestible formula.
- Variety of Flavors: Keeps mealtime interesting and helps cater to picky palates.
The Not-So-Good:
- Can Get Messy: Especially with bigger, enthusiastic eaters like Akitas and Pit Bulls.
- Costlier Than Kibble: Adding wet food to your dog’s diet increases costs significantly.
Ideal For:
- Akitas and Pitties Needing Extra Hydration: Perfect for dogs who don’t drink enough! This wet food boosts their hydration.
- Owners Seeking Quality: Whole Earth Farms offers good value for its natural ingredients.
10- Purina Pro Plan Adult Dry Dog Food (Best Budget Dog Food)
Purina Pro Plan is a popular choice, but let’s dive in and see if it delivers on both price and nutrition. Can it be a good fit for Akitas and our muscular Pit Bulls?
The Good:
- Real Meat First: Quality protein builds and maintains those powerful muscles.
- Balanced Nutrition: Covers your dog’s essential needs for overall health and well-being.
- Widely Available: Easy to find in most supermarkets, pet stores, and online retailers.
- The Budget Factor: Significantly cheaper than many premium brands.
The Not-So-Good:
- Contains Fillers: Some ingredients provide less nutritional value than whole proteins and veggies.
- Note for picky eaters: Some dogs might find this food a little bland. If your pup is used to bolder flavors, they might need some encouragement.
- Not Ideal for Sensitivities: Common grains and potential by-products might trigger allergies.
Ideal For:
- Budget-Conscious Owners: Offers decent nutrition for the price, especially for multi-dog households.
- Dogs Who Enjoy the Taste: If your pup happily gobbles it up, that’s half the battle won!
11- Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food (Best for Weight Loss)
Those adorable puppy rolls can turn into extra pounds in adult Akitas and Pit Bulls. Nutro Healthy Weight promises to help with healthy weight loss. Does it deliver?
The Good:
- Lower in Calories: Helps your dog feel full without packing on the pounds.
- Fiber for Fullness: Added fiber promotes a feeling of satiety, reducing begging behavior.
- Focus on Large Breeds: Formula caters to the unique needs of bigger dogs.
- Quality Ingredients: Nutro has a reputation for using thoughtfully sourced ingredients.
The Not-So-Good:
- May Not Be a Taste Sensation: Some dogs find weight-loss formulas a bit bland.
- Needs Portion Control: Even with this food, overfeeding leads to weight gain.
- Pricier Than Some: Weight-management formulas typically cost a bit more than standard options.
Ideal For:
- Overweight Akitas and Pitties: Perfect for those needing to shed a few pounds safely.
- Dogs Needing a Little Less Fuel: Less active pups won’t feel deprived on this lighter formula.
- Owners Seeking Premium Choice: Nutro offers quality ingredients for health-conscious dog owners.
12- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Dry Dog (Best for healthy joints)
Large breeds like Akitas and Pit Bulls put extra stress on their joints. Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility promises to support long-term joint health. Let’s see if it lives up to the science-backed name.
The Good:
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin: Key to healthy joints for your senior dog.
- Omegas for the Win: Fish oil helps reduce inflammation and promotes joint comfort.
- Targeted for Large Breeds: Formula caters to their specific nutritional and mobility needs.
- Backed by Research: Hill’s is known for its veterinary-backed approach to nutrition.
The Not-So-Good:
- Pricey Choice: Expect to pay a premium for Hill’s science-focused formulas.
- May Not Be a Taste Favorite: Can have a more “clinical” flavor less exciting for some pups.
- Not a Miracle Fix: Severe joint problems may still require additional vet intervention.
Ideal For:
- Joint Support: Glucosamine and chondroitin: Key to healthy joints for your senior dog.
- Large Breeds Prone to Trouble: Great if your dog has a breed predisposition to hip or joint problems.
- Owners Trusting Science: Hill’s reputation for research appeals to those wanting evidence-backed nutrition.
Buying guide
Best food for Japanese Akita: Akitas need a diet designed for their specific needs.
- High Protein: Akitas need lots of protein, so choose a food with real meat as the main ingredient.
- Healthy Fats: Flaxseeds and fish oil: The secret to a healthy coat and joints for your Akita!
- Carbohydrates and Fiber: Oats and sweet potatoes are good for your Akita’s tummy. Prebiotic fiber keeps their gut healthy.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Calcium and potassium are important for strong bones and health.
- Ingredients to Avoid: Choose food without Artificial additives, fillers, soy, or wheat.
Feeding Guidelines:
- Puppies: Large-breed puppy formulas with balanced calcium-phosphorus ratios support healthy bone development.
- Adults: Protein-rich diets complemented by moderate-fat content sustain adult Akita vitality.
- Seniors: Senior-specific formulations cater to the changing needs of aging Akitas.
Veterinary Guidance:
Your vet knows your Akita best! Your vet is the best person to help you choose the right food for your Akita. Always follow Akita dog diet.
They know your dog’s health, allergies, and specific needs. If you have any questions about your Akita’s diet, always ask your vet for advice!
FAQs:
Feeding requirements vary based on age, weight, activity level, and health status. Consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.
Both dry and wet food options can be suitable for Akitas. Consider your dog’s preferences, dental health, and any dietary sensitivities.
Akitas can be sensitive to certain ingredients like soy, wheat, and artificial additives. Avoiding these common allergens can help prevent adverse reactions.
- Akitas with food allergies might get.
- Itchy skin and frequent scratching.
- Skin problems like rashes or redness.
- Tummy troubles (diarrhea, vomiting).
- Recurring ear infections.
Give your Akita the right amount of food, regular exercise, and a healthy diet to keep them at a good weight. Don’t overfeed your Akita. Check their body shape regularly.
While some human foods are safe for dogs in moderation, others can be harmful or toxic. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on safe and appropriate treats for your Akita.
Grain-free food can be great for your Akita, especially if they’re sensitive to grains. Always choose a balanced and healthy diet.
Some Akita owners choose to feed raw food diets, but it’s essential to do so safely. Consult with a veterinary nutritionist.
If your Akita is doing well on their food, you don’t need to change it. But, if you want to switch, do it slowly over a week or so. This will help their tummy adjust.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Can support healthy joints and skin.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: May help protect joint health, especially in older Akitas.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right food might take a little effort, but it’s one of the best things you can do for your Akita! Remember:
- Look for high-quality protein and healthy fats.
- Pay attention to changes in their energy, coat, or digestion if you switch foods.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment to find what your Akita loves and thrives on.
- Talk to your vet to get personalized recommendations.
A good diet is a cornerstone of your Akita’s health and happiness. With a little understanding and the right food, you can watch them shine for years to come!
