The Akita is dignified, loyal and a one-family dog. Boarding goes best when the space is clearly his.
A run of his own
At 70 to 130 pounds, an Akita belongs in Business Class (5x6 ft, $59 a night), which is the kennel for one dog who prefers not to share. Larger males may be happier in First Class at $72. The AKC says Akitas thrive on human companionship and are protective of those they love.
Coat and baths
The AKC calls the coat dense and double, and lists seasonal shedding with a heavy blow twice a year. On the bath chart effective January 1, 2024, the double coated column is $75 at 76 to 100 pounds and $85 over 100. Please ask to confirm. A bath works best for a dog who is shedding his undercoat.
Quiet, fastidious and protective
The AKC describes Akitas as quiet, fastidious dogs, wary of strangers and best when well socialized with people and other dogs from the start. For a stay, the plan is simple: book a kennel for your Akita alone, give staff any handling notes on the boarding agreement, and keep your own food routine in cups. Your Akita can see the neighbors through the fence while keeping his own space.
Heat, cold and the run
A double coat meant for Japanese winters is a lot to wear in Dixon in July. Plan on the indoor, air-conditioned side for the hottest part of the day. In winter the heated run suits the breed better.
What to tell the front desk
A one-family dog does best when staff know the details. Put the handling notes on the boarding agreement, such as how your Akita meets strangers, whether he is fed alone and what a good hand-off looks like. Tours run daily at 9 to 11 AM and 2 to 4 PM, so you can see the runs before you book.
Fences, neighbors and sharing
The runs let dogs see neighbors through the fence while each keeps its own space. If your Akita lives with another dog, sharing a Business Class or First Class run is possible with the second at a lower rate. If you are unsure, book separate kennels for the first stay, and move to sharing later. A request for either is made online and confirmed by the kennel.