Do Akitas Bark a Lot? Training & FAQs

Akitas usually do not bark a lot unless there is a clear reason for them to do so. They are very loyal and a bit territorial, though, so they will often bark when a stranger appears outside. They are not prone to barking when their owner comes home or when excited, though.

These canines are known as “silent hunters” as they were bred to hunt large game without barking at them. This trait carries over into our modern world, with Akitas rarely barking unless they feel threatened.

They do make plenty of other sounds, though—just because they don’t bark constantly doesn’t mean that they’re completely silent. You can expect an Akita to whine, growl, and yelp just like any other dog.

How Do I Train My Akita to Bark Less?

Of course, not all Akitas got the memo that they aren’t supposed to bark that much. Akitas are individuals and some are more prone to barking than others. Luckily, there is a lot you can do to limit the amount of barking your Akita does.

Exercise

Firstly, you want to make sure your Akita is getting enough exercise. Akitas that aren’t exercised properly may feel restless and hyperactive, which can lead to barking. An Akita that hasn’t been exercised may just be looking for something to do, which may involve barking.

A tired Akita is much less likely to bark excessively. Therefore, you may need to increase your dog’s exercise.

Socialization

Akitas must be exposed to many different people, places, and things to prevent fear or aggression. If your Akita is presented with something new and scary, they may bark at it. This includes people and dogs if they weren’t previously exposed to many unknown people and pets.

Therefore, starting at a young age, you should introduce your Akitas to a range of different stimuli. Akitas are territorial, so this socialization is vital if you want them to be calm.

Mental Stimulation

On top of exercise, your Akita needs to be mentally stimulated, too. You should invest in puzzle toys and take long, meandering walks to combat boredom. Training can also be helpful, as it gives your dog a chance to use their mind.

Similarly to not getting enough exercise, if your dog isn’t getting enough mental stimulation, they may become bored and start looking for something to do.

Reduce Triggers

If you can, reducing your Akitas exposure to triggers can help prevent barking. This isn’t a long-term fix, though. You’ll need to implement some of the other ideas in this article to prevent barking long-term. However, closing the blinds is an easy way to keep your dog from barking at the neighbors.

When you aren’t home, your dog may bark more excessively, as they may feel less secure. Crate training can be extremely helpful in this case, as it limits triggers.

Positive Reinforcement

Whenever your dog doesn’t bark at something, you should praise them and give them a treat or two. Ignore or redirect the dog when they bark, but do not reward them or try to distract them with treats. This only leads to them barking more.

How To Teach the Quiet Command

You can also teach your dog the “quiet” command. This command can help reduce the amount of barking in most situations, assuming your dog obeys it. There are several ways you can do this. The first involves teaching the “speak” command.

Teach the Speak Command

To teach the speak command, you need to make your dog bark. You probably know what makes your dog bark. Use whatever trigger you want to elicit a bark, say “speak,” and then reward your dog with a treat.

Repeat this until your dog learns how to speak on command.

Teach the Quiet Command

Now, you can teach the quiet command. First, ask your dog to speak. As soon as he’s done with the bark, say “quiet” and give your dog a treat. This helps your dog associate ceasing to bark with the new command.

You can also catch your dog barking in a natural setting and then reward them when they stop barking. Repeat until your dog will stop barking on cue—at least some of the time.

Increase Difficulty

Now that your dog knows the quiet command, it’s time to increase the difficulty and cut out treats. Start by giving your dog a treat only every other time they follow the command correctly. Then, slowly increase the time between treats from there until you aren’t using them at all.

Next, add distractions, different people, noises, and change locations. Dogs need lots of practice in different areas to learn the command completely. Otherwise, they may only listen during training. Any time you increase the distractions or change locations, bring the treats back out. Once your dog is listening again, you can slowly phase the treats out.

Repeat this process in several different locations with several different people until your dog listens to the quiet command no matter where you are or what they’re barking at.

How Often Should I Practice with My Akita?

You’ll need to practice not barking with your Akita regularly. Akitas are smart and independent dogs, so they don’t always listen to commands. This isn’t necessarily something you can completely train out of them. However, their stubbornness does get better as you train them.

Aim for 10 to 15 minutes of training once a day. Vary the number of commands and activities you do with your dog. Don’t just do the quiet command, for instance. If you do, the dog may start to guess what you’re saying instead of actually listening, which doesn’t help in the real world.

You should also use the command in everyday life as soon as your dog understands what it means. This helps the dog expand the situations they’ll listen in and helps get some extra practice in. Once your dog knows the command well, these real-world situations can function as your primary training.

Final Thoughts

Akitas are extremely quiet dogs. They don’t bark a lot, though they do make other noises. Most Akitas only bark when they feel threatened, usually by strangers or unfamiliar animals. They are territorial, so most of their barking involves something they consider an “intruder.”

Still, Akitas are much quieter than other breeds. They’re unlikely to bark when excited or hyper, for instance. If you want a quieter dog, they may be what you’re looking for.

Of course, every dog is an individual and some Akitas will bark more than others. Luckily, you can teach your Akita the “quiet” command, which can help you control their barking.

Featured Image Credit: Kseniya Resphoto, Shutterstock