Most health problems manifest by the age of two. Any dog over two - and healthy - is more likely to stay that way. Our members who have lost their Akitas at an early age say that “they wish they could have known that a dreaded disease was going to strike their puppy”. But they had no way of knowing that information. Only time would tell.

The cost of adoption is a mere fraction of that for a new puppy.
With the additional costs of vet and food bills, many people find the rising cost of purchasing a puppy is just not in the budget. While they feel confident that they can afford the upkeep of the dog, they feel that a large cash output upon purchase is just too difficult.

Many adopted Akitas are already housetrained and have some obedience training.
One of our members who adopted an Akita reported incredible results in obedience class. Upon investigation, it was revealed that this Akita already had passed several obedience classes. The adoptive home had a ready-made obedience dog who may be soon entered into competitive obedience. If you don’t have the time or energy for socializing, training and working with a puppy, consider an older “ready-made” companion.

Health and Temperament checks have been conducted.
DVAR and any other reputable rescue group will have a complete health check on each incoming Akitas. Mostly, rescuers report that the main health problem they encounter is a thyroid dysfunction which is a simple pill twice a day for effective life-long relief. The other advantage to the screening is in the area of temperament. Because the dog is usually in the rescue shelter for a few weeks or longer, testing and observation in different situations assure adopters that the dog will be matched to their individual situation.

Return policy.
Most rescue groups will take the dog back at any time. They do not want the animal to end up in a public shelter or worse. These groups all offer support as problems arise during the Akita’s life. This network of support, advice and referrals is very important in a successful adoption. The confidence of knowing that their is help available has kept many Akitas from being euthanized.