The Akita, also known as the Akita Inu, the Japanese Akita, the Japanese Deerhound, the Shishi Inu and the Nippon Inu, was recognized as part of Japan’s national heritage in 1931 and is treated as a national monument. Well-bred Akitas are affectionate with friends and family members and thrive on human companionship. They are somewhat reserved with strangers and can be extremely defensive and protective of their family if it is threatened. Akitas are known to be fearless, brave, intelligent and adaptable if well socialized. This breed is known for being aggressive towards other dogs. Helen Keller reportedly brought one of the first Akitas into the United States in 1937. The Akita is a member of the Working Group and was admitted into the American Kennel Club in 1972.
Akitas are perhaps most notable for looking like a fluffy bear, with a thick double coat, stocky legs and characteristic masked facial markings. The typical male Akita averages 26 to 28 inches at the withers and weighs between 100 and 130 pounds. Females range between 24 and 26 inches in height and weigh from 70 to 100 pounds. The Akita’s dense coat requires regular grooming and comes in a variety of colors.
The Akita originated in northern Japan many centuries ago, probably descending from northern spitz-type dogs. Akita is a rugged, mountainous area at the north end of the main island of Honshu. The Akita was known there as the matagi or the matagiinu, meaning the “esteemed hunter.” It was used to hunt deer, black bear and wild boar. According to an American Kennel Club publication: “The Akita’s hunting abilities include great strength, keen eye and nose,
The Akita dog breed was originally bred to guard Japanese royalty. Strong and imposing figures, their appearance alone can act as a deterrent to people with ill intent. Affectionate and loving with their families, Akitas can be a rewarding companion, but they have a strong will and a complex personality that can make them a challenge to train. While they do not bark much and are a clean housemate, they can be dominant and strong
The AKC describes the Akita as, “strong, powerful, alert,” and “dignified.” Akitas are broad, muscular dogs with large triangular heads. They have a pointed, short muzzle and pointed ears. They are longer than they are tall, are broad-chested, and boast thick, muscular necks. Their coats are full and plush and come in a variety of colors and patterns, all of which are acceptable to AKC standard, though the brighter the color, the better. Akitas have
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