Akita #1 Breed in History
The Akita breed has some amazing history. Before the Akita had an “official” breed name, they were referred to as “snow country dogs.” The Akita breed originated from the snowy, rural, mountainous region of Japan. Originally the Akita’s job was to hunt, guard, and herd. This swift, powerful dog was unsurpassed in his ability to track large game. Those included deer, elk and black bear.
The History of the Akita to the Japanese People
Japanese parents often receive a small statue of an Akita when their child is born. The Akita symbolizes protection, health, happiness, and long life. At one time, Akita ownership was restricted to the Imperial Family and the ruling aristocracy. Caring and feeding of the Akita were detailed in elaborate ceremonies for the wealthy. Special leashes were used to denote the Akita’s rank and the standing of his owner. Many families would give gifts of the Akita statue during an illness to help strengthen and quicken the recovery. The Akita history dates back to the earliest centuries in Japan culture.
Akita’s Are Famous
Famous author and political activist, Helen Keller, is credited with bringing the first Akita breed into the United States in 1937. She was said to have been inspired by the legendary Hachiko. He was the loyal dog who became world famous for waiting nine years at a train station. He had hoped his dead owner would return one day. Keller found the dogs to be “gentle, companionable, and trusty.
American Akita vs Japanese Akita
Did you know there are two difference varieties of the Akita breed? Thus we have the ongoing question of, “What’s the difference between the American Akita vs Japanese Akita?” Even though these are both Akitas, they’re bloodlines are so independent that in many countries they’re considered two totally different breeds.
Japanese Akita dogs were fierce hunting and fighting dogs mostly used by the wealthiest. The Akita is the beloved dog of Japan and has many traditional and ceremonial meanings to the people, even today. But in the 18th century, their numbers began to decrease rapidly and were in danger of extinction. By the end of World War 2, a concious effort was taking place to restore the population of this breed. The Japanese Akita Inu reaches 23-25 inches tall and weighs in at 70-120 pounds. They have a more fox-like look to them which is a distinct feature. Normally, the Japanese Akita Inu has no mask on its face.
The American Akita was first brought to the United States by Helen Keller in 1937. After World War 2, many soldiers also loved the features of the Akita breed and brought them back to America as well. The American Akita is somewhat larger and be 26 inches tall and weighs in at 70-130 pounds. These Akita dogs have a blockier head and a more bear-like appearance. The American Akita always has a mask on it’s face.
About Akitas & Exercise
Surprisingly, the Akita is not an active breed. Because of this, Akita exercise is only moderate and relatively easy. A brisk walk or jog around the neighborhood at least once a day will meet the Akita’s needs. The Akita breed also loves to play in the yard exploring the sights, sounds and smells. You should be aware, however, that yards should be kept very secure. The Akita dog breed will not respond well to strangers entering. They are also quite the escape artists, so ensure your Akita cannot get out. It’s very important that when playing with your dog outdoors, you do so in a securely fenced-in area.
When walking or jogging, your Akita should also always be on a leash. Socializing your Akita is vital, as this will ensure they become balanced adults. For more information about the Akita breed, there’s tons of information out there since they’re one of the oldest breeds recorded.
Is an Akita a Good Family Dog?
The Akita was never bred to live or work in groups, rather to be alone or in a pair. The Akita is happy to be an only dog and can be aggressive toward other dogs not in his family group. Properly socialized, an Akita can learn to tolerate other animals.
The Akita breed is loyal and affectionate toward his family and friends. Also, he’s quite territorial about his home and aloof with strangers. They are excellent guard dogs and will only bark when there is truly something amiss. He has extreme strength and endurance. Thus, he needs dedicated training to help him properly channel energy.
Being an intelligent breed, however, the Akita can easily become bored with training. The Akita is a large, hardy breed, that has been bred for centuries as a companion in the home. The loyalty and devotion they display is well loved among Akita owners.
Akita Breed Temperament
The Akita can, however, have aggressive tendencies. Usually, the aggression is toward other dogs. They are not typically aggressive toward people. For instance, they have highly developed protection instincts. Care should be taken when unfamiliar people enter your home. This validates the importance of early training for Akita puppies, to avoid future problems. As for children in the home, the Akita will be as loyal toward them as any family member. Of course, young children in general, should never be left alone with any large dogs.
Besides their extreme loyalty, the Akita likes to keep very clean, and is easily housebroken. These two characteristics make them desirable to have in the home. Some have described the Akita breed as being almost “cat-like,” as they are so clean and odorless.
Akita Grooming
As dog breeds go, Akita’s are clean and tend to have very little odor. They also don’t require a lot of grooming despite having a thick and luxurious double coat.
They shed minimally throughout most of the year but do have at least two ‘blowouts’ a year. A ‘blow out’ will involve your Akita shedding very profusely. Its hair will come out in clumps all over your house. However, more regular Akita grooming and a good brushing regime will help keep the shedding under control.
Akita Breed Coat Colors
Akita’s come in many colors. This includes any colors of white; brindle; or pinto. Colors are rich, brilliant and clear. Markings are well balanced, with or without mask or blaze. White Akita’s have no mask. Pinto has a white background with large, evenly placed patches covering head. It also covers more than one-third of body. Undercoats may be a different color from outer coat. There’s many colors from the white Akita to the black Akita and everything inbetween.
Looking for an Akita Puppy?
If you are serious about acquiring one of these Akita puppies, we specialize in this beautiful breed! First, fill out our Akita Breed Puppy Application to determine that this breed is a good fit for you. The next step is to start the Process to begin your journey to bring home one of your own little fur-babies. We walk you through every step and help you get everything all ready!
