Akita

Akita Dog Breed Information



Breed Name:	Akita

Country of Origin:	Japan

Average Lifespan:	11 - 15 years

Size:	Large (90 –110 lbs, 23–27 inches)

Breed Classification:	Working

Coat:	Double coated with a straight, course outer coat and a soft undercoat Colour may be fawn, red, brindle or pure white Requires daily grooming, or extremely thorough weekly grooming Tends to be a heavy shedder, especially during summer months

Characteristics:	Alert and composed Courageous and dignified Faithful to loved ones, however often aggressive toward other dogs and strangers (should be well socialized from a young age) Aloof

Breed Standards:	Akitas are strong, muscular and heavy boned. They have a sturdy frame and neck, with a triangular shaped head that is flat on top. The ears are naturally erect and also triangular. The chest and shoulders are wide and sturdy, while the back is flat. The breed is also very active and requires a lot of outdoor exercise. It is not recommended to anyone with limited experience with dogs.

History:	The Akita is an ancient breed that originated, and was named after Akita Prefecture in Japan. Carvings of the breed’s image have been found on the walls of ancient Japanese tombs. It has undergone much crossbreeding, and in the 1920’s there were as little as 20 purebred Akitas left in the world. The Akita is a pack dog, and must constantly be socialized to remain contented. Its pack instinct may also lead it to be dominant over other dogs and extremely protective of its “pack” or owners. The breed has been a favourite among Japanese emperors throughout history, and due to its protective instincts, was often the sole babysitter of children. Stories of the loyalty and devotion of the breed intrigued Helen Keller when she visited Japan, and subsequently one was given to her as a gift, and so she brought the first Akita to North America in the 1930’s. Akitas have also been used as hunting dogs, tracking deer and other animals throughout mountainous regions. The double coat keeps the dog waterproof and warm during Northern Japan’s harsh winters.

Fun Facts:	The famous “Hachiko the Dog” statue in Japan, is in memory of a faithful Akita who met his master at the train station after work, the same time each day. For nearly ten years after his master’s death, Hachiko continued to wait at the train station, until the dog himself passed away.

Recommendations:	Large, leather dog collars work great on large breeds like the Akita. Try the strong Safari Collar for a great fit.