United States of America
Akita dog breed - photos and description
Photos of the breed
Main characteristics of the breed
| Care: | Need a little care |
| Size: | Large |
| Molt: | Shed moderately |
| Need for activity: | Need vigorous daily exercise |
| Domination: | Highestlevel |
| Tolerance of loneliness: | They really need people |
| Type of wool: | Fluffy |
| Temperament: | Phlegmatic |
| Friendly to strangers: | May show aggression |
| Intellect: | Working intelligence |
| Learnability: | A bit difficult to learn |
| Specialization: | Hunting, Companions, Service |
| Tendency to bark: | Almost don't bark, quiet ones |
The Akita is a large, powerful, brave dog breed with an intimidating and noble presence. They originated from feudal Japan, where they guarded nobility and royalty. The Akita breed is a beloved working dog breed that the Japanese government designated in 1930 as a “natural monument.” The Akita was initially used as a hunting and fighting dog and is now used for police and guard work while also suitable for family pets.
The first Akita to arrive on American soil was brought to the United States by Helen Keller in the mid-1930s. Keller was gifted an Akita puppy while touring Japan. In the 1940s, American GIs brought Akita Inu dogs home upon their return after the occupation of Japan.
Japanese Akitas were the first specimens of this Spitz breed to come to the US. Their arrival gave rise to a separate mix named the American Akita. Akitas are confident, intelligent, outgoing and very protective. They are agile and possess a delightful, playful streak that endears them to their families. They are happiest in one-dog households because they do not tolerate other dogs. They are large dogs standing between 24 and 28 inches high and weighing up to 130 pounds.
Akitas are reasonably healthy and need nutritious diets to live up to at least 14 years or longer.