There are two popular types of Akita breeds today. One is the American Akita brought to the United States after WWII by GI’s who have grown to love them. They are bigger in size due to cross breeding and they have a variety of colors. The more traditional type is the Japanese Akita. Well preserved and maintained to show the characteristics of the original Akitas centuries ago.

The Japanese Akita came from the Matagi dog, one of the oldest of Japan’s native dogs. After centuries of selective breeding from the Matagi dogs in the upper regions of Honshu in Akita prefecture the Japanese Akita was born. They became the dog of choice for aristocracy and the highest commanding officers of Japan’s forces. No one but nobility and shoguns possessed this marvelous dog. They were extremely skilled hunters with their keen sense of sight, smell and hearing. They were unsurpassable. They tracked large preys like elk, antelopes, boars and even large Yezo bears and rallied them until hunters arrived. They were moved rapidly, alert and audacious in the face of large animals. This made them best companions for hunting.

Through the centuries, the Japanese Akita maintained the physical characteristics that they had. Their strict breeding and compliance to how the original Japanese Akita looked like allowed this breed to exhibit the same features as their ancestors.

• The breed stood proud at 60 – 70 cm
• The females weight ranges from 70 – 100 lbs
• Males would weigh in from 75 – 180 lbs
• They come in 5 colors: red, fawn, sesame, brindle and pure white
• They would have whitish hair on the sides of the muzzle, on the cheeks, neck, body and tail
• Black masks are not allowed for Akita
• Bear-like appearance
• The tails curls over their back
• They have cat-like feet which are webbed
• Solid muscular body
• Slightly longer than tall
• They have a double coat. The outer coat is harsh and straight while the inner is a soft dense coat.

The loyalty and love they show to their masters are heart-warming. A popular Akita story in Japan tells a tale about a dog who escorted his master everyday to the train station and back. His name was Hachi-ko. For 18 months he did that with his master but on sad day his master suffered a fatal stroke at work. Hachi-ko, as he did everyday, waited at the train station for the 4 o’clock train to arrive. His master never came back. He was cared for his master’s relatives but for 9 years he continued his walk to and from the train station still waiting for his master until his death.

This story touched the hearts of millions around the world. Shortly after, a bronze statue was made to honor Hachi-Ko. It stands tall, till this day, at the Shibuya Train Station in Tokyo. And whenever a family member is sick it is tradition to give them a small bronze statue of the Akita. No wonder that the Akita was declared the Japanese National Monument and a national treasure.

When considering a potential member for a family, the most popular choice would have to be a dog. But what kind of dog in particular, one may ask? Well, for anyone who desires a loyal, not-too-common dog that will perform its role as family pet beautifully, he or she should consider getting an Akita dog as pet of the house. Akitas are underrated, and not very popular because of their unique appearances as compared to more common dogs.

However, having originated from the northern regions of Japan, the Akita became so popular that it was eventually brought to the United States. Since then, the breed has enjoyed a certain degree of popularity, and is renowned for its excellence.

Why choose an Akita Dog over other dogs?

Before anything else, you must first know what exactly an Akitas looks like. It is, by no means, ugly, and in fact is a dog that characterizes nobility and strength. They come in all sorts of colors, including brindle, pinto or white, and, as adults, weigh a little more than a hundred pounds. Having the Akita dog as pet canine has its own very special rewards.

First of all, its coat is beautiful and waterproof. Coats are only shed twice a year, and all year round, it looks fluff and lovable. An Akita dog as pet member of the family will surely attract a lot of attention from guests and friends. They do not grow to be too large, so they will not appear imposing or scary. They are quite muscular, but very dignified, which is why they were owned by aristocrats in Japan. An Akita dog as pet guard dog, therapy dog or loyal companion in general is very possible.

Akitas are very intelligent and prize human companionship above all. Their loyalty is treasured, which is why they are sometimes wary of strangers. Extremely protective, they unfortunately do not take well to other pets. However, they will protect children they know well and respect all family members.

They can be good guard dogs, and only bark when absolutely necessary. Akitas require a lot of attention or else they won’t be satisfied.

Another fun aspect of owning an Akita is that it can be brushed and groomed everyday. Bathing is done scarcely and only when necessary. Making an Akita look its best is an activity that family members, young and old, will enjoy immensely. Akitas also require socialization and obedience training in order for them not to be rowdy. Because of their intelligence and slight neurotic, Akitas can be housetrained very easily.

Lastly, an Akita dog as pet number one of the family is very possible. They do not have to be walked that often but are very active. A bored Akita, however, is a destructive Akita, which is why it is best to keep them in a big home where they can play with people. You will not regret having an Akita because of all the joy and excitement it will bring to your family.

Surely, Akitas would be a good home pets for your family!