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History
Today, the Akita is considered the national dog of Japan and is designated as a Natural Monument. The breed has had many uses, first as an Imperial guard dog, then as a fighting dog, hunter of deer and bear, for sledding, and for police, army and guard work. The Akita has keen hunting abilities and can even hunt in deep snow. He has a soft mouth, so he is suitable for waterfowl retrieval. In Japan, small statues of the Akita are often sent to ill people to express a wish for their speedy recovery, and to parents of a newborn child to symbolize health. The first Akita was brought to the United States by Helen Keller. American servicemen also brought Akitas to the US after World War II.
Description
A powerful and solid dog, strong and muscular with a flat, heavy head and strong, short muzzle. The Akita is slightly longer than he is tall with a broad, deep chest and level back. The head is broad and shaped like a blunt triangle. The stop is well-defined with a shallow groove going up the center of the forehead. The small, erect ears are carried forward and in line with the neck. The small, triangular eyes are dark brown. The nose is generally black (brown is permitted on white Akitas, but black is preferred) and the lips are black though the tongue is pink. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite, though a level bite is accepted. The tail is carried high and curled over the back. The Akita has webbed cat-like feet and is a fine swimmer. The double coat is composed of a harsh stand-off outer coat insulated with a thick, soft undercoat. All coat colors are allowed. Bright, clear colors are preferred.
Talents
Hunting, tracking, watchdog, guarding, police work, military work, and sledding.
Personality
Docile, but sometimes impetuous. Careful, very affectionate with family, intelligent, and courageous. Fearless. Very willful—needs firm training as a puppy. First class guard—Japanese mothers would often leave their children in the family Akita's care. Extremely faithful. Thrives on companionship.
Behavior
Children: Good only when raised with children from puppyhood.
Friendliness: Reserved with strangers.
Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
Independence: Not particularly dependent or independent.
Dominance: High.
Other Pets: Not generally trustworthy with other pets.
Combativeness: Very dog-aggressive.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
Very aggressive to other dogs and animals and should therefore never be allowed to run off lead around other animals. Should definitely be supervised with other household pets and children. Although the breed may tolerate children from his own family, he may not accept other children. If teased, Akitas may bite. Children must be trained to treat these dogs with kindness. Can be very food-possessive, and willful. Capable of ferocity, but with firm training, can make a fine pet. Obedience training requires patience, as these dogs tend to get bored quickly. Should not be kept apart from the family. Vocalizes with many interesting sounds, but not an excessive barker. Beware of hip dysplasia. Buy only from OFA certified stock.
Grooming
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Fluffy coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: A good jogging companion.
Indoors: Moderately active indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
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