About the Akita Breed

The Akita has its wolf-spitz roots in the country of Japan. The Akitas’ remote ancestors became identifiable by about 500 BC and you can trace the Akita-Inu as a distinct type of canine through over 300 years of written records. In the 1100’s the Akita was bred with a Mastiff line specifically for dog fighting. This unsavory behavior continued for 800 years until dog fighting finally became illegal. The Akita’s development is associated the Akita Prefecture in the northern part of Japan. More specifically, the breed is closely connected to a particular town called Odate City, also known as “dog city”. The remoteness of this area led to a several hundred year isolation and development of the Akita until the 14th century. With the introduction of Christianity in the 15th century came the influence and cross-breeding of “European” breeds. With the “new” blood lines infused in, the Akita became what it is today.

Some Akitas were trained to hunt and take down bears. A select few were chosen to guard the emperor’s palace. Very early in their history, Akitas were assigned as childcare providers while mom and dad went to work in the fields.

Helen Keller was so intrigued with the breed during a visit in 1937 she was offered an Akita of her very own. Kamikaze was his name and she was smitten. She owned several more Akitas during the balance of her life. It was believed that she was the first American to have an Akita on US soil.

During World War II the Akita as a breed was almost wiped out as there were only 16 known living specimens. Due to the hardships of war, the Akita was used as a soldier, clothing source and also an occasional meal. If not for a small handful of dedicated dog lovers, the Akita would not be on earth to bless your life today. If you get a chance to read “Dog Man” it documents the great struggle to save the breed from extinction. American servicemen also feel in love with the Akita and brought a handful home with them after the war.

In the overall process of evolutionary development, the Akita, as a recognized breed, is a new kid on the block. AKC first recognized the Akita in 1955 and was placed into the Miscellaneous Class. Now the Akita is in the working class. In 1959 The Akita Club of America was formed. Akita owners are a very proud bunch and promote the breed with utmost fervor.

One of the most famous Akitas was one by the name of Hachiko. He escorted his owner to the Shibuya train station every morning and met him at the train station at the same time every night. One day Hachiko’s owner suffered a fatal heart attack at work. For the next 10 years Hachiko continued to travel to and from the train station looking for his master. This story of absolute loyalty is both warming and heart wrenching.

The Akita comes in a variety of colors and patterns such as pinto, brindle, solid white, fawn, red, as well as a combination of the afore mentioned. The original Japanese Akita, while equally as colorful, has a slighter build and weighs less that the Americanized Akita. The American Akita was bred for size and stature.

The Akita is a very adaptable, low maintenance breed. Their double layer coat allows them to thrive in almost any climate. Shedding, or ‘blowing coat’ happens twice a year prompting the need for extra brushing and a bath when necessary.

They’re a very loyal, family oriented breed that has the ability to become anything you want them to be. If you want a protector, a companion, a couch potato, a worker, or just a live-in comedian, the Akita will fill your need. Their success as a family addition is due to the fact that they are protective without being aggressive. Because of their intelligence, more Akitas are being found in the service industry as assistance and therapy dogs.

Please note; when adding an Akita to your family, you have the responsibility of a lifetime commitment and financial obligation for their welfare. Akitas should be a permanent family member and will need patience, the proper training, and lots of love and attention. A re-homed Akita does suffer and can feel anxiety and grief, so please make the commitment to your Akita one for a lifetime. Dogs are truly man’s best friend—their unconditional love and non-judgmental nature makes them the greatest of companions. Please do not purchase an Akita from us unless you plan on being in this relationship for the life of your dog. He will gladly give his life for you.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Please do as much research and fact finding as you can. All you have to do is find an Akita family and they will share stories and anecdotes until the fire dies. We are a special group of people and look forward to beginning, continuing, or enhancing your Akita appetite. Canis Familiaris.