Akita Inu

The Akita Inu is a large breed of dog originally from Japan. These dogs are named for Akita region of Japan, where they are thought to have originated. They are sometimes referred to as Akita-ken based on the Chinese influenced interpretation of the Japanese script. These dogs are distinct from American Akita dogs and are not commonly found in many countries around the world.

These dogs are about 60-66 cm (24-26 inches) in height and can weight between 30-54 kg (70-119 pounds). They are only found in five common colors, namely fawn, red, brindle, sesame and pure white. All dogs except those with white coats must have white hairs on the sides of the muzzle, neck, chest, body, cheeks and tail. Black hairs on the muzzle are only acceptable in American Inus and not permitted in the Japanese variety. American Akita dogs can be of various colors. In the United States original Japanese Akitas have been bred with the heavier American Akitas. This allows more color diversity in the American variety.

These dogs are well known for their loyalty. They are also very intelligent and for the very same reason, may be easily bored. If these dogs are left idle, they might become destructive. Plenty of play and exercise can keep these dogs happy even in apartments. Proper socialization as puppies will make them friendly adults. They love to be around humans but can be left on their own too, provided that they are taken for regular walks to stop them from destroying the garden or the yard. Akitas can become very excited to see their owners and may make grunting noises.

These dogs are also known to be aggressive to strangers on occasion, and may chase small animals and other pets.

The average Akita lives for about 10 years. Most commonly known causes of death were cancer, gastrointestinal problems and cardiac disorders. These dogs have a double coat. The undercoat is dense and straight and the outer coat thick and waterproof. This also equips them for fierce winters in northern Japan. Due to their thick coats, these dogs need daily grooming. They also shed heavily during warmer months.

The ancestor of the Akita is believed to be the Matagi dog. Akitas of today were created primarily from these dogs that were found in northern Honshu. The Matagi was used to hunt big game like elk, boar and antelope. These dogs would hold the game down until the human hunters would arrive to kill them. Recently, DNA tests have been conducted to prove that Akitas are among the most ancient of dog breeds. The Japanese and American varieties of Akita were not distinguished until the 20th century. From that time, Japanese Akitas began to be considered part of Japan’s cultural and artistic heritage, while the heavier and bigger American version was more commercial. Akitas have many references in popular culture. Many manga titles feature Akitas as the main character. Helen Keller owned two Akitas and it is often supposed that she was the one to introduce the breed into America.