Akitas originated in Japan and are among the most ancient of working dog breeds. Pronounced a-KEE-ta in the west (although correct pronunciation in Japan stresses the first syllable, AH-kee-ta), Akitas are celebrated as loyal, courageous and intelligent dogs.
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Akitas are affectionate and expressive animals and will often greet their owners with lots of “wiggling” and happy grunting noises. (They will frequently vocalize, but are not excessive barkers). Although they love human companionship, they also thrive as outside dogs, but still require vigorous daily exercise to keep boredom and destructive tendencies at bay.
Known as the “Silent Hunter” in Japan, the Akita has strong guarding instincts and will sound the alarm if necessary. This breed has a reputation for sometimes being aggressive towards strangers, smaller animals and other dogs, so Akitas must be well-socialized at a young age and are happiest living in homes where they are “top dog” (unless they have been raised with other pets since puppyhood). Akitas are kid-compatible, but because of their size and spunk should always be supervised around small children. These dogs also gravitate towards “pack-leader status,” so obedience training is necessary to ensure a harmonious household.
The Akita has webbed, cat-like feet, which makes it a fine swimmer and agile in snow. Its double coat has a harsh, waterproof outer coat insulated with a thick, soft underlayer. These dogs will frequently groom themselves like a cat, but because of their impressive shedding capabilities, giving them an added daily brushing is always a good idea.
The Akita is native to the island of Honshu in the region of Akita, Japan and is considered the national dog of Japan. It is also one of seven breeds designated as a natural monument. 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 newborn children to symbolize health. Interestingly, the first Akita was brought to the United States by Helen Keller in 1937. Later, American servicemen brought these dogs home to their families after World War II.
Much debate occurs among Akita fanciers whether there are (or should be) two breeds of Akita. Currently the AKC and CKC consider American and Japanese Akitas to be two types of the same breed and permit free breeding between the two. The FCI and kennel clubs in most other nations consider Japanese and American Akitas to be separate breeds.
Akitas are hearty animals but can be prone to hip dysplasia, thyroid problems and immune diseases. In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (32 percent), heart problems (14 percent), and bloat and torsion (14 percent).
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