Country of Origin: Japan
Life Span: 10 - 12 years
Bred For: Big game hunting, dog fighting and guard dog
Coat: Harsh and straight, medium length
Color: White, pinto or brindle
Height: Male: 25-28" Female: 23-26"
Weight: Male: 85-115 lb Female: 65-90 lb
Family Rating:
History
The Akita originated on the island of Honshu, a tough area with very frigid winters. These dogs differentiated themselves hunting bear, deer, and wild boar, holding back the game for the hunter. Very early Akita dogs were called matagi-inu, or hunting dogs by the local Japanese. In the late 1800s the Akita breed was employed as a fighting dog. In 1927 the Akita-inu Hozankai Society of Japan was conceived to conserve the original Akita, and in 1931 the Akita breed was selected as one of Japan's natural treasures. The 1st Akita dog arrived in the Americas in 1937, when Helen Keller came back from Japan with one. Following the Second World War, United States. Military personnel also came back home with Akitas from Japan. The Akita's fame developed slowly until it was accepted by the AKC in 1972.
Temperament
the Akita dog breed is bold, self-governing, bullheaded, and tenacious. This breed is devoted to their family and they are reserved with unknown people and animals and can be assertive towards other dogs.
Upkeep
Akitas require long walks or good run or something equal in terms of exercise every day. The Akita's coat calls for grooming approximately once a week to get rid of dead hair, to a greater extent when the dog is shedding.
Health
Health concerns with the Akita is hip dysplasia, pra, elbow dysplasia, pemphigus and gastric torsion. It is recommended that the hips, eyes and elbows be tested on Akitas.
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