About the Akita

Breed History 

    The Akita is a large spitz dog breed originating from the Akita prefecture of Japan. The breed goes back nearly 400 years in origin, with many ups and downs in breed population. The breed was originally bred for fighting as well as hunting large game like bear, wild boar and deer. The breed was also occasionally used for sled work and as a companion and protector of children and home. 

   The American style of Akita came about after WW2 when the breed's numbers were in decline and some specimens were brought over to America most famously by Hellen Keller but also the American servicemen who found an admiration for the breed while in Japan. It was specifically Akitas from the Dewa line, known for having more attirbutes associated with mastiffs and shepherds than the other Akita lines, that were popular in America and over time more fanciers and breeders became involved in the breed. 

   The Akita Club of America was established in 1956 and the AKC accepted the breed in 1972. Due to issues with pedigree recognition between the AKC and JKC there was no new Akitas being brought over, solidifying the phenotypical differences between the American Akita and the Japanese Akita Inu. In 2022 the Canadian Kennel Club recognized the Japanese Akita as it's own breed in the Non-Sporting Group, leaving the American style Akita as a separate breed in the Working Group. 

Appearance

    All breed standards describe the Akita as large, powerful and alert. The Akita is a breed of much substance, with heavy bone and a regal and dignified appearance. The breed has a thick double coat that can be any colour other than merle, including white, brindle and pinto. Akitas have a large curled tail that is carried over the back that balances their broad head. Their eyes are small, deep set, triangular in shape, and dark in colour. Their ears are a characteristic of the breed, being small in relation to their head, triangular and carried slightly forward, in line with the back of their neck. 

Temperament

    The Akita is known for his 'cat-like' temperament. They should be alert, responsive, reserved with strangers, and dignified. Akitas are known first and foremost for their loyalty. Akitas are often independant but can be quite silly and playful with their owners and people they trust. They bond closely with their owner, and can be protective. Akitas are generally quiet and bark infrequently. They can be intolerant/aggressive towards other dogs, particularly of the same sex and do show some prey drive. They are a breed that requires respect and desires to feel a part of the family. They need early and frequent socialization as their aloof and protective nature can make then naturally wary of strangers and new experiences if not socialized appropriately. 

Health

    The breed is not an overly unhealthy one but there are still some health concerns to be aware of when looking at getting an Akita. Most health concerns found in the breed are avoidable by being responsible with where you are getting your puppy from. Some health concerns seen in the breed are: 

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Sebaceous Adenitis (SA)
• Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV/Bloat)
• Patellar Luxation 
• Hypothyroidism 
• Ocular Diseases (Specifically Entropian)