Akita: The Faithful and Fearless Japanese Breed

As a lifelong dog lover and Akita owner myself, I‘ve developed a deep respect and admiration for this majestic breed. Hailing from the mountainous regions of Japan, Akitas are known for their unwavering loyalty, courage, and dignity. While they may not be the easiest breed to handle, their devotion and protective nature is unparalleled. If you‘re considering welcoming an Akita into your life, here‘s everything you need to know about these powerful, beautiful dogs.

A Proud History as Hunters and Protectors

Akitas have a rich and fascinating history dating back to 17th century Japan. They were originally bred in Akita prefecture as versatile hunting dogs tasked with tracking and holding large game like bear, boar and deer. Their strength, stamina, and fearless nature made them well-suited for this challenging work.

In addition to being skilled hunters, Akitas were also used as fighting dogs for a period in their history. Dog fighting was popular in Japan in the early 20th century and unfortunately, many Akitas were fought against other breeds. Once the gruesome sport was banned in 1908, Akita fanciers worked to restore the breed to a family companion and guardian.

During World War II, Akitas faced another dark chapter. Many were killed for their fur to make military garments and others perished due to war-related food shortages. After the war, American servicemen fell in love with the breed and brought some of the first Akitas to the United States.

In 1931, the Akita was designated as a Japanese national natural monument. In 1967, commemorative postage stamps featuring famous Akitas were issued to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Akita Dog Preservation Society. Today, the Akita is considered a national treasure in Japan and a source of great pride.

Legendary Loyalty: Hachiko and Beyond

One of the most enduring symbols of Akita loyalty is Hachiko, an Akita owned by a university professor in Tokyo in the 1920s. Every day, Hachiko would greet his owner at the train station after work. One day, the professor suffered a fatal brain hemorrhage at work and never returned home.

For the next nine years until his own death, Hachiko faithfully returned to the train station each day to wait for his deceased owner. His incredible display of devotion captured the hearts of the Japanese people. Hachiko became a national celebrity and a bronze statue was erected in his honor at Shibuya Station, where it remains a popular meeting spot today.

Hachiko‘s legacy has inspired numerous books, movies, and even an annual ceremony honoring his loyalty. Each year on March 8th, Hachiko‘s devotion is celebrated at Tokyo‘s Shibuya railroad station where hundreds gather to pay their respects and lay flowers at his statue.

This same steadfast loyalty makes Akitas exceptional guard dogs and family protectors. Their keen senses, alertness, and natural suspicion of strangers means they‘re always on the lookout for potential threats. Akitas have been successfully employed as police K9s, military sentries, and search and rescue dogs.

Akita Statistics and Popularity

According to the American Kennel Club, the Akita is the 47th most popular breed out of 195 recognized breeds in the United States as of 2021. While not as common as Labrador Retrievers or German Shepherds, Akitas have a dedicated following among those who appreciate their unique combination of strength, beauty, and loyalty.

Some key Akita statistics:

  • Average lifespan: 10-13 years
  • Average height: Males 26-28 inches, Females 24-26 inches
  • Average weight: Males 85-130 pounds, Females 70-110 pounds
  • Coat colors: White, brindle, sesame, red fawn, black masks
  • AKC breed popularity: Ranked 47th in 2021
  • Original purpose: Hunting and guarding in Japan

Health and Care: Keeping Your Akita Happy and Healthy

As a large breed, Akitas are predisposed to certain health issues. Responsible breeding practices and health screenings have helped reduce the incidence of genetic problems, but it‘s still important for Akita owners to be aware of potential concerns.

Some of the most common health issues seen in Akitas include:

  • Hip dysplasia (affects an estimated 13.6% of Akitas according to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
  • Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus)
  • Sebaceous adenitis (skin disease)
  • Autoimmune diseases

To help prevent health problems and extend your Akita‘s lifespan, it‘s important to maintain a proper diet and weight, provide regular exercise, and stay up-to-date on preventive care like vaccinations and parasite control. Akitas typically need 30-60 minutes of moderate exercise per day, preferably split into a couple walks or play sessions.

As heavy shedders, Akitas require regular brushing to manage their thick double coats. They shed moderately year-round and profusely during shedding season. Weekly brushing is a must to prevent matting and remove loose undercoat. Akitas are fastidious self-groomers and rarely need baths unless they get into something messy.

Akitas can also be prone to dental issues, so it‘s important to brush their teeth regularly and provide safe chew toys to help remove plaque and tartar buildup. Nail trims, ear cleaning, and other basic grooming should also be part of an Akita‘s care routine.

Training and Socialization: Starting Early is Key

As an owner of multiple Akitas over the years, I can attest that these dogs require a confident, consistent leader who isn‘t afraid to set boundaries. Akitas are highly intelligent but also independent and stubborn at times. They won‘t respond well to harsh corrections or an overly permissive approach.

The key to successfully training an Akita is starting early and using positive reinforcement methods. Socialization should begin as soon as your Akita puppy comes home and continue throughout their life. Exposing them to a variety of people, places, animals, and situations can help prevent fear and aggression down the road.

Akitas have a strong prey drive and are prone to chasing small animals, so a sturdy, secure fence is a must for any Akita owner. They also tend to be territorially aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex. Early socialization and training can help temper these instincts, but Akitas are usually happiest as the only dog in the household.

While Akitas are typically gentle and tolerant with children in their own family, they may not be as accepting of a child‘s friends or neighborhood kids. Always supervise interactions between Akitas and children and teach kids how to respectfully interact with the dog.

Living with an Akita: What to Expect

Akitas are not the right breed for everyone, but for experienced dog owners willing to put in the time and effort, they can be incredibly rewarding companions. As a former Akita breeder and lifelong enthusiast myself, here are some of the questions I‘m most frequently asked about living with this unique breed:

Q: Are Akitas good with kids?
A: Akitas that are raised with children and properly socialized can be very gentle and protective of the kids in their own family. However, they may not tolerate rough play or teasing from strange children. Interactions between Akitas and kids should always be supervised.

Q: Can Akitas be trained to get along with cats/other dogs?
A: While it‘s possible for Akitas to coexist peacefully with other pets, it requires careful introduction, training and management. Akitas have a high prey drive and may view cats or small dogs as something to chase. With dogs of the same sex, Akitas can be territorially aggressive. In general, Akitas are happiest as the only pet in the household.

Q: How much exercise do Akitas need?
A: As a large working breed, Akitas require daily exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. A minimum of 30-60 minutes per day split into a couple walks or playtimes is ideal. Akitas also love to have a job to do, whether it‘s patrolling the yard, attending obedience classes, or participating in activities like hiking.

Q: Are Akitas aggressive?
A: Any dog can develop aggression without proper training and socialization, and Akitas have a higher potential to become aggressive in the wrong hands. With a firm, consistent, and loving approach, Akitas can be gentle, well-mannered companions. However, they retain strong guarding instincts and are naturally suspicious towards strangers.

Q: Do Akitas bark a lot?
A: Compared to some breeds, Akitas are relatively quiet dogs. They don‘t tend to be excessive barkers unless they perceive a threat or are trying to alert their owner to something. Some Akitas may develop a habit of barking out of boredom or for attention if their needs aren‘t being met.

Famous Akitas in Popular Culture

Beyond Hachiko, Akitas have captured the public‘s imagination through their representation in pop culture. Here are just a few famous fictional and real-life Akitas:

  • Hachiko: A Dog‘s Story – This 2009 Hollywood film starring Richard Gere is based on the true story of Hachiko, the loyal Akita who waited for his deceased owner at a Tokyo train station for nine years.
  • Wasao – Known as "the happiest dog in Japan", this big white Akita found abandoned as a puppy became a symbol of resilience and hope for a town devastated by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
  • Yeller – The title character of the 2009 horror movie "Old Yeller" is actually played by an Akita named Cody.
  • Goro – Voiced by Sam Elliott, this sage Akita is the narrator and spirit guide in the animated film "Prey".
  • President Vladimir Putin‘s Akita – Russian President Vladimir Putin has owned several Akitas gifted to him by Japanese officials, including Yume, who famously frightened German Chancellor Angela Merkel during a meeting.

From guarding Japanese royalty to providing loyal companionship to their families, Akitas have a truly remarkable history and cultural significance. Their intelligence, courage, and unwavering devotion set them apart as a truly special breed.

Final Thoughts

Owning an Akita is not for the faint of heart, but for those who appreciate their independent spirit and protective nature, the rewards are immeasurable. As an owner, you‘ll need to provide plenty of socialization, consistent training, and a loving, stable home environment. In return, your Akita will be a fiercely devoted guardian and friend for life.

If you‘re considering adding an Akita to your family, be sure to do your research and find a responsible, experienced breeder committed to improving the breed. Reach out to local breed clubs and Akita owners to learn more and see if the breed is a good fit for your lifestyle. With the right preparation and dedication, you‘ll be ready to welcome one of these magnificent dogs into your heart and home.

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