| Named for a town on the northern Japanese island | | | | to medium length lies close to the body. |
| of Honshu, the Akita was a sporting dog of the noble | | | | In Japan the all white Akita is revered. In the United |
| houses. Each Shogun kept a kennel of the big dogs | | | | States and Britain parti-colors and brindles are not |
| to hunt deer, bear and boar. It was forbidden to | | | | only allowed, they are preferred. These coat varieties |
| speak to the dogs or about them except in a special | | | | are not permissible at FCI sponsored shows, which |
| language called "dog words".Good examples of the | | | | are governed by the standard accepted by the dog's |
| Akita were jealously guarded and it was not until | | | | native Japan. |
| after World War II that any appreciable number left | | | | Moderate grooming. |
| their homeland. They were accepted for registration | | | | Not an excessive shedder.TIPS:The Akita was |
| in the American Kennel Club in 1973.BODY TYPE:A | | | | officially declared a national treasure in Japan in 1931. |
| powerful looking dog with a distinctive, bear-like | | | | The first Akita in the United States was a gift to |
| expression. | | | | Helen Keller from the Japanese people. He was |
| Height: 24-28 inches (at shoulder) | | | | named Kamikaze but she always referred to him as |
| Weight: 75-110 pounds | | | | "her angel in fur." |
| The tail is set high and curls forward over the back. | | | | In 1995 the already popular breed gained even more |
| It is never altered. | | | | attention for its part in the Nicole Brown Simpson |
| The ears are erect and are not altered. | | | | murder case.HEALTH CONCERNS:Subject to hip |
| Bones are very thick and strong.PERSONALITY:An | | | | dysplasia |
| aggressive breed that is not for first-time dog | | | | Possible congenital eye defects |
| owners. | | | | Subject to hypothyroidism |
| Not trustworthy around other dogs or cats. | | | | Allergic skin diseaseFor more information: |
| Suitable for children only if raised with them. | | | | Akita |
| A natural guard and very possessive of both its | | | | Dog BreedsPlease also visit for all of your dog supply |
| family and property.COAT:Thick, double coat of short | | | | and dog informational needs. |