| No other breed of dog besides the Akita can claim to be
a national monument and treasure! In the early days of the breed in Japan,
only members of royalty were allowed to own an Akita, and the special leashes
used on these dogs revealed the status of the owner. The breed gets its
name from prefecture of Akita, a section of northern Japan in which the
breed was derived through judicious outcrossings of Chow Chows with Japanese
Kari and Tosa dogs. Like these ancestors, the Akita was used for a time
as a fighting dog. They have bravery and great endurance and strength.
Moreover, the Akita was originally valued for their hunting prowess, being
equally able to hunt anything from bears to ducks!
Todays Akita is a picture of power and strength, and they sport
a magnificent plumed tail that is proudly carried curled above their backs.
They have an unending love for work and exercise and are amazingly trainable.
They are still a true working dog and they relish it. Many Akitas are currently
being trained for advanced obedience trial competition and are taking their
share of ribbons.
In the home, the owner of an Akita is blessed with a truly loyal
watchdog and companion. They adapt well to the presence of small children
and will tolerate a reasonable amount of the ear and tail pulling that
sometimes results. In fact, they have been called as lovable as a teddy
bear-but should the occasion arise,
the Akita would defend his home with courage.
The Akitas versatility is making this breed an increasingly popular
show dog and pet. They are not given to excessive barking and fit well
into most any home. Many northern Akita fanciers are even training their
dogs for sled racing- and they are having great success. The combination
of intelligence, trainability and gentleness will go far in making the
Akita a widely accepted and respected dog.
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