Akita Compatibility

Question
I have a two year old female akita, she is very loving and friendly to those that she is around all the time, (immediate family and mothers three labs) however does not care for "outsiders". She has never bitten a person or another dog, but she does let people and animals that she is not familiar with know that she does not care for them being in her space by growling. I would like to get another dog for companionship for her, but have heard that male akitas are usually very aggressive, can you suggest a breed that is known for being compatible with akitas?

Answer
Bobbie,
Believe it or not I have heard several times that smaller male dogs are a good match for female Akitas.  My friend has a west highland terrier and someone else I know has a shih tzu.  But the shihtzu did get injured during play so I would go with a tougher breed which would be a terrier.  The westie is good, and schnauzer.  They are two of the few terriers that get along with each other as well.  If you want something larger, I would go with a golden retriever.  If none of these dogs appeal to you, let me know and I will research some more for you

nancy