Akita History and Breeder Information

The Akita, also known as the Akita Inu or Akita-ken, is a large
Japanese dog breed. They are named after Akita Precture, which
is a region in Northern Japan. In Japan, the Akita is usually
referred to as Akita-ken. ‘Ken’ means ‘dog’ is Japanese as does
‘inu.’ Male Akitas usually stand 24 to 28 inches tall and weight
approximately 120 pounds. Females usually weigh about 100
pounds. Akitas can be black, brindle, white, fawn, or any
combination or variety of these colors. Akita puppies and
teens look very similar to Shiba Inus.

Originally, Akitas were bred as a hound dog to round up large
game animals throughout the mountains of Japan. Like many
hounds, the Akitas disposition is quite complacent and
easygoing. While Akitas historically have been used as hounds,
the AKC has put them in the Working Group. Akitas only bark when
prompted to and are generally very quiet dogs. Relative to other
large dogs, Akitas don’t require as much exercise which makes
them very good house dogs.

Much like the Shiba Inu and other Japanese breeds, the Akita
grew nearly instinct during World War II mainly due to lack of
food. After the war, the popularity of Akitas exploded as they
were generally liked by the occupying forces in Japan because
they were by far the largest Japanese breed. Their popularity
vastly grew in the coming decades all over the world.

If socialized well, Akitas make agile, friendly, and loyal
companions. If not socialized and left alone, they tend to have
personality issues that can make them unfriendly dogs. This
obviously isn’t unique to Akitas, however due to their pack
oriented background; an isolated Akita can develop negative
personality traits more noticeable than other dogs. If you raise you’re
Akita with children in a family environment, they will make an
outstanding house pet for anyone.