The main difference between the Akita Inu and its American counterpart mostly consists in the color accepted by dog associations. This is why some specialists do not even consider that there should be two Akita breeds but rather only one, to include both the Inu and the American Akita.
Originally from the Akita Prefecture in Japan, this dog reaches 24-26 inches (61-66 cm), both as male and as female and is slightly longer than it is tall. The Japanese Akita weighs 75 110 lbs (34-54 kg) on average and can live up to 15 years. Its head is triangular and so are its dark brown eyes. Its nose is usually black as are its lips, spiced up by its pink tongue. In the pure-breed Akita dogs, the tail coils over the dogs back.
The dog is one of Japans seven natural monuments. In some areas, it is even considered sacred or at least a good luck charm. It was initially used as a hunting dog, since it is fearless and can easily obey orders. However, it should be trained since its early years and its master needs to prove to the Akita Inu that he is the leader of the pack, in order to have a disciplined and docile dog. In the absence of proper training, this dog may show aggressiveness to other animals and pets. With all these in mind, some experts do not advise owners to have an Akita Inu as their first pet dog.
Despite such features, once it understands who makes the rules around the house, the dog proves to be very loyal. A famous Japanese story speaks about an Akita dog that continued to wait at the railway station for its master to come from work during the 30s, nine years after the master had died of a stroke. The faithfulness of the dog made it be named the national Japanese symbol of loyalty and a statue was erected to honor its commitment to its master. Later on, as the breed became more and more famous, a museum was built in Japan for Japanese Akitas and they became one of the seven natural monuments of their native country.
However, due to their propensity to becoming pack leaders, the Akita dogs need to be properly supervised in the presence of children or pets, as the former may misunderstand the latters playful moves and may try to prove their place in the hierarchy by biting. With the appropriate behavior towards this dog, it can be a fine and beloved pet. Building a relationship with it requires work both ways, but the results are worthwhile, as the dog can be playful and patient and a wonderful walking companion.
A rare sight in many countries of the world, the Akita Inu will draw attention to itself and its master, as a good and protective friend.
