GROUP 6 - UTILITY

History

Originally Japanese dogs were small to medium in size and no large breeds existed. However, since 1603, in the Akita region, Akita Matagis (medium-sized bear-hunting dogs) were used as fighting dogs. From 1868 Akita Matagis were crossed with Tosas and Mastiffs and consequently, the size of this breed increased but characteristics associated with Spitz type were lost.

In 1908 dog fighting was prohibited but this breed was nevertheless preserved and improved as a large Japanese breed.  As a result, nine superior examples of this breed were designated as “Natural Monuments” in 1931.

During World War II (1939-1945), it was common to use dogs as a source of fur for military garments and the police ordered the capture and confiscation of all dogs other than German Shepherd Dogs, which were used for military purposes.  As a result some fanciers tried to circumvent the order by crossbreeding their dogs with German Shepherd Dogs.

When World War II ended, Akitas had been drastically reduced in number and existed as three distinct types; 1) Matagi Akitas, 2) Fighting Akitas, and 3) Shepherd Akitas. This created a very confusing situation in the breed. It was fortunate for the Akita that soon after the war, interest in the Akita as a National Treasure was restored, and steps were taken to assure the breed’s survival. Japanese Akita fanciers then worked toward restoring the original Japanese Akita type, which we see today.

In the late 1940’s and early 1950’s American servicemen stationed in Japan began taking Akitas home to America.  Because many arrived in the United States before the Japanese had refined the breeding stock in Japan, they arrived in America in a variety of types.

These Akitas became the foundation breeding stock for the American Akita as it is known today.  The influence of the German Shepherd Dog and the Mastiff can still be seen in the American Akita, especially in the boning and colouring of the dogs.

In 2013 the ANKC accepted the standard of the Japanese Akita as a separate entity to the American Akita, and after consultation with Akita fanciers and breeders, the decision was made that the Akita would go into our conformation ring as Akita, followed by Akita (Japanese).

Appearance

The Akita American should be large, powerful & alert, with much substance and heavily boned. He stands 66-71cms for dogs and 61-66cms for bitches. 

In contrast to the Akita Japanese which has specific colours, the Akita American can be any colour.

Temperament

He should be dignified, courageous, aloof and tending to show dominance over other dogs. Although this trait is not encouraged, it should be respected. He is loving and loyal to his family.

Health

The Akita is a long living dog for a large breed, living, on average, for 10 yrs. However, it is not unusual for an Akita to live up to 15 years.

Generally a healthy dog, patella & cruciate ligament problems can occur in the breed. Grooming is generally weekly with a wire brush, cleaning ears, eyes and cutting nails.

Suitability

The Akita American is a large, strong dog, and as such requires training. When trained for “house manners” he is very clean and quiet in the home.

The Akita is well suited to live in the home with the family as he does not like to be separated from his family and prefers to be around them. He will guard, but is not a barker.   

The Akita will drop its coat, so extra grooming will then be required to remove the blown coat, with bathing and brushing to make comfortable, until the full coat returns.

Words: Mrs Patricia Hall

Image: Ffire Photography

Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Akita you may have think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Akita and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.