It is possible to distinguish between two different types of Akita Dog: American and Japanese. The Japanese version is available in fewer colors and is smaller in size than the American version. They are, aside from this, very similar dogs with very similar personalities, temperaments, and care requirements. They are also very similar to each other.
Description of the Akita Dog Characteristics
Akita puppies are exceedingly adorable, and they resemble small balls of fluff in appearance. However, even though this large breed does not reach full maturity until roughly 18 months old, they retain their playful and puppy-like characteristics far into their adult years!
Appearance
One of the most noticeable differences between the Japanese Akita and the American Akita is their appearance. Although it is smaller than the Americans, the Japanese can have a fox-like appearance and be extremely strong, despite its tiny size. They are frequently regarded as cheerful, and their black eyes, nose, and lips stand out. Their ears are perpendicular to the top of their heads and stand upright.
Coat
The Akita Dog has a double coat that is both thick and dense. Its rough and hard outer coat protects them from the elements, and its softer undercoat helps in keeping them warm in Japan’s harsh winter weather. Unfortunately, they do necessitate a significant amount of grooming. Grooming will be discussed in greater depth later in this chapter.
Color
Most people associate the Japanese Akita with its signature red and white coloring scheme. They usually have white markings on their face in the shape of a mask, along with patterns on their chest and front paws. They can, however, be found in a variety of coat colors, including golden, white, red, black brindle, and silver brindle, among others.
Temperament
The Akita dog breed has a lovely temperament – if they are familiar with you, that is! This pup is devoted to its family above everything else and will be kind, kind, affectionate, and playful with every member of their household. It should be noted that they have a long history as guard dogs and have retained this trait, which means they are frequently reserved with strangers.
Akita Dog Facts and Information
- Many years before the Akita was given an “official” breed name, they were referred to as “snow country dogs.” Breeders trace the breed’s origins back to Japan’s snowy, rural, hilly Akita and Odate prefectures, where they were employed to hunt wild boar, elk, and the little Yezo bear. In the town of Odate, there is a museum dedicated to the breed.
- When the weather grows colder, the dogs appear to have a “turbo” button that they press to increase their speed. During the winter months, if there is snow on the ground, they will spend the entire day outside hunting rabbits, squirrels, and other small game in a securely enclosed yard until they are forced to return inside. The consensus is that they prefer colder weather, enjoy eating snow, and rub themselves in it as a snow “scrub.”
- Akitas are members of the American Kennel Club’s Working Group. Several hundred therapy dogs have been registered, and some have earned the AKC Therapy Dog title. These dogs can be seen visiting nursing homes and hospitals, as well as participating in reading programs with children in schools and libraries, among other places. While Akitas are most commonly associated with the conformation ring, they can also compete in other canine sports, including obedience and agility.
- Akitas have webbed toes, which aid them in walking on snow by more effectively distributing their weight. Because this “ice picks” assist them in climbing out of freezing water, they have traditionally retained their front dewclaws.
- Akitas are affectionate with their families and build close ties, despite their independence and sometimes aloofness toward others. Not everyone is cut out to share their lives with one of these magnificent canines. But it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those who do to share their lives with a national asset that is unlike any other.
- The Akita’s plush tail, generally curled over his back, is his distinguishing feature. Each dog’s tail is distinct from the others. When you look at many of Akita’s tails, you see that no two are alike.
- The Akita has a spiritual value that cannot be overstated. Upon the birth of a child in Japan, the proud parents are generally presented with a small statue of an Akita, which represents good health, happiness, and long life.
- Akita’s own country has classified him as a national treasure. At one point, Akita ownership was confined to members of the Imperial family and the governing nobility of Japan. The Akita’s care and food were meticulously described in an elaborate ceremony, and unique leashes were used to symbolize the Akita’s rank and status as his proprietor.
- It is common for an Akita to groom himself like a cat, and housebreaking is usually not an issue.
