History of the breed

The history of this hunting breed goes back more than 4000 years. The clay figures of Akita found in Japan, date back to 2000 B.C. It was believed that possession of an Akita brings longevity, health and happiness to its owner. It is still customary in Japan to give small figurines of Akita when the child is born, and a card with its image when someone is ill in the family. For a long time Akita was considered a national feature of Japan - an integral part of the Japanese culture, along with haiku poetry, tea ceremony or the art of ikebana. Dogs of this breed were not allowed to be taken out of the country.
  
It all changed during the World War II. Akita became an object of an illicit craft. Many dogs were moved illegally in substandard conditions and died as a result. The Japanese government has removed the export prohibition. That is how Akita got to America. The breeding club was organized in the USA in 1956. Americans - the fans of everything large - cultivated dogs with large skeleton by cross-breeding Akita with other larger breeds like German shepherds.This process resulted in a much bigger size of the American Akita compared to its Japanese counterpart.
  
The Japanese were not pleased, and insisted on dividing the breed into Akita-Inu (a thoroughbred Japanese dog), and the American Akita (the breed which was developed on the basis of Japanese Akita with a large share of blood of other non-Japanese breeds). Between 2000 and 2005 the American Akita was referred to as the Big Japanese dog and belonged to the 2nd FCI group - the mollosses . Since January 1st, 2006 was referred to FCI group 5 - the Asian spitz and similar.
  

American Akita

American Akita is a universal breed as it has both hunting and sentry qualities alongside with gentle love to family and children. American Akita demonstrates restraint and independent character. It is very quiet and reminds of laconic Japanese Samurais. Akita never barks without a reason, expresses joy and sadness without squeal, and it fights silently.
  
They say: " the first class watchman " about American Akita in all breed catalogs. And it really possesses outstanding sentry abilities and sense of smell. This large dog will force all strangers to keep aloof from your house. Akita is perfectly trainable, and makes an excellent bodyguard.
  
An interesting feature of this breed that its future owner should know about is the cockiness. Without due training alovely and playful puppy can grow into a fighter. Therefore if you plan on having more than one dog, Akita should come last to avoid problems.The puppy will easily adjust to other pets - dogs, cats, mice or birds - and will respect their right to your attention. But beware if you decide to get another pet when your house is already reigned by an Akita. It will not tolerate a stranger.
  
A well-trained American Akita makes an excellent partner. It is very peaceful and respectful to all members of the family. The dog adjusts well to low temperatures, loves snow very much, and will eagerly play with children in the the snow. In general, there are numerous ways to enjoy this dog. American Akita can support its owner in many kinds of activities. When hunting these brave dogs move quickly and quietly. They are utilized in hunting for wild boars, deer, bears and other animals. In Japan Akita is used by military and police as a search dog and the rescuer on water. In the USA Akita participates in competitions of dogs-bodyguards. This breed is useful everywhere where boldness, endurance, calmness and a balanced character are required. If you get acquainted with Akita, you will definitely become an admirer of this rare breed.