The Akita is the largest of the Japanese purebred dogs and takes it's name from the Akita Prefecture located at the northern end of the island of Honshu, where the breed originated. Bred for hunting in the early 17th century, the Akita gradually became a true "All Purpose" dog. They can and have been trained to meet and carry out the individual duties and responsibilities that other dogs were bred to do exclusively. 

The Akita is large and powerful; the males standing 26 to 28 inches or more at the shoulder, and weigh from 110 to 140 pounds. The females are shorter in height and lighter in weight. The coat is double, as are those of other Northern Breeds, although the outer guard hairs are shorter in length. The Akita will shed into a coat as light or heavy as his environment requires. The tail is carried proudly over the back in a three-quarter, full or double curl.  Colors run from pure white, through fawn, red, dark grey, black, brindle and pinto. A two tone coat which is very attractive is the Kuro-Goma (black over silver or fawn undercoat.) Akita's seldom need bathing as the rather oily guard hairs will even shed mud once it has dried. It is very rare for either the undercoat or skin to become dirty. 

In recent times, many of the talents possessed by the Akita have been recognized and utilized. His intelligence has made him a great success as a seeing eye dog and a guard dog, and his ability to pull heavy loads has made him a superior working dog. His strength and courage make him an outstanding hunter; and two full grown Akita's have been reported pulling down black bear. Most Akita owners in North America were attracted to the breed because of its striking appearance, its noble personality and the ease with which it adapts to different situations. When given the opportunity the Akita will welcome a large yard to run in; he can be perfectly content as a house dog with only daily walks outside. he is easy to care for, as his coat require little or no brushing and because his is not a highly active dog, he is inexpensive to feed. 

Akita's were first brought into North America shortly after World War II by the American servicemen. since July of 1956 the Akita Club of America, Inc. has been working to do everything possible to improve and advance the breed. The American Kennel Club recognized the Akita as a breed, April 4th, 1973, and the Canadian Kennel Club recognized the Akita, January 1st, 1975. Being of an extremely stable temperament, the Akita is an enchanting family companion and probably the most fearless protector that can be found. 

If it were necessary to describe the Akita in one word, "dignity" would suffice, for it is this concept that the breed embodies. Whether in proud stance or no-nonsense movement, the breed's dignified presence is its most distinct quality. A proud and regal animal, the Akita is a pleasure to see. 

     Intelligence 
     Fearless, yet calm 
     Majestic appearance (Creates the impression of instant grandeur) 
     Inspires respect immediately 
     Coat requires very little care (The Akita is a naturally clean animal) 
     Adaptable (The Akita is what breeders term "An Easy Keeper") 
     Quiet by nature 
     Not a common breed

Akita's are double coated. The undercoat is a thick cotton like coat that thins out during summer but is very heavy during the winter months, enabling the Akita to withstand extreme cold. The outer coat is a coarse hair that stands out like needles. Akita's come in a wide variety of colors. Included here are some of the Japanese terms of the different colors. 

   1.Aka (Red) 
   2.Shiro (White) 
   3.Kuro Tora (Dark Brindle or Kark Cat Stripped) 
   4.Kuro (Black) 
   5.Kuro Goma (Black tipped over Silver or Fawn) 
   6.Gina Goma (Silver Tipped) 
   7.Aka Goma Han (Red Tip Pinto) 
   8.No Aka (Dark Red) 
   9.Kuro Goma Han (Black Tip Pinto) 

The Akita, the Dog that possesses the  Heart of the lion, the Look of the Bear, and the Agility of a Cat.