Dog Breeds: Akita

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Akita
History
A breed that is native to Japan, this hunting dog dates all the way back to the 17th century. The name “Akita” comes from the mountain region where the breed originates. There, the Akita was called matagi, or “esteemed dog hunter.” In Japan, the breed is believed to be a symbol of good health, and is known as a loyal defender of the family.
The Akita is the product of generations of selective breeding, and ownership was once limited to members of the Imperial family or Japanese aristocracy. In fact, the Akita was held in such high esteem that special care was taken to protect the purity of the breed, and Japan declared it a national treasure in the 20th Century. The first Akita puppy was introduced to the United States by none other than Helen Keller in 1937, and it gained popularity after World War II, when returning soldiers brought the dog home from Japan.
Appearance
There are two recognized standards of Akita. The American Akita is bigger than the Japanese Akita, reaching up to 28 inches tall and 100 lbs. American Akitas are known to have broad features, strong muscles, and large feet, while the features of the Japanese Akita tend to be narrower and smaller. Both have double coated fur that reaches up to two inches, with a thick undercoat and a straight outer coat. The American Akita’s coloring features a white background with large patches that are black, brown, or brindle, including a mask of color across the face. The Japanese Akita features only reddish or brindle coloring. The American Akita has a broad head, small upright ears, smaller triangular eyes, and a powerful jaw. The tail is full and curled. The Japanese Akita has thinner, more pointed features and almond shaped eyes.
Temperament
There is a reason...

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...e aggressive toward other dogs and wary of strangers, Akitas do best with a fenced in yard where they have space to run around. They do not necessarily do well with other pets in the house, due to their natural hunting instincts and protective nature.

Talents
Akitas were originally bred as resourceful, adaptive, and strong hunting dogs. They have bodies that are built for rough physical terrain, and reputation for being extremely courageous. It is said that Akitas do not back down from a fight. Akitas are extremely strong and fast, yet gentle enough to bring animals back undamaged. Akitas still hunt today.
This is an energetic breed that does well with a great deal of exercise and activity. Akitas are muscular and swift dogs. They can be trained in agility, strength, and other tricks. Because they love to mouth everything, they enjoy fetching and carrying.

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