Akita History
The noble Akita goes back at least 1,000 years as a human companion and helper. Originally, these dogs were bred to serve as hunting companions. All of their original “wolf” skills, from finding prey all the way through killing it, were considered desirable traits in those days, because hunting was done with bow and arrow, and the prey large and fierce. Akitas were prized because they were nearly fearless in the face of bear and wild boar, and they were extremely loyal to their owners. These traits are still true today. What today’s pet owners sometimes call “stubbornness” was then viewed as persistence and fearlessness – both very important qualities.
In the Middle Ages, the breed remained largely unchanged in character, but the Akita’s job changed. The Emperor of Japan and his Samurai soldiers used Akitas as guardians of their people and property. Only royalty could own them. The original traits of loyalty and fearlessness were again invaluable, because to do these jobs, Akitas had to think for themselves. Other breeds were needed to do only specific tasks (point, flush, retrieve), but the Akita was expected to be self-directed and persistent. Strong will and loyalty continue to characterize this noble breed today, because the genes for these traits were maintained and valued, generation after generation.
During the first half of the 20th century, Akitas came on harder times. Some were used inhumanely for fighting, while during World War II, many others were killed for their coats. Luckily, the breed was saved by a few devoted people, who hid dogs in safety at their own personal risk. They remained, and remain, a true working breed.
Akitas didn’t come to the U.S. until 1937, when the Emperor of Japan made a gift of two puppies to Helen Keller. They have become increasingly popular, though often misunderstood. There are now two recognized lines – the Japanese Akita and the American Akita, though both have the original genes. It’s no wonder that today’s Akitas are just as strong, confident and loyal to their families as the early litters, a millennium ago.
Interesting Facts
Before Akitas had an “official” breed name they were referred to simply as “snow country dogs.” The breed originated from the snowy, rural, mountainous region of Japan, Akita and Odate, where they were used to hunt boar, elk, and the small Yezo bear. There is a museum in Odate devoted to the breed.
Akitas have webbed toes to help walk on snow by distributing their weight more effectively. Historically, they keep their front dew claws because these “ice picks” help them climb out of icy water.
When the weather turns cooler the dogs seem to have a “turbo” button that switches on. If there is snow on the ground, they will stay out all day hunting rabbit, squirrel, and other small game, in a securely fenced yard until relegated to come inside the house. It is safe to say they prefer colder weather, love eating snow, and rolling in it as a snow “scrub.”
The Akita is designated as a national treasure in his native country. At one time, Akita ownership was restricted to the Imperial family and the ruling aristocracy. Caring and feeding of the Akita were detailed in elaborate ceremony and special leashes were used to denote the Akita's rank and the standing of his owner.
There is a spiritual significance attached to the Akita. When a child is born in Japan, the proud family will usually receive a small statue of an Akita, signifying health, happiness, and a long life.
The famous deaf, blind author and political activist, Helen Keller, is credited with bringing the first Akita into the United States in 1937. She was said to have been inspired by the legendary Hachiko, the loyal dog who became world famous for waiting nine years at a train station in hopes his dead owner would return. Keller found the dogs to be “gentle, companionable, and trusty.”
An Akita’s trademark is the plush tail that typically curls over his back. Each dog's tailset is unique. When you see a group of Akitas tails, very few look the same.
An Akita will groom himself like a cat, is clean, and housebreaking is usually not a problem.
Akitas are members of the AKC Working Group. Several hundred have been registered as therapy dogs and some have obtained the AKC Therapy Dog title and can be seen visiting nursing homes and hospitals, and doing reading programs with children at schools and libraries. While most often seen in the conformation ring, there are also some Akitas in other dog sports, such as obedience and agility.
Independent and sometimes aloof with strangers, Akitas are affectionate with their families and form strong bonds. Highly intelligent, strong-willed, and proud, the Akita responds best to respectful commands and positive-training techniques that rely on motivation rather than force.
Facts of Owning an Akita
Not everyone has what it takes to live with one of these majestic dogs. It is a dedicated commitment. The Akita is never to be considered a pet. You will ever own an Akita. Rather the Akita will become part of the family. A bond like no other will be formed and the Akita will protect and guard that family forever. Having an Akita as part of the family is a great responsibility to be cherished. An Akita is not like any dog you have ever had the privilege of knowing before. The Akita is independent and will never be a dog for everyone, but for those who do have what it takes, it is an experience like none other, a chance to share your life with a national treasure.
