Erin Hotovy - The Complete Guide to Akitas

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Publication Data

Akitas

The Complete Guide to Aki tas First edition.

Summary: Successfully raising an Akita Dog from puppy to old age Pr ovided by publisher.

ISB N: 978-1-952069-92-5

[1. Akitas No n-Fiction] I. Title.

This book has been written with the published intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter included. While every reasonable precaution has been taken in preparation of this book the author and publisher expressly disclaim responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained inside. The techniques and suggestions are to be used at the readers discretion and are not to be considered a substitute for professional veterinary care. If you suspect a medical problem with your dog, consul t your veterinarian.

Desig n by Sorin Rdulescu

First pap erback edition, 2020

The Complete Guide to Akitas

Erin Hotovy

Chapter 1

Akita Basics

What is an Akita?

T he Akita is a sturdy, double-coated dog that originates from Japan. Once favored as fierce hunters, todays society sees Akitas as companions and as protectors of family. Their playful personality adds to the loyalty they have for their owner. However, do not be surprised if this breed is not interested in associating with strangers or other animals; they can be wary of unknown people and places, and they are sometimes aggressive toward other dogs, especially of the same sex. These tendencies can be rectified with socialization and with positive reinforcement if begun as a puppy.

There are two recognized varieties of Akitathe Japanese Akita, or Akita-Inu, and the Akita bred in America. While these dogs come from the same initial stock, there are some significant differences in how they have developed, most obviously in size. Japanese-variety Akitas typically weigh in at around 55-75 pounds; those bred in America are a bit larger, usually between 70-130 pounds. There are also small differences in eye shape, the positioning of the ears, and the width of the skull.

Neither variety of Akita is small enough to make a good lapdog, though they may try and convince you otherwise. These are smart, active companions, who take well to consistent and training, but without proper training, they can become disrespectful and d ifficult to control.

This chapter supplies information on the Akita breed, so you can make a knowledgeable decision on whether or not this is the right breed of dog for you. Once you have determined an Akita will be a great addition to your family, you will find the remainder of this book to be a step-by-step guide for caring for thi s incredible breed!

The History of the Akita

This is one of the oldest-known dog breeds, developed several hundred years ago from native Japanese dogs called Matagi-Inu. Akitas, named for the Akita prefecture in Japan where they originated, were employed as hunting dogs and property guardians as early as the 1500s. These powerful, fearless dogs were particularly adept at hunting large game, including boar, elk, and Japanese black bear. As hunting declined in the nineteenth century, these majestic animals were often relegated to fighting in dog fights. The beginning of the twentieth century in Japan brought war, rabies outbreaks, and famine, causing canine populations to drop dramatically, especially in large, fur-bearing dog s such as the Akita.

It was during this troubled time that Hachik, perhaps the most famous of all Akitas, was acquired by Hidesabur Ueno, a professor at Tokyo Imperial University. Hachik was a loyal pet who faithfully accompanied his owner to the train station each morning, then returned to escort him home in the late afternoon. One day in May 1925, Professor Ueno suffered a brain hemorrhage while teaching. Although Hachiks owner never returned, the loyal canine continued returning to the station at 3 p.m. every afternoon, hoping to meet his beloved owner. It was a vigil the dog kept for nearly a decade until he passed away in March 1935. Today, several statues of Hachik commemorate the loyal dog in Japan, and his story has been shared with the rest of the world through books, te levision, and film.

The Akita in America

On a visit to Japan in the late 1930s, Helen Keller visited the Akita district in Japan after hearing the story of Hachik. She was enamored by the breeds loyalty, and during her visit, she was gifted an Akita puppy of her own. Helens pup, Kamikaze-Go, and his successor, Kenzan-Go, were the only known Akita breed dogs residing in America until the end of World War II. American soldiers that had been stationed in Japan during World War II returned with Akitas, and the bree ds popularity grew.

In the 1950s, Akitas were bred on American soil for the first time, but American breeders and Japanese breeders had differing opinions on what the ideal Akita should look like. American breeders favored larger dogs with wider, bear-like heads as guard dogs. Japanese breeders, in an attempt to recreate the standards of the original Akita, preferred a more lightly built frame with a fox-like face. The differences between the two were substantial enough for the UKC, AKC, and FCI to each list separate breed standards for both the American and the Japanese varieties of Akita.

Physical Characteristics

Akitas are large dogs that stand between 24 and 28 inches tall and have stout, muscular bodies. Like many cold-weather breeds, they have a typical Spitz-type appearance, with erect, triangular ears, pointed muzzles, and bushy tails that curl up over their backs. They tend to have a regal and dignified bearing with a confi dent, powerful gait.

The Akita prefecture, where this breed was developed, is near the northern tip of Honsh islanda cold northern region characterized by tall, snowy mountains. Akitas have thick, bushy coats with a dense layer of soft underfur to protect them from the freezing temperatures and bitter winds. Their coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Akitas of any color are acceptable by American breed standards, but Japanese Akita standards are restricted to white, red fawn, brindle, and sesame. The dogs often have masks, which is when their face is a different color than their predominant coat color, and most sport urajiro markings, a white or cream color on the underside of the jaw, neck, chest, and belly, as well as the sides of the muzzles and the inside of the legs.